Why waste your time going to the gym when you can start working out at home with the best hydraulic rowing machine? Due to the rise in demand for home-fitness gear during the pandemic, there are currently many brands offering this type of rowing machine as it is convenient and easy-to-use for at-home workouts.
So, why is a hydraulic rowing machine so different and worth-buying than the other workout equipment? The resistance level, weight and size capacity are some of the important features that we might want to look at when considering buying a hydraulic rowing machine, which is why a rowing machine with hydraulic resistance can be your best choice.
After researching, findingneverlandthemusical.com has provided these comprehensive reviews with our top 15 best hydraulic rowing machines that suit everyone no matter if you’re just a beginner or a fitness enthusiast.
Table of Contents
Best Hydraulic Rowing Machines 2024
Table could not be displayed.** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the best hydraulic rowing machine, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Top 15 Hydraulic Rowing Machines Reviews 2024
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Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-RW5639) Full Motion Rowing Machine
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The SF-RW5639 has a larger impact on the users’ shoulders as its full motion arms-design requires more motions.
The hydraulic machine also has a cushioned seat along with anti slip handlebars which improve rowers’ experience. It includes large foot pedals as well as foot traps to ensure safe workouts.
The max user weight can be 330 lbs with 12 resistance levels which is suitable for everyone.
Plus, the LCD display will showcase your exact count, calories burnt and time to keep you on track during the workouts.
Pros:
- Low noise
- Easy to put together
- Suitable for heavier people
- Great LCD monitor
Cons:
- The pistons can sometimes overheat and its oil leaks
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine:
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The SF-RW1205 rower from the brand Sunny Health and Fitness is an overall well-built hydraulic rowing machine with a max weight capacity of 220 lb.
It has 12 levels of resistance, giving different fitness intensities for all users. It’s even easy to store in limited areas due to the compact design.
Especially, the large foot pedals with foot traps are splendid for those with tight muscles like me. They can enable us to obtain the safest posture during our workout
by opening our range of motion.
The padded seat and foam handlebar also contribute to its comfort level, making it one of the best hydraulic rowing machines.
Pros:
- Great affordable price
- Little noise
- Simple setup
- For all users
Cons:
- Small LCD monitor
MANUR Full Motion Rowing Machine:
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MANUR Full Motion Rowing Machine is also a model that is designed to support heavier people with their workout. It can support up to 350 pounds. The sturdy steel frame, the wider setting of the handlebars all come in handy and provide the larger users with the most comfortable experience.
Both the footplates and the seat are also oversized, providing extra comfy. Along with the full motion arms design, it enables a larger impact on the users’ shoulders with a 12 resistance level.
Although it comes at a greater price than some of the others, the quality is worth it.
Pros:
- A great choice for larger people
- Sturdy and solid structure
- There’s a smartphone holder on the console
- High quality
Cons:
- Small feet may slip due to the large footplates
Stamina Products BodyTrac Glider 1060
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This is another ideal hydraulic machine from the brand Stamina.
The users can adjust the resistance level of the hydraulic cylinder by themselves. Plus, the handy LCD monitor is easy to read for everyone.
It goes with textured foot pedals, adjustable straps and foam hand grips. Especially, the model consists of larger footplates than the others.
Pros:
- Reasonable cost
- Easy to assemble and use
- Unique design
- Foldable arms setting
Cons:
- There are some complaints about the foot straps
Livebest Hydraulic Rowing Machine:
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Sometimes, low price is the key contributor to your financial decision and that’s what makes Livebest an ideal option for you.
It’s made of a solid steel frame that can withstand 250 lbs. Plus, it also has a 12-level resistant level that is adjustable.
However, the slide rail is only 25.8 inches, which is quite short. Therefore, this model might not be for you if you have long legs.
Pros:
- Easy to fold
- Easy to setup
- One of the cheapest hydraulic rowing machine
- Extremely affordable
Cons:
- Narrow seat
- Small foot paddles
Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:
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This is one of those high-end workout machines which is made by German.
Its thick comfy seat provides users a pleasant experience during long hours of workouts. Not to mention, the rowers are provided with every detail by a great LCD monitor. How convenient!
The model also includes an innovative frame that can be folded up, minimising the space required for this amazing hydraulic rowing machine.
Pros:
- Minimalist design
- Great LCD display
- Almost quiet while using
- Simple to setup
Cons:
- Quite costly
Goplus Hydraulic Rowing Machine:
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Hydraulic rowing machines are already compact, but the Goplus Hydraulic Rowing Machine is also the foremost compact of all.
If you simply have a tiny space to use, this is an excellent choice as it can fold down to 7 inches so it may be stored under a bed, inside a closet, or put in a corner. The console tells you the time, total count, distance, and calories burned during workouts.
It’s also very lightweight in comparison to the other rowers and still has the weight capacity of 220 lbs. Moreover, the rower has an additional wide seat of 14 inches and a fair amount of padding so it’s comfortable to sit down on.
Pros:
- An extra wide seat
- Very sturdy
- Can be stored easily
Cons:
- It’s hard to see the console
- Resistance level are not clearly marked
Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine:
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Lanos is a famous brand in the fitness industry as they provide high-quality workout machines worldwide. Their hydraulic rowing machine is uniquely designed to focus on full-body workouts (legs, arms, backs and abs). Plus, if you’re looking for the best hydraulic machine that can fit almost any size of a person, this one might be perfect as it has a sturdy steel frame with a maximum withstand of 250 lbs.
The smart console tells you the time elapsed, calories burned, and the row count. It can be read out every six second, which is very convenient to keep an eye on your progress.
The design of the rowing machine is durable with an all-steel frame and has minimal plastic parts.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Less maintenance
- High durable structure
- Easy to set up for beginners and experts
Cons:
- The cylinder can heat up pretty fast
Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-RW1410) Rowing Machine:
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You can adjust the 12-level resistance level based on your current ability. Similar to the other hydraulic machines from Sunny Health & Fitness, the device’s comfort level is awesome as the users are supported with a thick, padded seat and non-slip handlebars along with large foot pedals and foot traps.
Its weight capacity is however only 220 lbs. Still, it provides users with multiple functionalities at a low budget. The LCD monitor can showcase the details Time, Count, Calorie, and Total Count accurately, keeping you on track with the progress.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Lightweight
- Handy LCD display
Cons:
- It’s hard to see the screen
- Low versatility
Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-RW5606) Rowing Machine
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The model has all of the other functions of the other hydraulic rowing machines from the brand. It has 12 levels of resistance, giving different fitness intensities for all users. The model’s padded seat and foam handlebar also contribute to its comfort level, making it one of the best hydraulic rowing machines.
Nonetheless, its weight capacity is up to 350 lbs.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy
- Great price
- A great choice for large people
Cons:
- Lack of stabilizers for the bases
- Oil leaking from pistons sometimes
Stamina Products BodyTrac Glider Rowing Machine 1052:
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This is another fantastic hydraulic rowing machine to burn calories and tone muscles. It has several combined characteristics: easy-to-use, comfortable and convenient.
The model offers a natural and easy aerobic exercise that can improve the entire body which makes it truly worth considering. You can have small, tireless exercises and still achieve body goals.
Pros:
- Large of motion
- Worth the paying
- Suitable for both amateurs and experts
- Easy to use
- Sturdy structure
Cons:
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ProGear 750 Rower
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ProGear 750 is one of the simplest hydraulic rowing machines to use at home. It brings the rowers amazing workout experience with the max weight capacity of 220 lbs.
With ProGear 750, you can do plenty of exercises such as rows, shoulder presses, pull-downs, abs. There are two separate hydraulic cylinders for pressure resistance and 3 hydraulic resistance levels. Although the model has only 3 resistance levels, it still allows you to practice up to 20 workouts and offer a 180-degree range of rowing motion.
Other than that, ProGear 750 features nonslip footplates, a comfy generous seat, and top quality LCD monitor.
Pros:
- Well-designed
- Supports more than 10 workout exercises
- Large, comfy seat
- Great for starters
Cons:
- It might be too low to the ground for some people
Harvil Hydraulic Rowing Machine
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Vibrant color and fun design could be a unique feature among rowers. The folding arms
provide a full range of motion during use and can be folded for storage.
The steel frame is powerful and durable—built to last for several years. It also includes a LCD monitor that helps tracking progress and keeps the rower motivated during workouts.
Small enough to suit most apartments or houses without usurping an excessive amount of space, but still capable of handling average-sized adults with no problem.
Easy to set up with available video assistance if needed.
Pros:
- Unique color and design
- A full range of motion
Cons:
- Only the arms are foldable
- Low weight capacity
KUCATE Rowing Machine
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It is a good rowing machine with a cheap price to tone arms, thighs and back muscles. The hydraulic rower can withstand 265 lbs maximum.
The resistance system includes 12 resistance levels in total. Also, the machine provides great satisfaction for the users with pivoting footplates, foam handgrip, and a padded seat.
It provides a unique feature that allows us to regulate the slope height easily by ourselves and improve our workouts.
Also, there is a LCD monitor to trace and showcase every workout progress info.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Solid structure
- Convenient incline height adjustment
Cons:
- The handle weight might be a minus point for tall people
GYMAX Hydraulic Rowing Machine
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This hydraulic rowing machine is a good purchase that allows you to do full-body exercise at home, in your office, or at the gym easily. It is a singular design that includes a full motion, bringing users to a wonderful experience of rowing within the water.
You can conveniently increase or decrease resistance by lifting and decreasing the hydraulic cylinder with an adaptable knob. It also includes a seat that is extra padded than ordinary hydraulic rowing machines and anti slip paddles to promote comfort for rowers.
Pros:
- It is designed with full motion arms
- Reasonable price
- Sturdy structure
- Simple to use
Cons:
- It has small LCD monitor
What To Expect In A Hydraulic Rowing Machine
Still, confusing about how an Indoor_rower works? Do not worry! Let’s take a closer look at their common features and functions before sealing the deal! Hopefully, this can help you figure out your most ideal rower.
If you are completely new to rowing, a hydraulic rowing machine can be your best bet as they are not only the most affordable indoor rowers available but also extremely convenient. Why waste hundreds of dollars for a bulky machine that will just sit within the corner when you can easily set up a rower and start working out everyday? These machines are also perfect to be stored in limited space due to their ergonomic and foldable design. These models are often foldable at the metal arms (inward), allowing you to store them easily under your bed or in a closet. You can also put away the machine by leaning it on to a wall. These machines also have low noise, almost quiet while enabling you to exercise in every hour without bothering the remainder of your household.
It is because hydraulic rowing machines are cheap, they will not last as long as an air or water rower because they would normally be built by several cheaper parts. The level of resistance will not be as stressful as on other types of rowers. Moreover, due to their simple mechanical design with pistons and moving arms, you will need ongoing maintenance to tighten the components after every few sessions. With that being said, shoppers who are trying to find an ergonomic, quiet and simple rowing machine that doesn’t hurt the pocket should start by browsing the hydraulic rowing machine section.
Frequently asked questions
In need of an instruction on how to use a hydraulic rowing machine?
We’ve included a video instruction above for you. Here is a little word-by-word version:
You should sit on the margin of the seat with it in the bottom area at the beginning. Place your foot on the paddle and firmly stick the Velcro strap over your foot. Repeat the process for the other one foot.
After that, change the resistance level of your rowing machine to suit your ability and turn on your LCD monitor. It will tell you the number of calories are burned, strokes of every minute, the distance and time.
Hold onto the handlebars with a light grip only. Let your legs start the row by lifting them up. Consequently, as they are fully stretched, lean backwards and pull the arms against your body. In order to get back to the first position, both arms need to stretch towards your feet to enable your body to move onward and bend your knees to move the seat forward.
Do as above for the correct rowing method, and you should follow the sequence repeatedly until the end of your workout. The correct sequence is as the following: from legs to core and then the arms (wheing rowing towards the body). Reverse the order to return to the initial position.
What exercise can I do with a hydraulic rowing machine?
The design and operation of the hydraulic rower make it an effective fitness equipment for certain muscular exercises. You can practice exercises such as shoulder presses, pull downs, purls, rows, Abs workouts, bent-over rows, and etc. The exercises enabled by the hydraulic rower are those requiring the muscles of the upper and lower body. Therefore, it is possible to develop muscles such as the deltoids and to improve those forming the abdominal belt. You can also perform workouts using a rowing machine to enhance the gluteal muscles and calf muscles. Professional athletes, experts on the other hand, can exercise the quadriceps and hamstrings actively.
How fast should I row?
The number of rowing strokes you complete per minute can determine your rowing speed. The ideal speed also partly depends on your fitness objectives. So ask yourself questions like “Do I want to burn calories? Should I work on improving my strength or building more endurance?”
Important note: Learn that your intensity doesn’t depend on the speed but the pressure you are working on. It is the significance of an efficient rowing exercise. Slow and measured strokes will demand more force but with fast stroke rates, you will need more stamina to finish the entire workout.
Looking for the proper combo of strength vs. stamina is dependent mostly on your objectives.
Rowing machines will usually demonstrate the number of strokes every minute by their LCD display. Some quick notes that will likely be helpful for you to figure out your ideal rate to meet your objectives (these are counted as strokes per minute).
From 17 to 21: Slower stroke rates would demand more force. If your purpose is to gain more strength then this is a great range for you.
From 23 to 29: These rates result in a great harmony abs and tenacity, getting you to taking on a combo of toughness and cardio.
From 30 to 37: It is surely easier to sustain. However, this rate will require more endurance. Therefore, this is ideal for rush and interval workout.
From 38+: Fast-paced rates like these are excellent for HIIT and practice for races.
No matter what stroke rate you decide to work on, the key is to row in the correct form. We’ve covered this in the “how to use” as mentioned, so please read and make notes thoroughly!
What are the benefits of rowing?
Rowing is an overall physical workout. It is mostly due to the combination of both the lower and upper body parts working simultaneously. Plus, by rowing correctly, your joints won’t be injured. There are multiple advantages of rowing as listed below:
Rowing is perfect for muscle healing and strengthening: an injury in the past can be helped recover by rowing. It would help you strengthen your muscles. It is suitable for rehabilitation sessions.
It promotes cardiovascular exercises: When your muscles work, your heart is one of the most beneficial parts. Another great thing about this is that it requires lots of intensity.
Rowing can also be used for training purposes: If you regularly take part in competitive sports, and you are taking a break between seasons, you might improve your ability by training at home. By taking on rowing, it is believed to be an ideal complementary training.
It causes no joint damage: Rowings can protect your knee and hips joints from unexpected injuries. On the other hand, it assists you in strengthening your bones and keeping them healthy.
Is rowing bad for your back?
No, rowing is not responsible for your painful back at all! However, wrong technique and incorrect exercising form are. Underneath back pain from performing strokes is often a sign of bad form.
For all exercises, the right posture is a must for efficiency. Using the right form and method will definitely improve your abs, legs, shoulders, forearms and even your back.
The key is to get your core activated throughout the whole session and let your legs push only. You need to straighten your back and your chest needs to be puffed out while pulling your wing bone backward a bit.
The correct position is very essential as the first step to practice the right form. Start with slow strokes rates and then you can level up to faster rates.
By using correct form and approach, you may expect to improve your back by rowing with exercises without injury.
Is rowing alright for pregnancy?
It is mostly dependent on whether you have been taking on rowing workouts for a long time or you’re just a beginner. During pregnancy, it wouldn’t be an ideal option to start this type of workout. In fact, if you have rowed routinely previously then you can probably continue with your daily exercise, in the first stages of your pregnancy at least. However, you should reduce footplate holders’ height to lower the pressure on your stomach area and remember to straighten your back straight while doing the rowing exercises. Nonetheless, your legs should open up a little bit when rowing onwards since this will allow more space for your baby. It is understandable that you would not attempt the workouts in the last stages of your pregnancy, but during 6 out of 7 months might be alright. Important note: Remember to always ask your specialist before performing any workouts during your pregnancy.
Conclusion: Our top 5 best hydraulic rowing machine
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