Rowing machines have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they provide a full-body workout, but they are also low-impact, making them an ideal choice for those who want to avoid the strain that other forms of exercise can put on joints. Additionally, rowing machines can help improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle strength, making them a great option for people looking to improve their fitness.
When choosing a rowing machine, many people prefer models that cost under $500. This is because these machines offer great value for money while still providing a high-quality workout experience. These models typically have a simple design, with basic features such as adjustable resistance and a digital display to track metrics like distance, time, and calories burned.
Opting for a less expensive rowing machine comes with the advantage of enabling you to kick-start your fitness regimen without incurring significant expenses. You can still achieve a great workout without investing in a high-end machine that comes with all the bells and whistles. Additionally, more affordable rowing machines are lighter and more compact, making them easier to store and move around as needed.
Another advantage of choosing a lower-priced rowing machine is that they are often simpler to use. This makes them an ideal choice for beginners who may not be familiar with the technical aspects of more advanced models. With a basic machine, you can focus on your workout and maximize your exercise routine without worrying about complicated settings and features.
In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the best rowing machines under $500, so you can find the perfect machine to suit your needs and budget. We’ve got you covered, from basic models with simple designs to machines with advanced features. So let’s find the perfect rowing machine to help you achieve your fitness goals!
Why Many People Prefer Using Rowing Machines Exercise Bikes?
Rowing machines and exercise bikes are two pieces of exercise equipment that can aid in obtaining an excellent cardiovascular workout. While both modalities are efficacious, rowing machines are frequently deemed better than exercise bikes for several reasons.
Rowing machines primarily provide a full-body workout that engages many muscles, including the legs, core, arms, and back muscles. As a result, rowing machines burn more calories and build more muscle than exercise bikes that primarily target the lower body.
Secondarily, rowing machines are low-impact, which means they’re gentler on your joints. Cycling can be strenuous on your knees and hips, especially when pedaling at a high resistance or cadence. Conversely, rowing is a smooth and fluid motion that doesn’t stress your joints excessively.
Rowing machines can also enhance your posture. While rowing, one must maintain an upright position and engage the core, which can help to strengthen back muscles and improve posture over time. On the contrary, sitting on an exercise bike can sometimes encourage slouching, which isn’t great for your back and neck.
The resistance on a rowing machine can be adjusted to suit your fitness level, making it more challenging or easier. This adaptability allows you to keep challenging yourself, which can be motivational and rewarding. Ultimately, rowing machines can provide a more arduous workout.
Naturally, selecting the exercise equipment that caters to your fitness goals and preferences is important. Nonetheless, a rowing machine may be the optimal choice if you’re seeking a low-impact, full-body workout that can enhance your posture and provide a challenge.
1. Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Water Rowing Machine – Best Overall Rowing Machine Under 500
Sunny Health & Fitness is a brand specializing in fitness equipment, including rowing machines, exercise bikes, treadmills, and more. Founded in 2002, the brand has quickly become popular among fitness enthusiasts, thanks to their high-quality products at an affordable price point. They offer a wide range of fitness equipment to suit all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.
One thing that sets Sunny Health & Fitness apart from other brands is their focus on innovation and technology, with many of their machines featuring advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity and digital displays to track metrics like distance, time, and calories burned.
Sunny Health & Fitness is a reliable and well-regarded brand that delivers excellent bang for your buck, making them a perfect option for anyone seeking top-notch workout gear at a reasonable cost.
One challenging thing about SHF is that many of its products have generic names, making it difficult to differentiate between them. However, the Obsidian Surge is still a great name!
The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine is an excellent budget rower that provides a full-body, low-impact workout. With this rowing machine, you’ll get the sensation of rowing on water, thanks to its three stainless-steel hydro blades suspended in the water tank to provide dynamic resistance.
The resistance operates by pulling the handle and spinning the paddles suspended in the tank of water, and the faster you row, the more resistance you create. Additionally, the low noise volume is much quieter than an air rower, and many users find the sound of the water-resistance meditative.
Constructed from lightweight, sturdy steel, this water rower is built to last. The water tank is made from polycarbonate plastic, which is strong and durable and won’t crack or leak. The seat, rollers, handle, and rowing strap are all carefully crafted with high-quality materials for an enjoyable rowing experience. The SF-RW5713 also comes with “leveling caps,” so your rower always feels strong and stable.
The Obsidian Surge is a stable and sturdy rowing machine that can accommodate people of all sizes, with an assembled weight of just over 90 lb and a weight limit of 300 lb. So, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable workout without worrying about the machine tipping over.
The Obsidian Surge has an extremely comfortable seat, making it the perfect choice for a low-impact, full-body workout. The seat is molded, padded, and large enough to accommodate any user. It is also 17″ off the floor, allowing users to get on and off the rower without putting extra stress on their knees and back.
The seat also sits on three sets of rollers and bearings to provide a quiet, smooth rowing stroke. Additionally, the non-slip sweat-resistant handle gives users a secure grip, allowing them to row confidently and comfortably.
This Rowing Machine has the R2 Fitness Meter, an advanced digital monitor that tracks all essential workout metrics. This monitor can track total time, 500m split time, strokes per minute, total strokes, distance, calories, heart rate, and room temperature.
It also has a few options to select from when starting, including pre-selecting a value such as time or distance and having the monitor count down.
The monitor also has a “Race” feature where you can select the pace of an “on-screen” digital boat and race it to the finish. Additionally, users can purchase a compatible heart rate monitor separately and display their heart rate on the monitor as they row.
The monitor has received favorable reviews and few complaints, making it a great choice for users who want to stay in the lower price range while still having “good” and not “highly accurate” data.
You’ll love this rowing machine’s versatility, which includes pre-programmed workouts and allows you to create your own custom ones to suit your fitness goals and preferences. So, you can enjoy a personalized workout experience tailored to your needs.
You can feel confident in purchasing this advanced rowing machine, which has an impressive 3-year frame and 180-day parts guarantee. As a result, you can exercise stress-free, knowing that your investment is secure.
2. STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER – Best Compact Rowing Machine Under $500
Stamina Products has been helping people stay fit and active since 1987 with their diverse range of home gym equipment. From exercise bikes and elliptical trainers to rowing machines and trampolines, they provide high-quality yet affordable exercise gear to suit all experience levels.
Each of their machines comes equipped with adjustable tension settings, enabling you to tailor your workout to your preferences and requirements. Their Smart Workout App lets you track your progress and stay motivated. With Stamina Products, you can get an effective workout without signing a gym contract.
The Stamina Bodytrack Glider is a great rowing machine for users who want a good full-body workout but are also limited in space. It is compact, weighs less than 40 pounds, and folds for easy storage. The hydraulic-piston resistance has 12 levels of adjustment, and it includes a multi-functional fitness monitor to track your workouts.
The seat and handles are comfortable, and the full range of motion arms emulate real-life rowing motion. Users have complained about the foot pedals and straps being too big, but this can be easily fixed.
Considering the price point, the Stamina Body Trac Glider offers remarkable build quality, with its steel frame and aluminum center beam delivering robustness and sturdiness. It is surprisingly solid and holds up well even with regular use.
The hydraulic piston resistance is also known to produce minimal noise, making it ideal for users who don’t want to disturb their roommates or neighbors. The fitness monitor is basic but tracks the basic fitness data accurately.
The Stamina Bodytrack Glider is an affordable and reliable rowing machine. It is backed by a 90-day warranty covering any defects in the machine’s materials or workmanship. The machine’s price is quite reasonable, coming in at around $200. This price makes it a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly rowing machine.
The Stamina Bodytrack Glider is an ideal rowing machine for those looking to get a full-body workout in a space-conscious way. It offers adjustable resistance levels, a multi-functional fitness monitor, and a smooth rowing motion. The lightweight frame makes it easy to store away when not in use, and the hydraulic piston resistance is perfect for beginners and those looking for a quieter rower.
Furthermore, its comfortable handles and foot pedals make it an excellent choice for individuals seeking to row for longer durations. The Bodytrack Glider is ideal for people new to rowing, wanting a quiet rowing machine, or simply wanting to get a good workout without breaking the bank.
3. STAMINA ATS AIR ROWER 1399 – Best Air Rowing Machine Under $500
The next Stamina product on this list is the Stamina ATS air rower. Yes, we love Stamina products so much that we actually included another product of theirs on this list!
The Stamina Air Rower 1399 is a great budget-friendly rowing machine. It has a solid steel frame, a comfortable padded seat, and a single-button multi-function monitor. It is an air-resistance rowing machine with variable resistance and is ideal for HIIT and Crossfit style workouts. The angled seat rail also adds some additional resistance and helps create a smoother rowing stroke.
Over 80% of users have reviewed the air rower positively, and it is suitable for users of all fitness levels. This machine is an excellent choice for those seeking a low-impact, full-body workout. There is no knob to turn or button to press to change resistance levels, so the resistance level is determined by how hard you row. The noise level isn’t too loud; most users find it gets louder the harder they row.
It has a weight limit of 250 lbs and an assembled weight of around 58 lbs, which is lightweight and easy to move around. It is also foldable, allowing for easy storage in small areas. The solid steel frame also gives it a sturdy and reliable feel, giving users the confidence that it can take all the abuse they throw at it.
The Stamina Air Rower has a single-button multi-function monitor that tracks basic fitness data such as speed (MPH), distance (miles), time, and calories. The speed remains fixed on the monitor while the rest of the data is displayed one at a time and can be changed manually by pressing the ‘mode’ button. It can also be set to ‘scan’ mode, where the monitor cycles through the workout data displaying each for 6 seconds.
The monitor is powered by 2 AA batteries (not included) and turns on automatically by pressing the button or moving the seat. Unfortunately, there is no backlight, so it can be hard to read in low-light areas. The calorie calculator is based on an average user, so it should only be used to compare which workouts were more effective at burning calories.
It comes with a 3-year frame warranty and a 90-day parts warranty, which is one of the longest warranties available for this type of product. The manufacturer also offers a money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied with the purchase.
The Stamina Air Rower is a great choice for an affordable air-resistance rowing machine. At around $299 on sale, this is the most affordable model in the Stamina Air Rower product line, making it an attractive option for budget shoppers. Despite its low price tag, the machine still offers users a sturdy frame and monitor that looks like it can take some punishment.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine- Best Budget Rowing Machine Under 500
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is an affordable and budget-friendly machine that offers a complete home workout and is a great option for those who want an effective workout without breaking the bank.
The SF-RW5515 is a magnetic resistance-type rowing machine that aims to provide the user with a convenient yet challenging complete home workout. It features 8 adjustable levels of resistance, a comfortable padded seat, and a digital monitor that displays workout time, stroke count & calorie count. The SF-RW5515 has a very sturdy design and is lightweight at 59lb, with a maximum user weight capacity of 250lb.
The footplates pivot and the handle is positioned above the footplates, limiting the user’s range of motion. Furthermore, it has floor stabilizers and a well-constructed steel slide rail that is 7 feet long and suitable for tall users. The machine is also foldable and has transportation wheels for easy storage and movement. The warranty for this model is 3 years on the frame and 180 days on the parts and components.
The Rowing Machine is a lightweight mobile machine that can easily be folded for storage. This rower is ideal for those with limited space or who need to store the rower away when not in use. The rower can easily be folded into a compact size and then moved with its two sturdy transportation wheels.
With its convenient folding and portability features, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a great option for those who need a machine that can easily be stored away when not in use.
The digital display on the Rowing Machine shows workout time, stroke count & calorie count. These are very basic features; in reality, you can only rely on the time and stroke count to be accurate. If you’re looking for accurate metrics on your workout, it’s important to note that the Stamina ATS Air Rower doesn’t measure your weight, height, or effort levels. This means you shouldn’t solely on the calorie count to gauge your progress.
Features like stroke-per-minute recording, compatibility with heart rate monitors, or pre-installed workout programs would be a great addition to the Stamina ATS Air Rower. However, given the price point, these features are understandably absent.
5. ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine – Best Foldable Rowing Machine Under $500
While we have yet to become familiar with the ECHANFIT brand, we have noticed an increase in the number of Chinese-based companies entering the fitness market these days. However, after a closer look at their rowing machine, it’s hard to deny that this affordable model has many impressive features.
As the name suggests, the ECHANFIT rower utilizes magnetic resistance, which provides a smooth and consistent resistance level no matter how fast or hard you row. This is a great advantage as it enables users to maintain a quiet workout environment.
Overall, the ECHANFIT rowing machine offers an impressive package of features at an affordable price point. While the brand may not be as well-known as others, it’s worth considering for those looking for a reliable and efficient workout machine.
The ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly rowing machine. It offers 16 levels of magnetic resistance, providing intense workouts for even the most advanced users. The belt drive system provides a smooth and quiet operation, while the long rail allows users up to 6’6″ to comfortably use this machine. It also includes a basic monitor for tracking your progress.
Best of all, it folds for easy storage, making it ideal for those with limited workout space. With an MSRP of around $270, the ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine is an excellent value for its price.
Despite its lightweight design, weighing only 57 pounds, the ECHANFIT rowing machine boasts an impressive weight capacity of up to 350 pounds. This means that users of various sizes and shapes can enjoy a comfortable and stable workout on this machine.
The ECHANFIT rowing machine’s console is larger than you would typically find in this price range, but it only provides the most essential workout stats. However, it has a convenient tablet holder that lets you easily follow along with streaming workout videos.
Despite its affordability, this rowing machine offers an impressive warranty of 12 months on its parts and a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is impressive for a machine in this price bracket. This gives users the peace of mind that they can try out the machine and ensure it meets their needs before making a long-term commitment.
6. Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best Quiet Rowing Machine Under $500
When we were searching for a reasonably-priced indoor cycle, we stumbled upon the JOROTO brand and were immediately impressed by the features their bike had to offer. The bike boasted a heavy flywheel, magnetic resistance, and an excellent price point.
If you’re in the market for affordable fitness equipment, JOROTO is a brand worth considering. This Chinese-based company offers a range of products, including cycles, rowers, and treadmills, all at a price that won’t break the bank. With their focus on affordability, JOROTO makes it easy for anyone to start building a home gym without spending a fortune.
The Joroto magnetic rowing machine is a great choice for those looking for a smooth rowing stroke that’s comfortable and efficient. It has a premier weighted flywheel that provides a smooth resistance system, and the seat is made of high-density foam padding that prevents slipping during the leg push phase of the stroke.
This rower also has three sets of wheels that move effortlessly along the grooves of the rail, allowing for an uninterrupted and comfortable rowing experience. Overall, this machine is an excellent choice for those looking for a quality rowing machine at an affordable price.
The 4.4 lb flywheel is designed to simulate actual rowing on water, making it an excellent choice for athletes who want to optimize their performance. The flywheel also has an adjustable tension knob, which allows users to customize their workout intensity by increasing or decreasing the resistance.
In addition, the flywheel is extremely quiet, ensuring a peaceful rowing experience. Therefore, if you are searching for a rowing machine that operates quietly and doesn’t cause disruptions in your home, this could be the perfect option.
The Joroto Magnetic Rowing Machine offers 10 levels of magnetic resistance for various workouts. The resistance levels range from very light to hard, so you can choose the intensity that fits your fitness goals.
With an approximate weight of 55 lbs, the machine is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a portable rowing machine. It can also support up to 300 lbs of user weight, making it suitable for many users.
The rowing machine’s console falls within the expected range for its price point, showing only basic metrics such as time. However, it includes a tablet holder for users who prefer streaming Netflix or accessing other fitness applications.
The model includes a typical 12-month parts warranty, so nothing is particularly noteworthy about it.
The Joroto Magnetic rowing machine M35 is a great choice for those who want to get a full-body workout from their home. It is well built, quiet, and provides 10 levels of resistance, making it suitable for all fitness levels. It is perfect for those who don’t want to disturb their neighbors or roommates; you can use it in any space without worrying about making too much noise.
Buying Guide For The Best Rowing Machines Under $500
Discovering the best rowing machine under $500 may present a challenge. Nonetheless, with adequate research and guidance, you can identify an affordable rowing machine that caters to your fitness requirements. To assist you in your search, here are some essential factors to consider when looking for the best rowing machines under $500:
1. Resistance Type: Air or Water? Air machines have a variable resistance system, which mimics true rowing resistance. For this reason, air rowers are ideal for full-body workouts, while water rowers provide a more realistic rowing experience.
2. Size and Weight: Make sure the machine you choose is the right size and weight for your home. Consider where you plan to use it, how much space it will take up, and how heavy it is.
3. Price: When shopping for a rowing machine on a budget, consider the available models’ price range. Look for features like adjustable resistance levels, LCD displays, and comfortable paddles to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.
4. Comfort: Comfort is key when choosing a rowing machine; otherwise, it can be difficult to use it over time. Look for ergonomically designed seats, adjustable foot straps, and soft-grip handles for maximum comfort.
5. Warranty: Look into what type of warranty is offered with the model you’re considering. This will help protect your investment in case of any serious issues or malfunctions with your machine.
By considering these factors when looking for the best rowing machines under $500, you’ll be able to make an informed decision tailored to your fitness needs and budget.
Final Words
In conclusion, investing in a rowing machine doesn’t have to break the bank. Given the many choices available in the market, it’s possible to find a top-notch rowing machine under $500 that caters to your fitness objectives and financial constraints. From magnetic to water resistance, the six rowing machines mentioned in this article are excellent options. Whether a beginner or an experienced rower, these machines offer a challenging and effective workout to help you reach your fitness goals. So, take your pick and start rowing toward a healthier, stronger, and fitter you!
FAQ’s
What Is The Best Rowing Machine You Can Buy?
If you want a top-of-the-line rowing machine with great performance and data tracking, the Concept2 Model D is the best rowing machine you can buy. With its unbeatable performance, reliable and robust design, and easily available replacement parts, the Concept2 Model D provides excellent value for money. It is the industry standard model used in competitions and installed in gyms nationwide. This top-end model is beloved by rowers for its smooth and comfortable workout, and it is surprisingly quiet when in use. The monitor is compatible with the free ErgData app, which allows you to monitor your performance statistics and take advantage of online classes and training programs. Due to its uncomplicated design and technology, this rowing machine has minimal potential for things to go awry, making it an excellent investment that can last you for several years.
Does Rowing Flatten Your Stomach?
Rowing can be an effective exercise for flattening your stomach. It is a full-body exercise that engages the core and helps to build muscle in the abdominal area. This exercise also helps burn fat, which is essential for reducing belly fat. As with any exercise, proper form and technique are key to achieving the desired results. Beginners should focus on learning the appropriate form and technique before increasing the intensity or duration of their workouts. Additionally, combining rowing with a healthy diet is important to achieve the best results. You can expect to see results within three weeks with regular rowing workouts and a healthy diet.
Is Rowing 15 Minutes A Day Enough?
Yes, rowing 15 minutes a day can be enough for you to see and feel results. Rowing is a low-impact, full-body workout that uses 86% of the muscles in your body and is great for building strength and endurance in your lower body. It also helps improve your aerobic fitness, cardiovascular health, and posture. With the right form, you can see results after just 15 minutes of rowing per day. However, aim for at least 20-30 minutes of rowing daily for more significant results. Additionally, if you want to maximize the benefits of rowing, consider supplementing your routine with other exercises and activities.
What Is A Good Rowing Machine Under $500?
When looking for a good rowing machine under $500, it is important to focus on performance specs such as the type of resistance, weight capacity, and warranty. Hydraulic rowers tend to be the most affordable, but all kinds of resistance systems can be found in this price range. Aim for a weight capacity of at least 250 lb and look for a warranty with a 1-year parts guarantee. The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge, XTERRA ERG500, Stamina ATS, ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower, JOROTO Magnetic Rower, and SHF Magnetic Rower are all great options in this price range.
Can You Get Ripped Just By Rowing?
Rowing is a superb exercise that can enhance your fitness, muscular strength, and endurance. While it’s true that rowing primarily works your arms and upper back, it also engages your legs, abs, obliques, quads, calves, and glutes. It’s a low-impact exercise that’s easy to do at home, and it can help you burn a significant amount of calories quickly. Additionally, rowing is a great way to increase cardiovascular health and reduce stress. While you won’t get “ripped” just by rowing, it will help you build strength and tone your muscles.
Is It Ok To Row Every day?
Daily rowing can be a great way to get in shape and build strength. However, being mindful of your fitness level and goals is important before jumping into a daily rowing routine. If you are starting out, starting slowly and gradually increasing intensity over time is best. It is also important to nail down your goals and prioritize recovery to avoid overtraining. Rowing every day may not be the best option for those who are completely new to the sport, pregnant, or dealing with any injuries or health issues. Ultimately, rowing daily can be a great way to stay fit and healthy, as long as it is done safely and cautiously.
Is Rowing Better Than Running?
Rowing and running are both excellent forms of exercise, each offering its own unique benefits. Rowing is a full-body workout that builds muscle mass, while running is particularly good for burning calories. Rowing is also a low-impact exercise that is less stressful on the joints than running. On the other hand, running can help develop balance and stability, which can benefit other activities. It is best to alternate between rowing and running to get the best of both worlds, or alternatively, do the one you enjoy most.
What Exercises Pair Best With Rowing?
Exercises that pair best with rowing include cycling, circuit training, bodyweight exercises, running, and cross-country skiing. Each exercise helps reduce repetition, break up training, and build strength, power, and endurance to improve rowing performance. Cycling is a great exercise for the leg muscles and is great for building or maintaining cardiovascular endurance fitness. Circuit training and bodyweight exercises are convenient, easy to do from home, and focus on pushing motions similar to the rowing stroke. Running is simple and natural and gives a great cardiovascular workout. Cross-country skiing offers many of the same benefits as running, with added benefits for the upper body.
Is A Rowing Machine Worth It?
A rowing machine is a wise investment for individuals seeking to enhance their cardiovascular health and build lean muscle. It is a full-body workout that uses 86% of your muscles and can be used by people of any age or fitness level. Not only does it provide an effective aerobic workout, but it also doesn’t exacerbate existing muscle soreness. Rowing machines are available in air and magnetic resistance models, with prices ranging from $400 to $800. If you have used one in a gym and liked it, then it’s definitely worth buying one for yourself. Opting for a rowing machine is an excellent means to enhance your overall fitness, all within the confines of your home.
Is Rowing Better Than Using Treadmills?
When it comes to deciding between rowing and using a treadmill, both machines offer excellent cardio workouts. However, the rowing machine provides a more comprehensive workout with less risk of injury. It works out the lower and upper body simultaneously, giving the user an all-body workout. Furthermore, it is a great choice for those with joint pain or impaired vision, as there is no impact on the knees and a reduced risk of injury. Ultimately, the rowing machine provides users an effective workout without compromising their safety.