Best Water Rowing Machines of 2026
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Water rowing machines are a popular option for those looking for a low-impact, full-body workout. These machines simulate the feeling of rowing on water, using a water tank to create resistance. The sound of the water adds to the overall experience, making it feel like a true outdoor rowing experience. Water rowing machines are also known for their smooth and quiet operation, making them a great choice for home use. They provide a great cardiovascular workout while also building strength in the arms, back, and core. Plus, the natural resistance of the water means that the workout can be adjusted to fit any fitness level.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 7 Water Rowing Machines
Garvee Magnetic Water Rowing Machine
The Garvee Water Rower offers a smooth and natural rowing experience by adjusting resistance based on how hard you row, thanks to its angled water tank with a multi-blade design. You can easily track your progress with its advanced monitor that measures time, distance, calories, strokes, pulse, and wattage, helping you stay motivated and improve your workouts. The machine replicates real open-water rowing with stable pedals and a spring system, giving you an authentic rowing feel. Plus, its ergonomic design with padded handlebars and a cushioned seat keeps you comfortable and supports good posture during longer exercise sessions.
MERACH Water Rowing Machine
The MERACH Rowing Machine is designed for convenience and efficiency in your home workouts. Its innovative foldable design allows you to easily store it like a suitcase, saving space without hassle. With a sturdy construction that supports up to 400 lbs, this machine is perfect for every family member, ensuring stability during use. The water tank provides adjustable resistance, allowing you to engage 90% of your muscles effectively. Plus, the dedicated workout monitor tracks important metrics, helping you stay motivated and informed about your progress.
YPOO Magnetic Rowing Machine
The YPOO Magnetic Rower offers a quiet yet powerful workout with 16 adjustable resistance levels, so you can tailor the intensity to your fitness level without disturbing others. Its sturdy steel frame supports up to 350 lbs and fits users from 4'5" to 6'3", providing comfort and stability during longer sessions. This rower targets your entire body, combining cardio and strength training with a slight incline that makes your workout more challenging and effective. Plus, the smart display lets you track key stats like time and calories, while app compatibility offers guided workouts and virtual classes to keep you motivated and engaged.
YOSUDA Foldable Water Rowing Machine
The YOSUDA Water Rower offers a realistic rowing experience by using water resistance that adjusts based on how fast and hard you row, making your workout enjoyable and soothing with the sound of water. Its foldable design helps you save space, folding up to 180 degrees so you can easily store it at home. Made from eco-friendly solid beech wood, it adds a touch of elegance to your workout area. The large 22L water tank ensures smooth resistance during your exercise, and patented sealing technology means you won’t have to worry about leaks or draining the tank after use. This makes the YOSUDA Water Rower both practical and user-friendly for your home fitness routine.
MERACH Wood Water Rowing Machine
The MERACH Water Rower offers a sturdy rowing machine made from solid wood, designed to support users up to 6ft8in and 350 lbs, making it a great fit for most families. Its 12 enhanced resistance blades provide a smoother and quieter rowing experience, so you can enjoy a realistic feel every time you row. When space is tight, you can easily fold or store the rower upright, helping it blend nicely with your home decor. Plus, the ergonomic design with a higher rail and upgraded handle and foot straps ensures a comfortable, blister-free workout, especially helpful for taller users and those looking for added safety.
WENOKER Wooden Water Rowing Machine
The WENOKER Water Rower offers a full-body workout that targets your legs, core, and arms, combining cardio and strength training to help you burn calories and improve fitness. Its water tank lets you adjust resistance by changing the water level, so you can easily customize your workout intensity. The soothing sound of water rowing creates a relaxing exercise experience. The machine features an adjustable monitor that tracks your workout stats and connects with the KINOMAP app for training guidance. Plus, its ergonomic seat, adjustable foot straps, and foldable design provide comfort and convenience, making it easy to fit and move in your home.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639SMART Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health Rowing Machine offers a full-body workout by engaging your legs, back, core, and arms with its smooth 360-degree motion arms that mimic real rowing. You get free access to the SunnyFit App, which provides over 1,000 trainer-led workouts and thousands of scenic virtual routes to keep your workouts fun and motivating. This machine supports users up to 350 pounds while maintaining a compact design, making it perfect for smaller spaces. Plus, its realistic rowing simulation through the app helps you feel like you’re rowing on water, adding excitement and effectiveness to your home exercise routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is a water rowing machine a good workout?
Yes, a water rowing machine provides an excellent workout. It helps with weight loss, muscle toning, and calorie burning. You can expect to burn around 600 calories per hour, making it one of the most effective exercise machines. The LIT Strength Machine is a reliable option if you're looking for a water rowing machine.
2. What are the cons of the water rower?
Water rowers tend to be larger and bulkier compared to other rowing machines. This may not be suitable if you have limited workout space.
3. What is the difference between a rowing machine and a water rowing machine?
The main difference between a rowing machine and a water rowing machine is the resistance operation. Water rowing machines use water as their resistance mechanism, while other rowing machines may utilize different methods like air, hydraulic, or magnetic resistance.
4. Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
Yes, a rowing machine can help you lose belly fat and tone your stomach. Incorporating exercises like push-ups, pikes, and planks alongside rowing can specifically target the midsection.
5. Is 20 mins a day on a rowing machine enough?
For general health, 30 minutes of rowing at a moderate intensity or 15 minutes at a vigorous intensity is sufficient. However, if your goal is weight loss or sports training, you may need to increase the duration to around 40 minutes per day.
6. Are water rowers bad for your back?
Rowing machines, including water rowers, can cause back pain if proper technique and form are not followed. It is crucial to follow instructions and maintain proper posture to avoid back pain and maximize the benefits of the workout.
7. Can you lose weight by water rowing?
Yes, water rowing is an effective workout for weight loss. It is a low-impact, full-body exercise that elevates your heart rate, leading to fat burning throughout the body, including the midsection. To achieve weight loss benefits, aim to operate at 55 to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate during rowing workouts.
8. Which is better water or air rower?
Water rowers provide a smooth and consistent resistance throughout the stroke, while air rowers may feel slightly turbulent. The choice between water and air rowers comes down to personal preference, with water rowers offering a thicker consistency in resistance due to the fluid used.
During our water rowing machine research, we found 24 water rowing machine products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 45,520 customer reviews through our big data system to write the water rowing machines list. We found that most customers choose water rowing machines with an average price of $242.26.
The water rowing machines are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of water rowing machines, including Garvee, MERACH, YPOO, YOSUDA, Wenoker. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.