Overview
There are many tools out there that can help you train harder and get closer to your dream body than you might think. Rowing machines are great for training the whole body because they work the upper back, shoulders, core, and legs. Most people can pay for the best rowing machine under $500 at once. We've found a few brands of rowing machines that cost less than $500 and have everything you need for a challenging workout or just a relaxing evening stroll.
Users' Picks
Best Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Best Value: Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500
Best Powerful: Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine
Best Budget: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Best Compact: Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Hydraulic Rowing Machine
In-Depth Reviews for Top 4 Rowing Machines Under $500
1. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Reason to buy
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Simple digital monitor that is easy to read
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Eight levels of strength
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Extra-long slide rail
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Grip and foot pads that don't slip
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 is the best overall pick for less than $500. This rower is sleek and can be folded up. With the turn of a dial, you can choose from eight levels of magnetic resistance.
The 48-inch long slide rail, ideal for tall people, folds away for easy storage, making this rower stand apart. The digital monitor, set to show just one metric or all of them, is used to keep track of progress.
This rower has a handle that won't slip and textured foot pedals that go well with the padded seat. There are wheels and stabilizers built into the frame, so you can put it wherever you need to.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500
Reason to buy
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It can be stored on its side
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Works with ANT+ technology
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R2 fitness meter
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The high amount of weight
The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 is a big win for you because it was our top choice for the best water rowing machine because it has great features and works as it should.
It's easy to see how much water to put in the tank to get the resistance you want. Water rowers utilize flywheels and fan blades to propel water for the most authentic rowing workout you'll ever experience.
With a non-slip grip, adjustable foot pedals, and a broad cushioned seat, the rower Obsidian Surge 500 is similar to other rowers. The R2 fitness meter has the best multi-metric display and is at eye level.
3. Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine
Reason to buy
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Watching videos is possible because it's quiet.
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48-inch rail slide
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14 levels of resistance
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Connects to the MyCloudFitness app
The information age has led to a strong desire to keep track of every workout's metrics and data. The Fitness Reality 1000 Plus is a perfect example of how this need to track can be combined with Bluetooth.
The 1000 Plus rower was made to work with the MyCloudFitness app and can also be used with Apple Health and Google Fit. It uses magnets to give you 14 levels of resistance that will push your idea of what it means to be fit.
The alloy steel frame includes a 48-inch slide rail for tall rowers and a maximum user weight of 250 pounds. You'll be well-secured with the hook-and-loop flexible strap and the big ankle pockets on the foot pedals.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Reason to buy
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12 levels of resistance
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Lightweight
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Minimal footprint
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Digital monitor
Even though the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 looks silly, hydraulic rowers are a cheap way to improve your fitness level. The resistance is provided by a hydraulic cylinder attached to the rowing arm and has a dial with 12 different difficulty levels.
With no turbines, flywheels, or magnets required, this rower is lightweight at just 21 pounds. The rower is easy to store or move because it is small and doesn't take up much space. As with other models, Sunny's has adjustable footpads and a shaped seat to keep you safe and comfortable while you work out.
FAQs
1. Is it hard on the knees to row?
Many machines, like recumbent exercise bikes, indoor rowers, or upright bikes, require a lot of knee movement. People with knee problems may find this uncomfortable or worsen their pain.
2. How long should I use a rowing machine?
Everyone has a different fitness goal and a different amount of time to reach it. But consistency is the most important thing when it comes to losing weight.
Most people who want to lose weight should try to row for at least 30 minutes every day, four to six times a week, or more. Some people instead do 15 minutes of high-intensity workouts every day, which can help them lose weight just as well or even better.
3. How heavy is a rowing machine?
Rowing machines have different weights, but most are between 35 and 90 pounds. Most hydraulic rowing machines weigh less than 40 pounds, while most water rowing machines weigh more than 70 pounds.
All your needs and then some should be met by the most fantastic rowing machine. As a result, it's critical to spend some time defining exactly what it is you require. As you should know, getting the best rowing machine under $500 is not difficult, and there are many good alternatives in this price range.