Comparison Between The Top 4 Foldable Rowing Machines

13 Best Foldable Rowing Machines

1. Best Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine helps improve your fitness journey. It has a magnetic tension system with eight levels of adjustable tension. It provides adequate resistance to your exercise regime. The digital LCD console tracks your progress in terms of duration, count, and calories burned. The machine features a non-slip large textured foot pedal with attached high-quality straps that secure your feet firmly in place throughout the rowing routine. It has anti-slip bars with a soft padded foam grip that provides optimum comfort and support throughout the entire performance. The cushioned seat supports your glutes for longer sessions. Its smoother range of motion makes it a unique exercise gear. The attached floor stabilizer protects the floor from tipping, rocking, and swaying. You get better, quieter performance. The machine has a space-saving design. It can be easily folded up to stack in any corner of your house. It has transport wheels that allow convenient movement. Specifications

Dimensions: 82” L x 19” W x 23” H Folded Dimensions: 37” L x 19” W x 53.5” H Machine Weight: 59 lbs Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic Piston Rowing Beam: Steel

Key Features

Smooth resistance Adjustable tension Anti-slip foot pedals LCD console display

Pros

Non-slip hand bars for support Built-in transportation wheels Targets different muscles groups Cushioned seat High-quality straps attached with foot pedals Floor stabilizers Smoother, quieter operation Extra-long side rails

Cons

Small LCD monitor Magnets not durable

2. Best Budget: Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine

The Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine is an affordable piece of equipment. It has a compact and portable design. It easily fits any area. It features rowing arms with a full range of motion. These allow a natural rowing movement and stimulate the feeling of rowing on actual water. The machine has a steel frame and an aluminum center beam. It has an LCD monitor that tracks workout duration, stroke count, calories burned, and total strokes accumulated. The adjustable, hydraulic cylindrical design helps change the resistance as you wish. The textured footplates and straps enable proper rowing experience. They also secure your foot in place and challenge the specific muscle groups. The entire rowing machine is engineered ergonomically to ensure optimum comfort. The molded cushioned seat offers protection to the glutes and back during the workout session. The foldable arms save space and allow for easy storage. The machine is easy to clean. Specifications

Dimensions: 58.5” L x 42.5” W x 18.12” H Folded Dimensions: 50” L x 12” W x 10” H Machine Weight: 39 lbs Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 12 Resistance System: Hydraulic Piston Rowing Beam: Steel frame with aluminum center beam

Key Features

Comfortable foot pedals Molded seat Smooth ball-bearing roller system Full-range rowing arms

Pros

Adjustable resistance Multi-functional LCD console Textured foot pedals for better grip Nylon attached straps Molded seat for added comfort Foam padded hand grips Sturdy steel frame Easy to assemble

Cons

Noisy piston operation

3. Best For Full-Body Workout: ProGear 750 Rowing Machine

The ProGear 750 Rowing Machine is specifically engineered to offer a smooth whole body workout experience. It allows one to perform bicep curls, shoulder presses, chest presses, pull-downs, and ab exercises. It contains two hydraulic cylinders that are independent of each other. They provide resistance. The resistance levels can be adjusted to 3 levels, independently on both the handlebars. The 180-degree range of motion provides a full arm, shoulder, and chest workout. The LCD console tracks your progress in terms of time, rep count, and calories burned. It has a larger seat with a 1.8” thick cushion to support your posture. The 3 adjustable rowing positions accommodate different user heights. The side rail length inseam is 37”-43” with multi-exercise brackets that keep you comfortable throughout the workout. The large pivoting anti-slip textured foot pedal with durable nylon straps keeps your foot in place while exercising. The foam-covered handlebars provide a comfortable grip while you row. The entire machine can be easily folded for easy storage. You can easily practice over ten workouts with this modern rowing machine. The machine is also easy to be assembled and maintained. Specifications

Dimensions: 53” L x 26.5” W x 36.3” H Folded Dimensions: 45.5” L x 26.5” W x 7.8” H Machine Weight: 54 lbs Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 3 Resistance System: Hydraulic Piston Rowing Beam: Steel

Key Features

Two independent hydraulic systems 180-degree range of motion 3-adjustable rowing positions 3-adjustable incline angles

Pros

LCD for tracking progress Anti-slip foot pedals Sturdy nylon strap to fit your foot Thick, cushioned seat Foam-padded handlebars Ensures proper grip Allows over ten 10 exercises

Cons

No manual included Foam smells unpleasant

4. Best Compact Design: Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine

If you are looking for a full-body workout machine with an ergonomic, foldable design, this is it. The Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine can easily adjust the resistance as per your stamina. Its LCD console helps track your progress and keeps you motivated. The ergonomic molded seat with proper cushioning smoothens your every movement. The machine also has pivoting footplates with nylon straps that fit any foot size. They secure your feet in their place during the workout session. The easy-grip handlebar with foam and cushion provides a comfortable hand grip for shoulder and chest presses. Its full range of motion gives a tough challenge to your whole body. The machine can be folded to a compact size to fit any area of your house. Specifications

Dimensions: 50” L x 36.22” W x 20” H Folded Dimensions: 49” L x 23” W x 20” H Machine Weight: 34 lbs Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 3 Resistance System: Hydraulic Piston Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel

Key Features

A hydraulic resistance control knob Gliding seat

Pros

Ergonomic design Pivoting footplates Nylon foot straps Easy-grip armbars Customizable goal setting Large LCD

Cons

Time-consuming assembly

5. Best Air Rower: ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

The ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine is designed with a long, reinforced handle and a strong, durable cord, allowing you to pull small and large strokes comfortably. You can quickly lock or unlock the rowing frame with the quick-release pin. In addition, you can fold the rowing machine upright for space-saving storage. The wheels fitted underneath the seat encourage smooth sliding while the textured rubber footrests with adjustable straps secure your feet during workouts. In addition, this device features a tablet shelf, grip handlebar, and multi-function LCD monitor that displays distance, time, RPM, calories, and count. You can also adjust the levels of the resistance to have an effective workout according to your convenience. Moreover, the durable belt minimizes the noise and allows you to perform in silence, without disturbing others. Specifications

Dimensions:  2”  x 19.29” x 33.46” Weight: 68 pounds Maximum weight capacity: 350 pounds Levels of resistance: 16 Resistance system: Magnetic resistance

Key features

Smooth seat rail movement Adjustable console displays User friendly LCD monitor

Pros

Easy storage Wheels for easy portability Secure footrest

Cons None

6. Best Compact Magnetic Rower: Marcy Foldable Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine

The Marcy Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine features an innovative design. It includes a quick-release pin that locks it into position. The all-in-one rowing machine can train your upper and lower body, along with improving cardiovascular endurance. The multi-angle ultra-functional LCD console tracks your every movement and gives you a perfect score for the burned calories. The monitor can be folded both backward and forward while folding the entire rower. The 8-level resistance system can be controlled by revolving one tension knob. You can easily up or down the resistance levels as per your convenience. The entire machine is ergonomically engineered keeping in mind the comfort and safety of the user. The seat is padded with high-density foam to ensure optimum comfort during long workouts. The seat dimension (13.5” x 10” x 9”) fits all. The large foot pedals with durable straps ensure proper safety while pulling the rowing cable. The pedals are slip-resistant and suitable for any foot size. They feature a device holder for stacking your mobile or tablet. The transport wheels attached to the rowing machine allow easy movement. The machine’s compact, the foldable design ensures less storage space. Specifications

Dimensions: 74.4” L x 19.7” W x 31.9” H Folded Dimensions: 36” L x 20” W x 44.5” H Machine Weight: 60 lbs Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel

Key Features

Resistance knob Transport wheel

Pros

Easy-to-read display panel Easily tracks progress Conveniently placed pedals Customizable foot straps Slip-resistant Easy-to-operate resistance knob Built-in transport wheels Foam-covered row handle Media rack

Cons None

7. Best For Beginners: Merax Magnetic Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine

The Merax Magnetic Adjustable Rowing Machine has a good build quality. It is a great exercise gear for entry-level rowers. Its adjustable resistance tension knob allows you to easily change the resistance and fix it as per your stamina and strength. It has 8 levels of resistance that allow you to increase or decrease the intensity as you need. The large LCD console can easily track time, count, calories, and total count to keep you further motivated and focused. A sliding, double-padded, and upholstered seat supports your glutes and the entire back as you perform a prolonged and vigorous workout. It stabilizes the brackets to hold the seat into the socket and ensures full safety while rowing. The 15-degree angled seat rail ensures smooth and noise-free functioning. The multi-angled rotary footplates adjust your pedal positions according to the movement. The built-in magnetic flywheel minimizes noise during the rower’s operation, giving a comfortable and effective workout session. The built-in transport wheels and the portable design allow easy storage at home. The entire machine can be folded into a compact size and stored anywhere at home. Specifications

Dimensions: 73” L x 16” W x 21” H Folded Dimensions: 26” L x 16” W x 49” H Machine Weight: 74 lbs Maximum User Weight: 264 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic Rowing Beam: Alloy Steel

Key Features

8-Levels of resistance 15-degree tilt angle Fully padded seat Silent operation Built-in magnetic flywheels

Pros

Smooth and silent operation Provides whole body workout Large LCD Adjustable resistance levels Padded seating arrangement Large strapping footplates Durable and portable design Built-in transportation wheels Multi-angle rotary footplates

Cons

Not suitable for experienced users Basic monitor Poor footrest design

8. Best Heavy-Duty Rowing Machine: Circuit Fitness Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Circuit Fitness Rowing Machine is a heavy-duty magnetic machine made of steel and aluminum. Its ergonomic design keeps your every move safe and comfortable. It features a 11-pound flywheel coupled with magnetic resistance that improves cardiovascular endurance. The magnetic resistance system provides multiple settings that can be increased or decreased for a more efficient and challenging routine. The large LCD screen helps track your progress properly. It displays workout data like distance in meters, time, stroke rate, calories burned, and heart rate. You can also easily set your goals to check your stamina and strength. The foam-covered handlebars are designed to provide a comfortable, anti-slip grip. It has a durable injection-molded seating arrangement to support your back for long exercise workouts. The adjustable foot straps with slip-resistant design provide stability to your workout. The entire setup can be easily folded to a compact size. The built-in transport wheels allow for easy movement and storage. Check out this review for a detailed understanding about the product. Specifications

Dimensions: 71” L x 20.5” W x 31.5” H Folded Dimensions: 49” L x 20.5” W x 51” H Machine Weight: 90 lbs Maximum User Weight: 300 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic Rowing Beam: A combination of steel and aluminum

Key Features

An 11-pound flywheel Durable injection-molded seat

Pros

Large display panel Foam-covered handlebars Adjustable resistant system Hard and durable construction Adjustable foot straps Built-in transport wheels

Cons None

9. Best Large Footplates: Harvil Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine

The Harvil Adjustable Rowing Machine is made of a steel frame. It has foldable arms that allow easy storage. Its LCD monitor helps track your progress. This budget-friendly rowing machine has an adjustable hydraulic resistance setting system with a manual control knob. You can easily change the resistance level as per your strength and stamina. The large LCD console helps you analyze your progress in terms of stride length, time covered, distance, and calories burned. The machine is designed with comfort in mind. The molded seat, nylon straps, and textured surface come in handy during longer workout sessions. The space-saving rowing machine is the perfect gear for home gyms. Specifications

Dimensions: 50” L x 20” W x 36” H Folded Dimensions: Not mentioned Machine Weight: 34 lbs Maximum User Weight: 265 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic Rowing Beam: Steel

Key Features

Large footplates with straps Easy to control knob

Pros

Steel frame construction Easily adjustable resistance control knob Easy-to-read LCD monitor Ergonomic design Molded seat glides easily Safety straps Easy to assemble

Cons None

10. Best For Burning Fat: SereneLife Rowing Machine

The SereneLife Rowing Machine is ideal for sports training, cardio fitness, and fat burning. It has a large LCD console that allows you to monitor the elapsed times, strides, distance covered, revolutions per minute, and calories burned. It features an auto-power system to save battery life. This compact home-gym equipment system contains 8 levels of tension resistance that help adjust the intensity levels. The quite, contoured, comfortable row seat supports the glutes and the back for long workout sessions. The comfortable padded handlebars are slip-resistant. Specifications

Dimensions: 77.2” L x 16.1” W x 29.9” H Folded Dimensions: 39.3” L x 17.7” W x 53.1” H Machine Weight: 62 lbs Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 8 Resistance System: Magnetic and air resistance Rowing Beam: Steel metal alloy

Key Features

Combines both air and magnetic resistance Covers maximum 999.9 miles Auto power-off Get connected with the ‘Fitshow’ app

Pros

Large LCD console Adjustable resistance Smooth gliding seat Well-padded seat Robust handlebars Perfect for low-impact options Pedal-style footrests Tension control knob Easy to assemble

Cons None

11. Best Commercial-Grade: ShareVgo Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine

Now you can do a low impact full-body workout effectively with the ShareVgo Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine. The device is engineered with an extra 48” slide rail that encourages large seating. It has a large tablet holder to keep you entertained during workouts. The compact foldable design encourages secure and space-saving storage. Track your workout distance, time, and total count with the Bluetooth LCD monitor. In addition, by downloading the ShareVgo fitness app, you can keep track of your worksheet. It also contains fun and challenging workout programs that keep you engaged. The non-skid foot pedals with adjustable straps keep your feet secure while exercising different styles. In addition, wide seating and foam handlebars ensure your comfort during long hours of workouts. Specifications

Dimensions:  82” x 20” x 32“ Folded dimensions: 39” x 20” x 52” Weight: 62 pounds Levels of resistance: 8 Resistance system:Magnetic resistance

Key Features

Large non-slip foot pedals Extra side rail to match different heights Compact foldable design

Pros

Easy assembly Smooth and quiet Anti-skid base Anti-slip foam handlebar

Cons None

12. HouseFit Rowing Machine

The HouseFit Rowing Machine is a heavy-build exercise gear that withstands 300 lbs of weight and tones down the different muscle groups. This rowing machine is designed with a high-quality solid aluminum slide rail and a no-touch magnetic resistance that makes your workout sessions comfortable and quiet. The adjustable resistance levels (up to 15) make this machine suitable for both beginners and experts. A large digital monitor tracks your progress and keeps you motivated throughout the session. You can adjust the stride count and distance to give yourself a tough challenge. The angles of the display can be adjusted as per your height. The wide-cushioned seat and the non-slip pedal with adjustable straps ensure long workout sessions without straining the legs and the back. The anti-skid rowing machine with built-in transport wheels can be easily stored at home. Its compact, foldable design saves a lot of space. The assembly does not consume a lot of time. Specifications

Dimensions: 64.4” L x 21.3” W x 31.3” H Folded Dimensions: 29” L x 22” W x 65” H Machine Weight: 62 lbs Maximum User Weight: 300 lbs Levels Of Resistance: 15 Resistance System: Magnetic resistance Rowing Beam: Aluminum beam with solid steel support

Key Features

Special real stabilizer Aluminum side rail Shock absorption system Adjustable pedals

Pros

Durable foamed handlebars Rock-solid build Slip-resistant Adjustable pedals Customized foot straps Ergonomic seat cushion Easy assembly

Cons None

13. Merax Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine

Enjoy effective and smooth workouts with the Merax Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine. The eight-level magnetic tension resistance encourages challenging rowing machine workouts. The device is engineered with a 17-inch wide handlebar with a comfortable grip to perform the exercise smoothly while watching TV or listening to music. Know your distance, time, stroke, total count, and calories burned with the built-in LCD monitor. Keep your feet secure while exercising with the large footplates that come with adjustable straps. In addition, the device comes with a cushioned seat to make you feel comfortable, especially during long workouts. Fold and easily relocate with the portable wheels. You can use this rowing machine for toning out your forearms, triceps, biceps, legs, shoulders, and thighs effectively. Specifications

Dimensions: 5” x 18.7” x 10.2” Folded dimensions: 9” x 18.7” x 57” Maximum weight capacity: 330 pounds Levels of resistance: 8 Resistance system:Magnetic resistance

Key features

Foldable rowing machine Portable wheels for smooth carrying Large contour seat

Pros

Large display Easy to assemble Sturdy Anti-slip foot pedals

Cons None These are the 13 best foldable rowing machines available online. The following sections further discuss rowing machines. The information can be especially helpful if you are a beginner.

What Is A Rowing Machine?

A rowing machine is also known as an ergometer that uses 86% of muscle groups to build endurance, and tone and strengthen the core muscles. Rowing also enhances one’s cardiorespiratory endurance. Rowing machines are available in different types. Let us take a look at them.

Types Of Rowing Machines And Their Modes Of Action

Mode Of Action: Water rowers use a water flywheel (pedals) in a tank of water attached to a chain and the handles. When you pull the handles, the pedals revolve in the water. The mass of the moving water creates drag against the pedals to produce resistance. Mode Of Action: Air rowers produce resistance with air flowing over an internal flywheel. A chain connects the wheel to the rowing handle. As you pedal, the flywheel spins against the airflow to produce resistance. Mode Of Action: This machine works by varying the distance between strong magnets and a spinning flywheel attached to a chain’s handle. The resistance levels are adjusted either by a magnetic slider (by changing your stride length) or by a digital console panel. Mode Of Action: It works on a hydraulic piston that uses air or water to build resistance. You need to pull against the air or fluid inside the cylinder to adjust the resistance levels. The adjustable resistance system is effective both for beginners and experts. Here are the benefits of using a rowing machine.

Benefits Of Using Rowing Machines For Exercise

Rowing is a whole-body endurance sport that strengthens different muscle groups (1). It helps improve total body composition. It is an effective calorie burner. It decreases fat mass and improves lean body mass (1). Rowing is a low-impact exercise. However, it burns many calories without straining the joints, ligaments, or tendons. A study for 8 weeks showed that rowing could improve joint rotation by 30% (2). Rowing improves cardiorespiratory responses by enhancing blood circulation throughout the body (3).

Foldable rowing machines are ideal for a home gym setup. In the following sections, we have discussed why.

Why Are Foldable Rowing Machines Ideal For Home Use?

Space-Friendly: Traditional rowing machines are heavy and occupy huge spaces. But foldable rowing machines occupy just half of the space and can be two-folded to stack anywhere. Multiple Levels Of Resistance: The hydraulic and magnetic rowing machines are foldable with a regulatory resistance knob. But the traditional rowing machines (water rowers or air rowers) are huge and have no foldable options. They do not come with adjustable resistance, and the user needs to regulate it. However, the self-regulating resistance and foldable rowing machines are ideal for beginners. Portability: The compact size of a foldable rowing machine and the built-in transport wheels offer easy portability. Easy To Disassemble: You need just 30-40 minutes to assemble and disassemble a foldable rowing machine. If you do not want to fold it, you can easily disassemble it in under 10 minutes and save more space.

If you are a beginner, a foldable rowing machine can be a little intimidating. The following guide will help you use the machine the right way.

The Right Way To Use A Rowing Machine

Start by holding the oar with your arms extended and feet placed on the wide foot pedals. Hold the handle using an overhand grip. Engage your core and straighten the back. This position is known as “the catch” where you extend your arms fully and bend your knees. With your back straight and core engaged, push back using only your legs (leg muscles), rolling through your feet, and keeping them flat to the ground when legs are extended. Your legs should perform 60% of the work while rowing. Bend at your hips to push your upper body slightly back. You should engage your core just 20% while doing this drive. The arm motion is the final part. Pull the grip toward the lower rib cage. Bring the elbows back while you pull hard. Hinge forward at your waist until you get back to the starting position.

The following are the common mistakes with rowing machines that you would want to avoid.

Common Mistakes And How To Fix Them

Do not hunch your back. It may strain your shoulders. Your shoulders should be back to open the chest and relaxed with no tension when you are in the ‘catch’ position. Engage your core. Do not scoop your motion as you row. If you bend your knees before extending your arms fully, you may strain your neck and hands. Your knees and hands should have proper coordination when extended. Do not raise your arms too high while rowing back. This posture strains your shoulders. Bring the oar just below your chest and use the upper-back muscles to pull it towards the chest. Your knees should not drop to the sides. Use your inner thigh muscles to keep the knees close together.

Now that you are well aware of a foldable rowing machine, we are sure you would want to buy the best. But before you make a choice, quickly scan through the detailed buying guide.

What To Consider Before Buying A Foldable Rowing Machine

Type Of Resistance: There are different types of rowing machines with different resistance levels. Each resistance level comes with its own noise level, storage capacity, and price. If you are a beginner, picking a hydraulic resistance is the right choice. But if you are an expert, you can choose between magnetic, air, or water resistance. Durability and Stability: The material and the framework determines the stability and durability of a rowing machine. Most machines with modern technology are made of steel with aluminum side rails to enhance longevity. Comfort: While exercising to the optimum, you do not want to compromise with comfort. You should check the padding of the seat, the cushioning, and the foaming handles to ensure comfort. The handles and pedals should be slip-resistant. The sliding seat should be properly cushioned to provide support to your back and glutes. Maximum Weight Of The User: The rowing machine should be perfectly engineered to withstand a maximum weight of 300 lbs. Some heavy-duty, foldable rowing machines can even take up to 600 lbs. Noise Level: If you want a quieter rowing experience, a magnetic rowing machine is a perfect piece for you. Storage Features: Most rowing machines are lightweight and foldable. If you want more store-saving options, pick foldable rowing machines that can be disassembled in 2-3 parts. Display/Console: While rowing, you want to track your progress. The LCD console panel should be large enough to track your goals like duration, distance, striking rate, and calories burned.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Aditi Naskar is a sports enthusiast with a Diploma in Health & Wellness and specializes in reviewing fitness products. She advocates using only the best and most appropriate equipment while training as safety, design, and durability are three crucial factors that affect user experience. According to her, rowing machines are one of the best low-impact muscle-toning and strengthening exercise equipment. She researched the available options on the market and shortlisted the top machines in the category. The products mentioned here are designed keeping safety standards in mind and have excellent build and portability. Are folding rowing machines stable when in use? Yes, a folding rowing machine, when assembled properly, gives you a stable performance. Can you lose belly fat with a rowing machine? A rowing machine works on the core. Hence, it may help shed some excess fat from the belly. Along with that, you also must reduce your stress levels, eat healthy, and sleep properly. Is rowing better than cycling? Rowing is a low-impact exercise that puts less pressure on your joints. It is a great alternative to cycling and involves your whole body. How long should you workout on a rowing machine? Initially, you can start working out for 10 minutes. You may gradually increase the resistance and time once you build more strength and stamina. Which is the best rowing machine for home use? All rowing machines are suitable for home use. But you may pick the foldable variant. If you want a budget-friendly rowing machine, go for one that has hydraulic resistance. Can you get in shape by just rowing? Along with rowing, you also need to focus on eating healthy and sleeping well to get in shape. Is a rowing machine good for knee pains? Rowing is a low-impact exercise that puts less pressure on your knees. It may not aggravate knee pains. However, if you have severe knee pains, consult your doctor before using a rowing machine. Are water rowers better than magnetic rowers? In terms of durability and sturdiness, water rower could be ideal. But for a noise-free, quieter, and easier operation, you can go for a magnetic rower (suitable for beginners).

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