Check out our round-up of the best running machines for home gyms
What to Consider
Durability and Quality
If you’re dropping hundreds on a complicated piece of gym equipment, you want to know that it can perform and last. That’s why it pays to buy from a company that you trust and that offers a solid, reputable product with a decent warranty. Don’t settle for a bargain-priced Amazon model from a brand you’ve never heard of just because it seems like a steal. In the world of fitness equipment, you almost always get what you pay for. If you’re planning to row on a regular basis and to keep your foldable rowing machine for the foreseeable future, consider investing good money into a model that will last.
Storage
Due to their need for complicated mechanisms and technology, these cardio machines can be big and bulky. Not many of us have the room to waste on a huge rowing machine taking up space eternally in our spare room or living area. That’s why folding models are a great way to go. But it’s important to find one that folds and stores in a way that makes sense for your home. Some rowers fold neatly in half or offer vertical storage to minimise wasted floor space. Look for models with transport wheels too, so you can easily move yours around by yourself, when folded or not.
Warranty
Given that some of these rowing machines are upwards of £1,000, buying one is a serious investment. So, it’s important to purchase from a manufacturer that offers a clear, comprehensive warranty. They vary widely across the industry, with the most budget-forward brands offering just 90 days on some parts, and others boasting generous 10-year warranties on everything. Again, the more you spend upfront, the better the warranty is likely to be. If there’s anything that isn’t clear to you about the stated warranty, be sure to ask. It’s your money, after all.
Resistance
When considering an indoor rowing machine, you’ll encounter a variety of resistance systems.
- Magnetic: Utilises magnets and a flywheel for consistent resistance, ideal for steady workouts and small spaces.
- Air: Features a fan-driven flywheel, offering dynamic resistance that increases with intensity.
- Water: Mimics the sensation of rowing on water with a water tank and paddles that offer smooth and fluid movement.
- Hydraulic: Uses hydraulic pistons for resistance regulation, delivering a budget-friendly option with potential motion limitations.
Digital Classes
The most basic foldable rowing machine design hasn’t changed much over the years, and you can still find a ‘classic’-style model for a reasonable price (like the Concept2). But, if you’re looking for a more connected experience, smart rowers like the Hydrow Wave or the Peloton Row may be the route for you. These models offer touchscreens with built-in apps that connect you to professional trainers who can motivate and work with you to better achieve your personal goals. The rowing machines with these features are more expensive upfront, but worth it for those who find more success in that class environment. If you go this route though, be sure to consider that many also require ongoing monthly subscriptions to take full advantage of those features.
How We Test Rowing Machines
Leveraging our expertise and experience, our dedicated team of MH editors and certified trainers have been diligently testing the best rowing machines for years. Throughout the process, we have carefully considered numerous best-selling models from reputable and highly rated brands.
Our evaluation criteria cover all the essentials: build quality, resistance mechanism, performance, tech features, and price. To ensure a comprehensive assessment, each rowing machine has undergone rigorous trials, including varied workout routines such as high-intensity sprints, endurance-based long-distance rows, and challenging interval sessions. Our collective efforts have resulted in logging hundreds of miles on these rowers, providing invaluable insights into performance, stability, and ensuring that your investment is built to last.
The 5 Best Foldable Rowing Machines Worth Buying in 2024
It’s time to say goodbye to limited workout options and hello to convenience. We’ve got you covered with the top five foldable rowing machines on the market now.
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1
Best Overall
Hydrow Wave Rower
The Hydrow Wave — a more streamlined and slimmed-down version of Hydrow’s original machine — is a smart connected rower with a focus on recreating the real-world rowing experience. While it does not actually fold in half, the neck and screen do fold down to facilitate simple and compact vertical storing.
‘If I can’t use a Concept2, this is my go-to,’ says MH US fitness director Ebenezer Samuel. ‘Despite the compact size, the Wave is super durable. It fits easily in my basement training area, and can stand up for storage. But I can still go hard on this rower for sprints, or take on longer intervals. A free mode would be nice, so I could build my own workouts, but this is the best magnetic resistance rowing experience on the market.’
It offers a long list of other high-tech features, including a crisp and responsive touchscreen display. Unique ‘electromagnetic drag’ technology also makes for more realistic and lifelike rowing — more so than any other machine we tested. Plus, it sets up and stows in seconds. In addition to a folding neck, an optional upright storage kit ensures it takes up minimal space, which is especially nice for storing in apartments and other tight spaces.
The Hydrow Wave features the sleekest, most streamlined design of any rowing machine we’ve seen. It’s enough to elevate the look of any home gym, although it comes at a premium — the device is over £1,400 (full price) and also requires an ongoing monthly subscription fee of £44.
| Resistance type | Electromagnetic |
|---|---|
| Display | 16″ HD touchscreen |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 80″ x 19″ x 43″ |
| Item weight | 46.3kg |
| Maximum weight capacity | 170kg |
2
Best for the Garage Gym
Concept2 RowErg
The RowErg is the updated name for Concept2’s Model D rower, and it’s the first device that comes to mind when we think of training on a rower at home. And while it doesn’t technically fold in half, it does separate into two pieces, which can be stored upright. Our editors have never come across a better rower than this one, period.
‘It’s an industry standard used by CrossFit and in many high-profile competitions for a reason,’ says Samuel. ‘It relies on a variable resistance flywheel that provides a constant challenge, making it great for high volume or experienced rowers.’
In a nutshell, it offers many of the same features as the best rowing machines that cost twice as much. Plus, it’s extremely easy to assemble. In our experience (and many Amazon reviewers agree) setup takes around 20 minutes with minimal tools or hardware (just eight screws are required). The design is versatile enough to support users up to 35 stone, with adjustable footrests and an ergonomic handle. It’s built with high-quality materials throughout, so it’s plenty durable, too.
City dwellers and users tight on space will appreciate the clever design that allows this machine to not only separate into two pieces but also store upright for easy storage. Built-in caster wheels make setting it up and putting it away a breeze. Plus, it’s surprisingly mid-range in price at £990 delivered.
| Resistance type | Air |
|---|---|
| Display | PM5 performance monitor |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 96″ x 24″ x 14″ |
| Item weight | 26kg |
| Maximum weight capacity | 35 stone |
3
Best Mid-Range Rower
Echelon Row
Echelon’s base model Row has an ergonomic cushioned seat and oversized, adjustable foot pedals for extra comfort. The 32 silent, magnetic resistance levels allow you to customise your workout, whether you’re a rowing newb or an advanced rowing machine. Best of all, it’s foldable and built-in wheels help for easy transport to tuck it easily away when it’s not in use.
While it lacks the jumbo high-tech displays of many other machines on this list, it features a device holder that swivels and flips around for use during off-row workouts instead. With an optional Echelon Fit US membership (you can still use the rower without it), you get access to 3,000+ live and on-demand classes including rowing, strength, yoga, and more. Plus, all those scenic rides that high-end rowers twice the price boast. Dual built-in speakers also allow you to hear the trainers in your virtual workout programs loud and clear, too.
Bonus: It’s the second most affordable rowing machine on this list, and occasionally can be picked up on sale. So, if budget is a concern, the Smart Rowing Machine is definitely worth considering.
| Resistance type | Magnetic |
|---|---|
| Display | LCD |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 84.65″ x 20.47″ x 43.7″ |
| Item weight | 54.4kg |
| Maximum weight capacity | 21.4 stone |
4
Most Versatile Rower
NordicTrack RW900
Want group fitness workouts in the comfort of your own home? This rowing machine from NordicTrack has you covered. The RW900 Smart Rower has a crisp, 22-inch touchscreen, which allows you to take classes on-demand and automatically adjusts your resistance level according to the trainers’ preferences. Professional class instructors will even challenge you to go beyond just cardio, with strength training and yoga classes, too. The comprehensive virtual program library ensures you’ll never be bored, but keep in mind it’s a separate monthly cost.
We like the long list of other nice-to-haves like Bluetooth headphone connectivity, quick-adjust pedals, and easy assembly. A few other standout features make it one of Samuel’s go-to’s for a long rowing workout: ‘The seat’s extra-comfortable, and the magnetic resistance on this is ultra-quiet so it’s easy to watch Netflix or listen to a podcast while training.’
It also sets up, folds, and stores easily, making it a breeze to get ready and break down at the end of your workouts. Given the long list of smart features and the NordicTrack brand name, it’s priced at a premium.
| Resistance type | Dual air and magnetic |
|---|---|
| Display | 22″ touchscreen |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 86.5″ x 22″ x 47″ |
| Item weight | 59.2kg |
| Maximum weight capacity | 17.8 stone |
5
Best for Beginners
Proform 750R Rowing Machine
With the option to upgrade to an iFIT membership (for £34/month), you can take your exercise to the next level with an Automatic Trainer Control feature that digitally adjusts your resistance. Meaning an at-home workout that keeps you engaged and motivated.
The 750R Rowing Machine itself is well-designed, with 24 digital resistance levels that catch pretty quickly when adjusting. A multicolor display keeps track of essential stats such as distance, time, and estimated calorie burn, but lacks higher-end tech features or app connectivity (you’ll need to use a phone or tablet for iFit).
An oversized cushioned seat offers solid support, and the rower is built on a solid steel rail, so it feels stable during use. It’s not the most heavy-duty rower on this list, but backed by a 5-year frame warranty and a 1-year parts and labor warranty, it’s a good piece for beginners to get started on.
| Resistance type | Digital |
|---|---|
| Display | 5″ multicolor backlit display screen |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 45.5″ x 22″ x 86.5″ |
| Item weight | 52.6kg |
| Maximum weight capacity | 17.8 stone |
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Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world.
Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.
Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., is the fitness director of Men’s Health and a certified trainer with more than 10 years of training experience. He’s logged training time with NFL athletes and track athletes and his current training regimen includes weight training, HIIT conditioning, and yoga. Before joining Men’s Health, he served as a sports columnist and tech columnist for the New York Daily News.
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