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What Is the Difference Between Air, Water, And Magnetic Rowing Machines?

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5 min read
What Is the Difference Between Air, Water, And Magnetic Rowing Machines? image

Best Rowing Machines to Buy in September 2025

1 YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine 350 LB Weight Capacity - Rower Machine for Home Use with LCD Monitor, Tablet Holder and Comfortable Seat Cushion-New Version

YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine 350 LB Weight Capacity - Rower Machine for Home Use with LCD Monitor, Tablet Holder and Comfortable Seat Cushion-New Version

  • PROVEN RELIABILITY: TRUSTED BY OVER 3 MILLION FAMILIES FOR 20+ YEARS.

  • SILENT WORKOUTS: ENJOY A NOISE-FREE EXPERIENCE WITH OUR DUAL SILENT SYSTEM.

  • QUICK SETUP: ASSEMBLE IN JUST 25 MINUTES WITH EASY-TO-FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS.

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$199.99 $299.99
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YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine 350 LB Weight Capacity - Rower Machine for Home Use with LCD Monitor, Tablet Holder and Comfortable Seat Cushion-New Version
2 Water Rowing Machine for Home Use, WENOKER Wooden Foldable Rower Machine with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Large Water Tank & Comfortable Seat for Immersive Water Rower, 350LBS Weight Capacity

Water Rowing Machine for Home Use, WENOKER Wooden Foldable Rower Machine with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Large Water Tank & Comfortable Seat for Immersive Water Rower, 350LBS Weight Capacity

  • ENGAGE 90% OF MUSCLES: ADJUST WATER TANK FOR TAILORED RESISTANCE WORKOUTS.

  • STYLISH & SPACE-SAVING: FOLDS 180°; LOOKS LIKE FURNITURE WHEN STORED.

  • DURABLE & USER-FRIENDLY: SOLID WOOD BUILD SUPPORTS 350LBS, FITS ALL HEIGHTS.

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$399.99 $499.99
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Water Rowing Machine for Home Use, WENOKER Wooden Foldable Rower Machine with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Large Water Tank & Comfortable Seat for Immersive Water Rower, 350LBS Weight Capacity
3 Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine - PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage

Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine - PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage

  • SECURE DEVICE HOLDER: KEEP SMARTPHONES/TABLETS IN VIEW DURING WORKOUTS.

  • ADJUSTABLE & ERGONOMIC DESIGN: COMFORT FOR ALL USERS WITH A 14 SEAT HEIGHT.

  • PERFORMANCE MONITOR 5: TRACK YOUR PROGRESS WITH BLUETOOTH AND ANT+ CONNECTIVITY.

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$990.00
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine - PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
4 Merach Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rower Machine for Home, 16 Levels of Quiet Resistance, Dual Slide Rail with Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible with LCD Monitor, Q1S

Merach Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rower Machine for Home, 16 Levels of Quiet Resistance, Dual Slide Rail with Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible with LCD Monitor, Q1S

  • INTERACTIVE MERACH APP FOR ENHANCED ROWING EXPERIENCE!
  • ULTRA-QUIET MAGNETIC FLYWHEEL ENSURES PEACEFUL WORKOUTS.
  • DUAL SLIDE RAIL DESIGN FOR STABILITY & COMFORT WHILE ROWING.
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$239.99 $259.99
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Merach Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rower Machine for Home, 16 Levels of Quiet Resistance, Dual Slide Rail with Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible with LCD Monitor, Q1S
5 Hartwares Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machines with 77 LBS High Resistance, 16 Levels Adjustable, Quiet Rower Machine for Home Use App Compatible, Max 300 LBS Weight Capacity

Hartwares Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machines with 77 LBS High Resistance, 16 Levels Adjustable, Quiet Rower Machine for Home Use App Compatible, Max 300 LBS Weight Capacity

  • WHISPER-QUIET OPERATION: ENJOY WORKOUTS AT HOME WITHOUT DISTURBING OTHERS!

  • 16 RESISTANCE LEVELS: PERFECT FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS, FROM BEGINNERS TO PROS!

  • EASY ASSEMBLY & STORAGE: SET UP IN 30 MINS AND SAVE 70% SPACE WHEN STORED!

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$149.99
Hartwares Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machines with 77 LBS High Resistance, 16 Levels Adjustable, Quiet Rower Machine for Home Use App Compatible, Max 300 LBS Weight Capacity
6 WENOKER Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Upgraded 32-Levels Quiet Resistance with Smart Electronic Knob, 350 LBS Weight Capacity, Compact Rower Machine Easy Assembly, App Supported

WENOKER Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Upgraded 32-Levels Quiet Resistance with Smart Electronic Knob, 350 LBS Weight Capacity, Compact Rower Machine Easy Assembly, App Supported

  • 32 STRONG MAGNETIC RESISTANCE LEVELS FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS
  • REAL-TIME FITNESS TRACKING WITH SMART LCD DISPLAY
  • QUIET, SPACE-SAVING DESIGN FOR HOME AND APARTMENT USE
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$299.99 $399.99
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WENOKER Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Upgraded 32-Levels Quiet Resistance with Smart Electronic Knob, 350 LBS Weight Capacity, Compact Rower Machine Easy Assembly, App Supported
7 YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Dual Air & Magnetic Resistance with 8-Level, Smart APP, Rotatable Device Holder, Ergonomic Seat, and Easy Storage

YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Dual Air & Magnetic Resistance with 8-Level, Smart APP, Rotatable Device Holder, Ergonomic Seat, and Easy Storage

  • AIR + MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: SMOOTH, FULL-BODY WORKOUTS THAT CHALLENGE YOU.

  • INSTANT INTENSITY CONTROL: ADJUST RESISTANCE MID-STROKE FOR SEAMLESS WORKOUTS.

  • SMART CONNECTIVITY: TRACK YOUR PROGRESS IN REAL-TIME VIA BLUETOOTH.

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$699.99
YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Dual Air & Magnetic Resistance with 8-Level, Smart APP, Rotatable Device Holder, Ergonomic Seat, and Easy Storage
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Air, water, and magnetic rowing machines are three common types of indoor rowing machines, each utilizing different resistance mechanisms, which affect the rowing experience. Air rowing machines generate resistance using a flywheel with fan blades, meaning that resistance increases with the pace and intensity of the rower's strokes. This design offers a more dynamic workout, simulating the feel of outdoor rowing. Water rowing machines, on the other hand, use a water-filled flywheel tank. The resistance is created by the drag of the water, which also increases with rowing speed, providing a more fluid and realistic rowing sensation akin to being on water. These machines often produce a pleasing, soothing sound as the paddles move through the water. Magnetic rowing machines employ strong magnets to create resistance, with resistance levels adjustable through a magnetic brake mechanism. The resistance remains constant regardless of the rowing speed, offering a quieter, more controlled workout environment. Each type of machine has its own set of advantages, catering to different preferences and requirements, such as noise level, space, and the desired feel of the rowing experience.

What is air rowing resistance?

Air rowing resistance is a type of resistance mechanism used in rowing machines, also known as ergometers or ergs. This resistance is generated by a flywheel with fan blades attached; as you pull the handle, it spins the flywheel, and the blades push against the air to create resistance. The faster and harder you row, the more resistance is created, mimicking the feel of rowing on water.

The key characteristics of air rowing resistance include:

  1. Variable Resistance: Resistance automatically adjusts to the user's effort. The harder you row, the more resistance is generated, allowing for a more personalized workout.
  2. Smooth and Natural Feel: Many users find air rowing to have a smooth and natural feel similar to rowing on water, which is why these machines are popular among athletes, particularly rowers.
  3. Noise Level: Air rowers tend to be noisier compared to magnetic rowers because the movement of the fan blades creates sound. However, this is usually a white noise that doesn't disturb most users.
  4. Maintenance: Generally, air rowing machines require minimal maintenance, as they rely on simple mechanical parts without complex electronic systems.
  5. Dynamic Workout: The ability to control the intensity with your effort makes air rowers suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.

Overall, air rowing resistance offers a challenging, effective, and engaging workout experience, which is ideal for cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and full-body conditioning.

What is a rowing machine ergometer?

A rowing machine ergometer, often simply called an "erg" or "ergometer," is a fitness device that simulates the action of rowing on water. It is used to provide a full-body cardiovascular workout, improve rowing technique, and measure the work output of the user.

Key features of a rowing machine ergometer typically include:

  1. Flywheel or Water Wheel: This part creates resistance as you pull on the handle. The resistance can often be adjusted to simulate different rowing conditions.
  2. Handle: Connected to the flywheel, the handle is pulled back to imitate the rowing action.
  3. Slide Rail: The seat is mounted on a rail, allowing it to slide back and forth as you row, working your leg muscles.
  4. Footrests: These are where you secure your feet to push off as you pull the handle.
  5. Performance Monitor: Most modern rowing machines include a display that tracks metrics such as time, distance, stroke rate, and calories burned, allowing users to measure their performance.

Rowing machines are popular in both home gyms and fitness centers due to their efficiency in providing a low-impact workout that engages multiple muscle groups, including the legs, back, core, and arms. They are also used by competitive rowers for training and maintaining fitness during the off-season.

How to store a rowing machine efficiently?

Storing a rowing machine efficiently requires careful consideration to maximize space and protect the equipment. Here are some steps to ensure efficient storage:

  1. Foldable Options: If your rowing machine is foldable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fold it. Many models are designed to save space when not in use.
  2. Vertical Storage: Some rowing machines can be stored vertically. If your model supports this, it can significantly reduce the floor space required.
  3. Designated Space: Choose a specific area for the rowing machine that doesn't interfere with high-traffic areas in your home. Look for unused spaces like a corner in a room or a spare section in a basement or garage.
  4. Protective Cover: Use a protective cover to keep dust and moisture off the machine, especially if stored in a less frequented area like a garage or basement.
  5. Regular Maintenance: Before storing, clean the machine to remove sweat or dust, tighten any loose parts, and lubricate the chain or mechanisms as needed. This prevents rust and ensures it’s in good working order when you use it next.
  6. Nearby Accessibility: Ensure that the rowing machine is easily accessible while stored, so you can quickly set it up for use without much hassle.
  7. Lift Carefully: If lifting or moving the machine, do so carefully to prevent injury and damage to the machine or surroundings.
  8. Use Vertical Wall Racks: If applicable, consider wall racks designed to hold rowing machines or similar equipment to keep the floor space clear.

By following these steps, you can efficiently store your rowing machine while maintaining ease of access and protecting the equipment.