13 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines for a Full-body Workout

Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness Coach
Updated on Feb 23, 2024
best magnetic rowing machine
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Rowing is one of the most underrated but super effective workouts to tone the body and strengthen the back. Whether it’s an hourglass body shape that you are after or a back as sexy as Beckham’s, the best magnetic rowing machines will pave the path for you. You can target a full-body exercise or indulge in simple cardio, as they provide an effective workout without putting too much pressure on your joints. They give you the freedom to exercise multiple muscles from the comfort of your home (1).

Magnetic rowers have become an essential piece of exercise equipment for personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts. They make home workouts seamless, simple, and accessible for everyone. They are the perfect low-maintenance fitness equipment that is noiseless, sturdy, and space-saving. Based on our observations, we have brought you a list of magnetic rowing machines that are ideal for beginners as well as experts. They come with foldable features, preset workout programs, and user-friendly accessories. You have the option to choose from premium rowing machines or rowers at affordable prices.

13 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines

Based on our first-hand experience, we have, on top of our list, a magnetic rowing machine with over a million satisfied customers. Featuring extended slide rails, it engages and strengthens legs, glutes, core, back, arms, and shoulders. Enjoy unmatched comfort with the cushioned seat providing support and coziness for longer rows. The 8-level magnetic resistance lets you personalize your rowing intensity. Perfect for places with limited space, it can be easily stored in compact spaces by folding the sturdy steel rail upright. 

Item Dimensions: 89"D x 18.9"W x 23.6"H

Item Weight: 60.9 Pounds

Color: Grey

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 250 Pounds

Frame Material: Alloy Steel

Pros
  • Anti-slip handlebars
  • Stable grip with adjustable straps
  • Non-slip pedals
  • Ideal for beginners and experts
  • Noise-free magnetic resistance
Cons
  • The quality can be better
  • The Most Versatile

    Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine

    Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine
  • Combine cardio, strength, and endurance, and get a full body workout with the magnetic rowing machine from Fitness Reality which is excellent for engaging all major muscle groups. This magnetic rower maximizes workout without over-stressing the joints. The front stabilizer foot pads allow you to perform additional exercises such as curls, upright rows, front raises, shrugs, triceps extensions, and standing shoulder presses. The compact rowing machine has a nylon rowing belt and ball-bearing rollers for smooth strokes. It engages your arms, legs, and core, increasing your cardiovascular health with 14 levels of magnetic resistance.

    Item Dimensions: 21.5"D x 88.5"W x 21.5"H

    Item Weight: 63.5 Pounds

    Color:  Gray, black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 250 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • 14 levels of resistance
    • Wide cushioned seat
    • Anti-slip pedals
    • 48
    • Bluetooth connectivity
    Cons
    • Not easy to fold
  • The Most Heavy-duty

    ECHANFIT Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine

    ECHANFIT Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine
  • This magnetic rowing machine is your ideal machine with a triple exercise effect of running, strength training, and elliptical workouts. With 16 adjustable levels of resistance, activate 92% of your body muscles and get a full-body muscle workout. The heavy-duty steel frame is sturdy and durable while the improved slide rail ensures silent and smooth exercise workout action. The LCD monitor features an adjustable angle frame that provides variable angles for different heights. This rower is suitable for users with a maximum height of 6’6”. 

    Item Dimensions: 19.29"D x 74.8"W x 34.06"H

    Item Weight: 56.55 Pounds

    Color:  Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 350 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Large and secured pedal
    • Water bottle holder
    • Built-in floor stabilizer
    • Smooth and quiet operation
    • Foldable
    Cons
    • Not easy to unfold
  • Best Space-saving

    Rowing Machine

    Rowing Machine
  • Dripex's rowing machine provides excellent performance in shock absorption, noise reduction, and smooth operation. It features 16 magnetic resistance levels that allow you to adjust the intensity of your workout. Great for total body workouts, magnetic rowing machines build endurance, engage your core muscles, and deliver a total body muscle workout. It does not put over-pressure on your joints, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The ergonomic seat of the rower provides ample cushioning for extended workouts, and the industrial-grade glider ensures that your strokes are smooth and quiet.

    Item Dimensions: 64"D x 21"W x 34.25"H

    Item Weight: 66.1 Pounds

    Color:  Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 350 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Comfortable padded seat
    • Anti-slip and wide handlebars
    • Adjustable foot holders
    • Features a tablet holder
    • Easy to assemble
    Cons
    • The footrest is not stable
  • Best Noise-free

    Rowing Machine, DMASUN

    Rowing Machine, DMASUN
  • Build muscle while burning fat and get your whole body moving with this magnetic rower. It alleviates shoulder and back pain, prevents lumbar muscle strain, relieves spinal pressure, and protects the knees. DMASUN uses thicker raw materials, offering you a durable and long-lasting machine. It has a hyper-quiet magnetic drive system that lets you have an effective workout without disturbing others. The built-in transport wheels make it easy to move the rower without lifting. This is a perfect choice for a rowing machine that you can use at home with 16 magnetic resistance levels.

    Item Dimensions: 62.7"D x 27.6"W x 19.7"H

    Item Weight: 66 Pounds

    Color:  Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 350 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Comfortable seat cushion
    • Non-slip handlebars
    • Adjustable foot pedals
    • Easy to store and move around
    • Suitable for beginners and professionals 
    Cons
    • The display monitor is not good
  • Best Economical

    Rowing Machine, MERACH

    Rowing Machine, MERACH
  • Maintain good health by combining the HIIT method, and a blend of HIIT and traditional cardio with this magnetic rower that is equipped with 16 magnetic resistance levels. It can be conveniently folded upright and stored. The double-track rower delivers smooth, stable sliding and the aluminum alloy rails and upgraded bearings avoid making loud noise from the seat pulley friction. After trying out this product, we loved its feature of a resistance knob, with auto-follow enabled, that automatically adjusts to the targeted range, keeping your hands free. Bring your rowing experience to the next level with the MERACH Q1S smart rowing machine. 

    Item Dimensions: 38"D x 24"W x 8"H

    Item Weight: 50 Pounds

    Color:  Smart Electromagnetic

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 350 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Silicone handles
    • Non-slip pedals
    • Soft, breathable cushioning saddle
    • Built-in base wheels to move easily
    • Easy to assemble
    Cons
    • Makes loud noise
  • Best Full-body Workout

    Indoor Rowing Machine

    Indoor Rowing Machine
  • With muscle activation in two directions, the two-way magnetic resistance elliptical motion rower lets you alternate between working and resting muscles to maintain intensity and maximize calorie burn. The layback can be customized between 3 settings to provide tailored stroke length for optimum upper body and core engagement. It allows you to enjoy a smooth ride with the 22.7 lb inertia-enhanced flywheel and quiet, no-friction magnetic resistance. When we trialed this product, we noticed how the patented elliptical path allows us effortlessly to switch from a pull motion to a push motion mid-workout and the 7 resistance levels offer intense workouts.

    Item Dimensions: 63"D x 38"W x 43"H

    Item Weight: 180 Pounds

    Color:  Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 300 Pounds

    Pros
    • 2-way power with push-pull resistance
    • Smooth ride
    • Wide, quick-adjustable foot straps
    • Multi-grip handles
    • 7 levels of intensity
    Cons
    • Very heavy equipment 
  • The Most Durable

    pooboo Rowing Machine

    pooboo Rowing Machine
  • Meet your sports needs and achieve your fitness goals with the 16-level magnetic resistance of the pooboo rowing machine. The multi-purpose magnetic rower combines aerobic and anaerobic exercises, breaking the limitations of traditional home rowing machines. The rowing track is made of high-quality stainless steel on both sides, providing you with smooth rowing strokes and an almost silent gliding experience. Equipped with an 8-pound flywheel, the machine offers 40 pounds of peak resistance to meet your workout needs, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rower.

    Item Dimensions: 46"D x 8"W x 25"H

    Item Weight: 64 Pounds

    Color: Silver

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 350 Pounds

    Frame Material: Stainless Steel

    Pros
    • Anti-slip pedals
    • Stable and long-lasting
    • Easy-ready display monitor
    • Features a tablet-holder
    • Easy to move
    Cons
    • The seat is not comfortable 
  • Best Foldable

    UREVO Foldable Rowing Machine

    UREVO Foldable Rowing Machine
  • UREVO has designed its rowing machine with an ergonomic cushioned seat and aluminum rail which makes it smoother and quieter while functioning. Suitable for the whole family, it has magnetic resistance from 1 to 8 levels. You can switch up the intensity of your workouts with the convenient tension knob for more challenging workouts throughout your fitness journey. An Amazon user has stated, "We love this product. It is well built, folds easily to put out of the way, and provides a great workout with versatile uses. We are very satisfied!"

    Item Dimensions: 70.8"D x 13.4"W x 22.4"H

    Color: Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 330 Pounds

    Frame Material: Aluminum

    Pros
    • Multi-functional LCD monitor
    • Comes with a phone holder
    • 8-level magnetic resistance
    • Silent operation
    • Non-slip foam grip handlebar
    Cons
    • The material of the belt is not of good quality
  • Easy to assemble

    Women's Health Men's Health Magnetic Rowing Machine

    Women's Health Men's Health Magnetic Rowing Machine
  • This rower has a nylon rowing belt, ball-bearing rollers for smooth strokes, and 14-level dual magnetic tension resistance. Engage all your major muscle groups by combining cardio, strength, and endurance with this machine. Our team discovered through using this product that you can enjoy convenient, fun, flexible, and customized workouts based on your fitness ability. The magnetic resistance is also smooth and offers plenty of challenges. With hassle-free assembly, this foldable rower is ideal for home use. It comes with tools and easy-to-follow instructions for assembling. You can easily wheel the rower around and the folding design doesn't take up much space when you stow it.   

    Item Dimensions: 23"D x 80"W x 28.5"H

    Item Weight: 64.3 Pounds

    Color: Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 250 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Hassle-free assembly
    • Anti-slip pedals
    • Wide cushioned seat
    • Stable and long-lasting
    Cons
    • Makes noise
  • SereneLife Rowing Machine

    SereneLife Rowing Machine
  • Ideal for home gyms, this foldable, seated rowing machine from SereneLife helps you up your cardio levels in no time with 8 levels of resistance. It provides you with a full-body, low-impact workout, targeting your forearms, biceps, triceps, shoulders, legs, and thighs. It has a quiet, smooth-gliding contour row seat and pedal-style footrests that provide comfortable use, keeping your back supported while working out. Ideal for sports training, cardio fitness, fat burning, and weight loss, it is an excellent choice for effective rowing workouts. The assembling is pretty straightforward, with all tools and bolts labeled and provided in the package.  

    Item Dimensions: 16.1"D x 77.2"W x 29.9"H

    Item Weight: 62.3 Pounds

    Color: Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 250 Pounds

    Frame Material: Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • Sturdy and well-made
    • Easy to assembly
    • Easy to fold
    • It uses fan resistance and magnetic resistance
    • Good quality material
    Cons
    • The display monitor does not work properly 
  • JKANGFIT Rowing Machine

    JKANGFIT Rowing Machine
  • Power your body and strengthen your chest muscles, triceps, lower limb muscles, and back muscles with JKANGFIT's rowing machine. Suitable for weight loss, body shape, and strength training, it uses an advanced magnetic resistance system. One user has reviewed it on Amazon as "This works great. It is easy to use and I like the arm strengthening option. I love the counter. The assembly was a little bit hard but it was because the directions were a little difficult for me to follow. It took about an hour and a half to do, but having said that, it was fairly straightforward once we got going."

    Item Dimensions: 44"D x 22" W x 8"H

    Item Weight: 69 Pounds

    Color: Green

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 360 Pounds

    Frame Material: Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel

    Pros
    • High-quality cables
    • Soft seat
    • Fully adjustable pedals
    • Easy to assemble
    • Easy to store
    Cons
    • None
  • Circuit Fitness Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine

    Circuit Fitness Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine
  • Get a smooth and efficient workout and increase your cardiovascular endurance with this magnetic rower's 9-pound flywheel. The seat rolls nicely and the rail has a good length. The seat is made with a durable ergonomically designed mold-injected seat that allows users to exercise comfortably. We have found from using this product that you can tone and define your upper and lower body effectively with this machine that comes with 8 magnetic resistance levels. It is made to accommodate a wide range of users and comes with an easy-to-read LCD monitor that keeps track of your workout progress.

    Item Dimensions: 71"D x 18.5"W x 38"H

    Item Weight: 72 Pounds

    Color: Black

    Maximum Weight Recommendation: 300 Pounds

    Pros
    • Requires minimal floor space
    • Easy to move
    • Comfortable seat
    • Adjustable foot pedal straps
    • Durable structure
    Cons
    • None

    Indoor rowers offer a realistic rowing experience. Out of the 5 types of resistance available in rowing machines, magnetic rowing machines require very little maintenance. They use magnets for resistance, offering smooth operation. Unlike hydraulic resistance, air resistance, and water resistance, magnetic resistance is very quiet in operation. The magnetic rowers allow you to easily control the levels of magnetic resistance manually. Magnetic resistance improves your training consistency. The resistance levels can be adjusted according to your needs, letting you target particular muscle areas and customize your exercise routine. 

    What to Look for in A Magnetic Rowing Machine?

    When buying the best magnetic rowing machine, look for the following points:

    • Design
      When buying a magnetic rowing machine, look for one with a sturdy and stable frame, comfortable seat, anti-slip handles, and footrests. Such machines will promote proper posture and provide a secure grip. 
    • Comfort
      Magnetic rowers with padded seats, adjustable footrests, and ergonomic handlebars offer you a comfortable workout session. They will allow you to enjoy your workout without any discomfort or injuries.
    • Portability
      For working out at home, opt for a machine that is easily portable with built-in transport wheels and a lightweight, compact design.
    • Adjustability
      Magnetic rowing machines come with adjustable resistance levels. Select one that caters to your fitness level. They also come with adjustable footrests and handlebars that provide you with a comfortable rowing experience.
    • Durability
      Check the material, construction, and weight capacity of the machine to ensure its long-term durability. High-quality materials and sturdy construction will keep your machine functioning for a long period.
    • Customer Reviews
      Going through the customer reviews will help you get insights into the machine's durability, performance, and material quality. 

    Right Way to Use A Magnetic Rowing Machine

    Using a magnetic rowing machine in the right way is extremely necessary to have an effective workout (2). The proper form and technique will provide you with the maximum benefits and keep you safe from injuries. Follow these simple steps to set up your position on the rower:

    1. Sit with your glutes at the back of the seat and tailbone in the seat depression.
    2. Place your feet on the footrests and put the straps tight across the feet to keep them secure.
    3. When you grab the handlebar, grip widely on the outside of the bar with the thumb under the bar. Keep the top of your wrist flat.

    Follow these simple steps to go through the four phases of rowing in a magnetic rower:

    1. This is the start position. Here, you will keep your feet on the footrest with bent knees, hands on the bar, and body leaning forward with a straight back and engaged core. Proper alignment in this position is fundamental to performing all rowing exercises.
    2. Here, you will push your body back by extending your legs first.
    3. In this phase, your biceps, glutes, and quads will contract.
    4. Here, you slide back to the catch position.

    Benefits of Magnetic Rowing Machines

    The benefits of magnetic rowing machines are many. It enhances upper body strength and posture. Some of them are as follows:

    1. At-home workout
      A magnetic rower lets you enjoy your workout from the comfort of your home. A busy schedule and an active lifestyle make it easy for you to burn calories without going to a gym (3).
    2. Smooth and Consistent Resistance
      It offers a seamless and steady workout session. As the resistance can be easily adjusted, it allows you to customize your workout and challenge your endurance.
    3. Noiseless
      Magnetic rowers offer quiet operation. As they use magnets to create resistance, less friction is generated which results in less noise during operation.
    4. Low-impact Workout
      You can burn serious calories with a magnetic rowing machine without putting added stress on your joints. It allows you to control the movement and pace of your exercise. 
    5. Various Resistance Levels
      Magnetic rowing machines offer a wide range of resistance levels, suitable for users of all fitness levels. Beginners can start with the lower levels and gradually increase their intensity as their endurance and strength improves.
    6. Compact Design
      Magnetic rowers usually have a compact design and foldable features. They can be operated in small spaces and their folding design makes them convenient to store anywhere.
    7. Additional Features
      They come with apps, pre-programmed workouts, interactive workouts, display screens, device holders, performance monitoring, advanced features, amazing warranty, customer service, and foldable design that help you achieve your fitness goals in comfort.

    Conclusion

    Our findings show that magnetic rowers are the perfect addition to your home gym to provide you with a low-impact cardio and strength training workout. Thanks to the magnets inside the flywheel, these rowers produce significant resistance so that you need to pull with effort to fight against the magnetic force. It creates an excellent and high-intensity workout. The best magnetic rowing machines give you more freedom to change the resistance and customize the intensity of your workout as compared to hydraulic rowers and others. Enjoy a low-impact full-body workout and get your heart racing and blood pumping.

    FAQ's

    How does a magnetic rowing machine work?
    A magnetic rowing machine uses 2 magnets and a flywheel to create resistance.
    Are magnetic rowing machines a good workout?
    Magnetic rowing machines offer a good workout by providing an accessible cardio workout for seated rehabilitation as well as an intense workout for advanced fitness levels.
    Are hydraulic or magnetic rowing machines better?
    Magnetic rowing machines are better than hydraulic ones as they are quiet and provide a lot of adjustment options.
    Are magnetic rowers better than water rowers?
    Magnetic rowers have adjustable resistance levels and they are foldable while water rowers have unlimited resistance but they tend to be bulky and without many additional features.
    Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
    Yes, you can lose belly fat on a rowing machine as it combines cardio and strength training in a single workout. It can effectively burn belly fat.
    Is a rowing machine better than a treadmill?
    The rowing machine is better than a treadmill when it comes to calorie-burning benefits. It engages a larger muscle mass and requires more energy expenditure.
    What is the difference between magnetic and water rowing machines?
    Magnetic rowing machines use magnets and flywheels to generate resistance while water rowing machines use a water tank and paddles to create resistance.
    Is A Magnetic Rowing Machine Better Than An Air Rowing Machine?
    Both types of rowers have their advantages and disadvantages. Magnetic rowers are quieter and give you more control over the resistance level as compared to air rowers.
    Are Magnetic Rowing Machines Quiet?
    Yes, magnetic rowing machines are quiet as the magnets used to control the resistance do not create any friction.
    How long does a magnetic rower last?
    When used appropriately with the correct technique, magnetic rowers can last you a lifetime.
    Do magnetic rowing machines need electricity?
    Magnetic rowing machines do not require electricity for resistance but some of them do require a power source to operate the display monitor.
    Are magnetic rowing machines suitable for both beginners and advanced users?
    Yes, magnetic rowing machines are suitable for both beginners and advanced users. They have a wide range of resistance levels catering to different users with different fitness levels.
    Can a magnetic rowing machine provide a full-body workout?
    Yes, a magnetic rowing machine can provide a full-body workout by combining cardio, strength, and endurance workouts.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified health and fitness coach, Shebna, takes her fitness very seriously. And she wants her readers to do the same. For that very reason, she has brought her readers a list of the best magnetic rowing machines to help them get started on their fitness journey from the comfort of their homes. Magnetic rowers offer smooth and quiet operation with effective workout sessions. She explains the benefits of using a magnetic rower and the various ways it can help us stay fit. Ideal for novices and experts, they can help you have an impactful workout experience. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Shebna V
    Health & Fitness Coach

    Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More