Making the right choice in favour of a rowing machine is a difficult task for the novice. The market is full of models from different manufacturers, each with its own pros, cons, technical features and recommendations. 

Here we’ll take a look at what to consider when choosing the best magnetic rowing machines. We will tell you about the types, advise on the models and tell you what to look for when choosing.

Types of rowing machines

Depending on the operating mechanism, rowing machines are divided into the following categories:

  • Aerodynamic – used in fitness rooms. High priced, bulky, noisy, yet perfectly capable of performing all functions, they are popular with professionals.
  • Aeromagnetic – create resistance to human effort with magnets. The generator built into the projectile allows for unplugged operation. It features a variety of workout modes, accurately simulating actual rowing, so regular exercise can give you an excellent workout to strengthen your muscles and strengthen your respiratory and cardiovascular system;
  • Aquatic – hydraulic projectiles, famous for their ease of regulation as well as adjustment. Training is similar to working with an oar in a boat in a natural body of water;
  • Magnetic rowing machines are some of the best rowing machines for the home. They are quiet, compact, handy and easy to use;
  • The mechanical models are budget-friendly, suitable for beginners who don’t want to buy expensive fitness equipment at home. These models usually have a battery-powered display for displaying training data;
  • Electromagnetic – control is using integrated electronics. The operating mechanism is based on magnetic resistance. Suitable for the home as they don’t make a lot of noise;

Magnetic rowing machines

Best magnetic rowing machines use a magnetic braking system to create resistance. Moving the magnet closer or further away from the metal flywheel creates more or less resistance to its rotation and increases or decreases the load. 

Resistance level adjustment can be either manual or electronic. Magnetic resistance creates no friction and is virtually silent. The size of this type of rowing machine is comparable to an aerodynamic rowing machine. 

Magnetic rowing machine provides the same smooth rowing motion as aerodynamic rowing machines, but with a low noise level.

It would seem to be the best option, but no – in terms of realism and smoothness of rowing, the magnetic rowing machine is still inferior to the aerodynamic ones.  

Also, magnetic rowing machine creates less resistance than electromagnetic, aerodynamic and water rowing devices. Magnetic rowing machine became very popular due to their affordable price and lack of noise.

The main features of magnetic rowing machine are:

  • * Price range: £120 and above;
  • * Size: usually has a long base;
  • * Storage: Most models can be folded in half for easy storage;
  • * Load regulation: Depending on the model, they have manual or electronic resistance level adjustment;
  • * Noise levels: The quietest – ideal for those who need a quality workout in silence;
  • * Paddling resistance: not smooth and strong enough, does not give the feeling of paddling on the water;
  • * Great for beginners and professionals as well as for everyone in between

Aeromagnetic rowing machines

This is a new type of rowing machine. Represents a combined type of magnetic and air resistance. 

Thanks to the combination of two types of resistance at once, the load can be adjusted both by magnetic resistance, which is not always sufficient and by air resistance when the rowing motion’s intensity is increased. 

Here you get a relatively low noise level at an intense workout and have the opportunity to significantly increase resistance levels through air resistance during intensive workouts.

Combination rowing machines are designed for taller heights and heavier weights and are in the higher price ranges.  

The exerciser has more advanced settings and a system for tracking exercise performance. 

The resistance on combination rowing machines is usually the strongest because of the two types of resistance working simultaneously.

Aeromagnetic rowing machines are suitable for those who are not looking for an ‘on-the-water rowing counterpart. 

The main characteristics of aeromagnetic rowing simulators:

* Price range: from RUB 27,000 and above;

* Size: large, thanks to the long seat rail;

* Storage: Most models can be folded in half for easy storage;

* Load regulation: This type of exerciser has two loading systems using a magnetic braking system combined with an air resistance system;

* Noise level: due to the lower fan speed it is quieter than the aerodynamic ones but louder than the magnetic ones;

* Rowing resistance: can be heavier than other types of rowing machines due to the two kinds of resistance – air and magnetic – and the movement is not entirely smooth, there can be jerking, the feeling of training has little resemblance to rowing on the water;

* Suitable for all fitness levels (beginners (with the system set up for minimal exertion), more suitable for intermediate and advanced levels);

* Features: Suitable for those who need a heavier load, have the most vigorous resistance.

Best aeromagnetic rowing machines

Infiniti R70

The model quite accurately simulates the strain a person receives when paddling in a natural body of water. During the workout, cardiovascular and respiratory muscles are pumped in parallel.

The display shows detailed information about your workout, such as calories burned, distance and number of strokes per minute. 6 levels of exertion, where everyone sets the difficulty of the training based on their physical abilities.

Pros:

* Dimensions;

* Weighs 27 kg;

* Easy to adjust the seat position;

* Easy to fold up and transport;

* Measurement accuracy;

* Affordable price – ~40,000 roubles.

Minuses:

* Maximum weight is 100 kg;

* Only 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Fitex PRO

This aeromagnetic model is versatile, suitable for both home and professional fitness classes. Capable of supporting weights up to 180 kg, it has various settings to make exercising as comfortable and convenient as possible for everyone.

There are 10 levels of resistance built-in, so anyone with any fitness level can adjust the workout’s intensity to suit them. Easy to operate – all relevant data is displayed on the screen. The model has virtually no drawbacks, but you will have to pay a lot to buy it.

Pros:

* High maximum loads;

* Robust construction;

* Extensive adjustment possibilities;

* Ergonomic.

Minuses:

* Price

Magnetic Rowing Machine Training tips

  • For beginners, it is worth revisiting athletes you know, coaches or friends who are into the sport and training at an amateur level. They will help and tell you where to start.
  • Read the instructions for use. Try to use your exerciser correctly to avoid injury and to ensure that the equipment you buy lasts longer.
  • Consult your doctor for contraindications – your medical condition may limit certain muscle groups and joints’ strain.
  • If you feel the slightest discomfort during exercise, stop it immediately.
  • Start exercising based on your fitness level, don’t start exercising for hours at a time and wear your body out. It is enough to start with 15-20 minutes of training and then gradually increase the time.

Conclusion

Still unsure of you need a magnetic rowing machine? Postpone the purchase. This is an expensive machine that will only work its price if you train regularly; it’s hardly suitable as a clothes rack.

Have a look at the available models for sale in your city. Visit popular sports shop websites – they offer quality branded products from well-known manufacturers. 

But if you decide to go for a magnetic rowing machine, follow experienced athletes and trainers’ advice. Exercise regularly, with pleasure and to the benefit of your health.