What To Look For
Rowing machines simulate the experience of rowing, providing an upper-body exercise and cardio activity at the same time. There are several versions of rowing machines based on resistance types. Piston machines provide a space-saving style with hydraulic resistance. Magnetic resistance models offer a smooth and silent experience. Air resistance models are ideal for taller users and use momentum resistance based on your rowing speed. Water resistance machines feel the most like actual rowing. Adding or removing water in the tank will change the resistance. Look for models that offer the kind of resistance and storage options that will work best in your home and for your workout style.
Common Pitfalls
There are a few pitfalls with rowing machines. Piston systems may be rough and jerky. Magnetic systems are hard to store because of their larger size. They cannot fold for storage. The air models are some of the noisiest rowing machines. The water models are noisy and take up a lot of space, which may be undesirable for some users.
Where To Buy
You can purchase rowing machines from exercise and sports stores around the United States. You can purchase the LifeCORE brand from Lifecorestore.com. Purchase Combat 2 rowing machines from Combat2.com. Purchase the Tunturi machines from Tunturi.com. Amazon.com also offers the Tunturi, Combat2 and LifeCORE brands.
Cost
Expect to pay between $500 and $3,000 for most rowing machine models. LifeCORE machines typically cost somewhere in the $800 to $1,500 range. Combat2 machines cost between $300 and $900. Plan to pay anywhere from $100 to $2,500 for a Tuntiuri rowing machine. Online stores such as Amazon will typically have prices lower than the original manufacturer, but this is not always the case. It is best to shop at several stores before making a purchase. Note: all prices in this section are current in September 2010.
Comparison Shopping
Men's Fitness Magazine recommends the LifeCORE brand of rowing machines. This brand offers models with consistently high user ratings. The machines also have a wide variety in price, so it is possible to find a machine for most budget ranges. Galt Tech.com recommends the Concept 2 brand because of its consistently high user ratings and rowing systems that perform well. Galt Tech also recommends the Tunturi R60 Rowing Machine, because of its smooth ride and multiple program settings.
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