Standard models operate through one of the four resistance types of rowing machines:
Hydraulic Piston Magnetic Air Water Each provides varying workout intensity, so understanding them is necessary to ensure that you can get what you want to expect in the fitness device you will purchase. Of course, some types of resistance feel much better and more natural than others. And of course, those are much pricier as well.
Here are each type in more detail
Rowing machines which work on piston resistance delivers less realistic rowing action but maintains to give excellent value for one’s money since it provides great workout for a less expensive cost.
Also known as hydraulic rowing machine, this type is a low-end option that works on piston resistance through hydraulic cylinders that are attached to the arms of the rowing machine. They offer resistance levels by manually moving these clamps or levers for adjustment.
Advantages of Piston Resistance Rowing Machine
Price Range : $100 – $500They are offered at a more affordable cost compared to other resistance models but it does not sacrifice the quality of the workout it delivers. This is a smart choice considering the price you pay for the features you get. They come in compact size, not being as large as the other models. This allows it to easily fit under beds or smaller spaces for storage. Some can even fit your closet in an upright position. Resistance levels are adjustable, allowing users to workout according to their preferred intensity. This makes your work out interesting, you are in control of your own rhythm and pace. Challenges of Piston Resistance Rowing Machine
Its motion will not be as smooth and natural as the other resistance types. This resistance type provides more arm workout than a leg and full-body routine. Most people who buy rowing machines for home will be these hydraulic rowing machines . The two main reasons: inexpensive price and compact design for easy storage.
Stamina Rowing Machines are the most popular on the market. Good fluidity with ball-bearing technology. Their two most popular machines are the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 (left) and the Stamina 1215 Orbital Rower (right)
Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines Magnetic resistance type of rowing machine provides smooth and natural feel of rowing across water.
In this resistance type, powerful electromagnets provide control to the resistance of the rowing machine. They are somehow similar to the piston resistance models but offers better and more impressive operation. There are rowing machine models which combine this resistance type to air resistance model.
Advantages of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
Price Range: $500 – $2000 It works almost completely silent. These models have adjustable resistance levels, providing better options to users in choosing preferred intensity for their routine. Progress are more accurately measured through electronic components which provide a digital display about user’s routine profile in terms of distance, calories burned, scans, time, heart rate and a lot more. Challenges of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
It is not as easily stored as a piston resistance machine because it has a long main rail that cannot be folded, but if you have a decent space at home for this equipment, then this should not be a problem. Not as good as Air Rowing Machines which are about the same cost. Considering Air Resistance Rowing Machines are about the same price and are much better quality, most people looking for a quality rowing machine at this price range will opt for Air Rowing Machines instead of Magnetic Rowing Machines
Air resistance rowing machines are the ones most commonly used by off-season rowers.
This kind of resistance is often found in good quality rowing machines, making it the preferred type of off-season rowers. In this model, resistance is dependent on your own pace. This means that greater resistance is provided as your speed increases. It works through a finned flywheel that sucks in air when the row arm is pulled back.
Advantages of Air Resistance Rowing Machine
Price Range: $800 – $2000 With the resistance being dependent on user’s performance, it provides him good control over his workout. This also means that resistance adjustment is unlimited (stepless) since more resistance can be obtained by simply rowing faster. It has a longer main rail which can greatly benefit tall users. Easily identified by the use of a flywheel. Challenges of Air Resistance Rowing Machine
Its fan blade has the potential to get somewhat noisy. Its longer main rail cannot be folded, making it not conducive to compact storage. But this should not be a significant issue if you have a good amount of space to accommodate this equipment. A bit pricier When it comes to looking for a high quality rowing machine for home, most people will opt for the Air rowing machines . Very smooth feeling and fun to use. The flywheel provides an extra element of fun as well.
Concept2 Rowing Machines are by far the most popular Air Rowers on the market. Fantastic design, well constructed flywheels, comfortable seats and grips. Concept2 is head and shoulders above the rest in this arena. Their two most popular machines are the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine (left) and the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine. (right)
Water Resistance Rowing Machines Water resistance models provide the most authentic emulation of actually rowing on water.
This resistance type is known to deliver the most natural simulation of real outdoor rowing. It provides resistance through a stainless steel paddle placed inside a water-filled tank. Its resistance levels are adjusted in two ways: (1) through dependence on the user’s pace, with the resistance proportionally increasing with it and (2) through the addition or removal of water in the resistance tank.
Advantages of Water Resistance Rowing Machine
Price Range: $1000 – $5000 It provides two great options for resistance adjustment, allowing users to freely customize his workout. Users can expect a naturally smooth and vibration-free rowing motion. The soothing sound of water movement during use adds to the natural feel of rowing. Challenges of Water Resistance Rowing Machine
It may produce a considerable amount of noise during operation but this is not as much as air resistance models do. This model is extremely heavy, secondary to its accompanying tank which is full of water. Therefore, it is advisable to allot an ample space for this equipment which will serve as its permanent location. Expensive! Most people looking for rowing machines at home will pass this one up. For much less cost, the Air Rowing Machines provide the proper amount of natural feel for the majority of folks looking to workout at home.
That Concludes This Portion Of Our Buying Guide Now that we’ve explained the main types of rowing machines, and that for most people the Hydraulic Resistance Rowers or the Air Rowers will be the right pick when you want to buy a rowing machine , we’ll now move on to specific features to look for when buying rowing machines.
So be on the lookout for the next part: Part 3: Rowing Machine Features
Here are links to the complete guide:
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