One of the best, yet least used pieces of cardio equipment is a rowing machine. It works both the upper and lower body, is less expensive than many high-quality treadmills or elliptical trainers (on average), is compact and burns lots of calories. According to ShapeFit, a 155-lb. person can burn nearly 600 calories per hour performing vigorous stationary rowing. These qualities make rowing machines desirable pieces of home exercise equipment. Air- and magnetic-resistance machines are generally preferred over piston-resistance (with hydraulic cylinders attached to the arms). Although more expensive, they offer a much smoother workout.
Stamina ATS 1405 Air Rower
According to Travis van Slooten, founder and editor of Men's Total Fitness, Stamina rowing machines are an excellent choice for those who are looking for a value-priced machine built from quality materials. He recommends it as an affordable pick as well. The Stamina ATS 1405 Air Rower offers a comfortable molded seat that is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy a longer workout. It has an over-sized chrome seat rail for smooth sliding, wheels for easy portability (folds for easy storage) and an electronic performance monitor, which enables the user to track speed, distance, time and calories burned. It also comes with floor protectors to prevent skidding. This machine is made from steel and supports a user weight of 250 lb. It is available through BigFitness.com for $424 (2010 price).
Bodycraft vr100
The Bodycraft vr100 is a mid-priced piece of home exercise equipment ($699, 2010 price) that doesn't skimp on quality and offers features not available on other models. For example, the Bodycraft vr100 offers two types of resistance, air and magnetic, for maximum workout variety. The LCD monitor allows you to track such things as total calories burned, stroke count and speed. The machine offers a comfortable ergonomic seat for a smooth ride. It is made with aircraft-grade aluminum supported by a steel frame. A bonus feature is that this rower folds up, making it a good choice for storing in smaller spaces, such as apartments. Its stable-quality build, adjustable resistance and affordable price are some of the features that, according to the Trainer Secrets website, make it a "best in class."
Concept 2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
The Concept 2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine offers all of the bells and whistles, including a performance monitor (PM), and is rated as the best "air resistance" rower on the market, according to Exercise Equipment Review. The PM tracks calories burned, distance, speed and pace. Concept 2 models feature a flywheel design that reduces noise and facilitates a fluid, smooth rowing motion. An adjustable damper setting enables you to control resistance from the flywheel. The maximum setting of 10 results in the greatest amount of air flowing through the flywheel. Although this machine weighs only 57 lb., it supports a user weight of 500 lb., according to Exercise-Equipment-Advisor.com. You can purchase this machine online starting at $900 plus shipping and handling (2010 price).
References
- Men's Total Fitness: Stamina Rowing Machines - A Good Value for the Budget Minded
- Big Fitness: Rowing Machine - Stamina ATS 1405 Air Rower
- Trainer Secrets: Bodycraft vr100 Rowing Machine Review
- Exercise Equipment Review: A Comparison of Rowing Machines
- Exercise-Equipment-Advisor: Concept 2 Rowing Machine Review
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