The benefits of rowing machines are undeniable. They are often considered one of the most complete fitness devices available. Choosing a foldable rowing machine from a wide range of options can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. To confidently select your future fitness partner, it’s important to consider certain factors and take specific measures into account.
In this article, we’re going to reveal the top 7 best rowing machines that promise not only exceptional performance but also seamless integration into your living space.
The Best Folding Rowing Machines of 2024
In our pursuit to find the best folding rowing machines of 2024, we’ve categorized them into three price ranges: affordable, mid-range, and premium. Our selection process involved rigorous testing, extensive user feedback, and thorough research across the web.
Make sure to checkout our ranking of the best foldable rowing machines for this year:
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
| Best Overall |
| Check On Amazon | |
Editor’s Choice
| Editor’s Choice |
| Check On Amazon | |
Best On a Budget
| Best On a Budget |
| Check On Amazon | |
Best for Both Men and Women
| Best for Both Men and Women |
| Check On Amazon | |
Best Value for Beginners
| Best Value for Beginners |
| Check On Amazon |
1. Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Hydraulic Rower
The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 is a remarkably sturdy and affordable foldable rower. Its metallic construction ensures durability, making it a reliable choice for your workout routine. With dimensions of 42.5 inches in depth, 58.25 inches in width, and 18.13 inches in height, the BodyTrac Glider 1050 is truly a space saver. Its effortless folding and unfolding mechanism adds to its user-friendly design.
This indoor rowing machine is designed for small apartments. Its hyper-comfortable leather seat will make you spend pleasant moments of home sports sessions. The on-board computer shows you in real-time the number of oars you are doing; the time that passes and also the number of calories you burn.
Whoever said affordable products lack quality? This foldable rowing machine not only facilitates muscle building and weight loss but also enhances overall physical fitness. The advantages of this folding model are numerous. With transport wheels, you can easily move it. It is also equipped with a silent braking system that does not require any maintenance. Stringmaster provides you with a wide range of exercises.
The BodyTrac Glider 1050 folding rower is fully supported by müüv that offers personalized training for your whole family. It is equipped with three traction forces, which makes it suitable for those who want to start the sport or get back into it.
PROS
- Provides natural rowing movements
- Smart fitness App included
- Comfortable and space-saving design
- Textured foot plates and adjustable straps
- Comfortable and molded seat
CONS
- Doesn’t track the covering distance
- Straps could be better
2. Tunturi Cardio Fit R20 Foldable Rowing Machine
The Tunturi Rowing Machine is perfect for anyone new to rowing or for veteran rowers. This machine is perfect for losing weight; toning the body and generally improving your health. It is an economical machine with straightforward controls, making it user-friendly for beginners or casual users.
Just as well equipped as the BodyTrac Glider 1050, this model is also equipped with a training computer with an LCD screen placed just in front of its user to allow very good readability. Also, this equipment incorporates four levels of resistance to adapt your training to your physical condition.
The LCD screen computer allows you to closely monitor your speed, time, and distance traveled, but also the calories burned and monitor your heart rate. On the inconvenience side, it is supplied without the 2 AA batteries necessary for the use of its LCD screen. Also, its seat is not a model of comfort.
Its wheels give it great mobility and its sloping-shaped pedals are equipped with fasteners that give its user a feeling of security. This model is also one of the best mid-range foldable rowers on the market. This selection is like a bridge between low-cost and quality foldable rowers and high-end foldable rowers.
PROS
- Economical and quiet
- Elastomer brake system
- Easily foldable and transport wheels
- Ergonomically shaped seat
CONS
- The build quality is good but can be a little better
3. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5606 Rowing Machine
In 3rd position in this ranking, the SF-RW5606 foldable rowing machine is an innovative model. This indoor rowing machine has 4 levels of resistance control which royally intensifies the intensity of your effort. Its comfortable seat guarantees you an optimal position during your sessions.
Its reinforced steel trim not only gives this model all its solidity but also ensures its user all the safety necessary for its use. The benefits of this model are quite significant. It features a magnetic braking system, which ensures a silent operation during use.
In addition, it comes with a convenient LCD screen that provides all the necessary information. It’s worth mentioning that this model is also very easy to assemble.
The generously sized anti-slip foot pedals, coupled with adjustable foot straps, provide a secure footing. The only drawback is that if you need instructions in a different language, you’ll have to reach out to the seller.
PROS
- Oversized angled seat
- Large LCD console displays
- Durable construction
- Simple to assemble
- Cheap price
CONS
- Plastic
- The maximum load capacity is only 220 lbs.
4. Hop Sport HS-060R Foldable Rowing Machine
The further down you go in the selection, the more you realize the great attributes of a foldable rowing machine. This model combines both robustness and performance, all at the best price. This piece of equipment has eight levels of resistance that you can adjust according to the exercise you plan to perform.
You can therefore work all the essential parts of your body, namely: the chest; arms; thighs; calves… Its magnetic braking system allows you to work without being noticed.
Its jewel of a mini-computer gives you the possibility of having control over your working time, of knowing the number of tractions/min performed, and of being able. Thanks to its SCAN function, you can review sequentially all the data that has already been generated.
That’s not all… The Hop Sport HS-060R foldable rower is equipped with transportation wheels that are intended to facilitate its mobility. It can also be moved very easily. Its handle is covered with foam and the appearance of its seat makes it particularly comfortable. Additionally, this model has pedals with sturdy steel construction and adjustable straps, which ensure safety during use.
The ease of mounting and the automatic standby of its screen do not leave you indifferent. This rowing machine is able to support up to a weight of 120kg while being stable. Its 2-year warranty gives it a definite advantage.
However, one drawback of this equipment is that it may not be suitable for taller individuals. If you are over 1.80m, using this fitness model could be uncomfortable for you.
PROS
- Compact
- 8-step manual resistance adjustment
- Quick and simple folding
- Multifunctional LCD display
- Functional transport rolls
CONS
- The user manual is rather poorly done
- No setting for “beginners
5. Bluefin Fitness Foldable Rowing Machine
Better and better. Do you want an ultra-quiet, foldable and low-cost model? Introducing the Bluefin Fitness Foldable Rowing Machine! This cutting-edge fitness equipment has an exceptional silent coaching experience, thanks to its meticulously engineered belt system and advanced magnetic braking technology. It implicitly offers eight resistance levels.
It offers impressive features and performance for its mid-range price point. Indeed, the Bluefin Fitness Foldable Rowing Machine provides users with the unique opportunity to engage in seated fitness exercises, and with an adjustable incline of up to 10°, it significantly enhances the effectiveness of your movements. This feature allows for a more targeted and efficient workout experience.
Just like all the foldable rowers featured in this guide, this model is designed for easy storage. With a simple lift, you can conveniently stow it away, ensuring that it doesn’t take up unnecessary space when not in use.
Let’s continue with its multitasking console equipped with a backlit LCD screen, which gives you the possibility of being able to follow your training in real time. The data related to your training time, your speed, as well as, the movements performed per minute are delivered to you in a concomitant time.
The height is that its console is also equipped with a Fitness Data function which can be synchronized with the Smartphone of its user so that it can follow and analyze its performances. You can also share them with friends or relatives. It’s incredible but this model only has advantages.
We couldn’t find any downsides that would hold up its image. We can conclude that this model is above all easily foldable and its secure pedals and padded seat give you a great feeling of comfort.
PROS
- Build-in Wireless magnetic technology
- Smooth belt drive
- Ergonomic grip handlebars
- Commercial grade
- 10% optimum incline
CONS
- Assembly instructions are terrible
- No transport wheels
6. Sports Tech RSX400 Foldable Rowing Machine
From the category of high-tech rowing machines, this model will make you forget the amount that was necessary for its acquisition. From the start, it is at the cutting edge of technology. Indeed, this model is compatible with a rather surprising number of applications available for smartphones and tablets. In order to monitor your heart rate, you have the option of using a cardio belt (5.3kHz) during cardio training sessions.
One might think that with all its attributes this rower is difficult to bend, and this is not the case. Sturdy yet effortlessly foldable, this model owes its portability to the inclusion of integrated wheels.
The seat is very comfortable and equipped with a fairly complex mechanism that makes it so charming. It is equipped with an aluminum guide rail and ball bearings. Its seat slides perfectly in order to allow its user to be comfortably off during his training sessions and to be able to train in complete silence.
That’s not all, it has eight levels of magnetic resistance that you can manually adjust to add flavor to your workouts. Its 15° inclination initially allows you to exercise natural rowing movements but also protects your joints when they are subjected to long sessions of effort.
Sports Tech RSX400 rower can support a maximum load of 100kg and its LCD screen is multifunction. In addition, This model is equipped with large strapped pedals that provide safety and stability to the user. It comes with two years warranty. While offering a range of impressive functions, it’s important to note that this rowing machine may not quite reach the level of professional-grade rowers found in commercial gyms.
PROS
- Simple and futuristic design
- App compatible console
- Included tablet holder
- Compact and mobile
- Stable and safe design
CONS
- The screen quality isn’t great
- It moves slightly when rowing without a mat
7. Sportstech RSX500 Foldable Rowing Machine
The RSX500 model is fascinating because it is a technological gem. You have the ability to seamlessly connect your smartphone or tablet to take command of the integrated multimedia console. This innovative integration enhances the overall user experience, providing a modern touch to your fitness routine. Also, to fight like monotony or routine, it can through the Kinomap program follow videos of fitness sessions.
It is integrated with more than 12 pre-installed programs and four 4 functions based essentially on cardiac exercises. From an integrated 5.5 screen, you can easily access your exercises and training data.
In addition, the Sportstech rowing machine offers a magnetic braking system with sixteen degrees of resistance that you can control via your computer. The sliding seat of the RSX500 is ingeniously designed, featuring a ball bearing mount on a sturdy aluminum rail. The addition of incorporated wheels further enhances its maneuverability.
In prioritizing user safety, the designer of this model has thoughtfully included pedals with secure straps and an adjustable support belt. Additionally, the manufacturer provides peace of mind with a generous 2-year warranty, underscoring their commitment to the product’s quality and durability.
The RSX500 is equipped with a flywheel of about 7kg. Its operation is fluid and silent. On the downside, its employment guide is difficult to pin down.
PROS
- Wide program range
- Easy to install
- Low-noise rowing system
- Transportation wheels for fast movement
CONS
- The health app is not good
- Heavy
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Foldable Rowing Machine
Selecting a productive foldable rower should prioritize your unique needs. To assist you in this effort, we’ve compiled a list of criteria to consider. By adhering to these guidelines, you can confidently make a choice that will leave you without any regrets. Your satisfaction and fitness goals are our top priorities.
A good-sized foldable rowing machine
By definition, a foldable rowing machine when folded should not take up enough space, but what about when you unfold it? Still have enough space?
To overcome this puzzle, you just have to imagine in mind the dimensions that your rowing machine will take on once unfolded. Add 50 cm of margin for each side and a margin of 1 meter at the back so as not to feel any discomfort when using it. In folded mode, make sure that your future indoor rower can fit perfectly in its dedicated place. A margin of 10 cm would not be too much.
Focus on stability
Like the first, this criterion is of major importance. Changes have meant that our purchases are now mainly made online. It is therefore not possible for you to test the stability of your equipment yourself.
The trick to follow in this case is to base yourself on the comments of Internet users who have already acquired your model. Find out if the device does not rise or take off from the ground during the pull or if it does not move forward or backward in time with the strokes of the oars.
Silence and quiet operation
During your exercises, you do not need to stir up everyone around you. It would be unpleasant for you, your loved ones, or your neighborhood to constantly hear the squeaking of your rower. To remedy this, two criteria must be taken into consideration.
- First and practical: Be sure to read the opinions of Internet users who have already acquired the model you are eyeing because it is often objective. Above all, do not listen to the seller’s recommendations because he will only be campaigning for his parish.
- Second: We will recommend models with magnetic brakes because they are renowned for their silence.
Adjustability and resistance level
Like the previous one, this criterion is purely budgetary. This determines whether or not you choose a more sophisticated model. You have therefore understood that the level of resistance varies from one model to another. Thus, the low-cost models offer only a limited possibility of tension adjustment. In addition, at this level, the adjustment is fixed or manual.
The difference with the sophisticated models is palpable. This category of model offers a gradual adjustment, that is to say, the user has the possibility of choosing the dynamics that his training must follow according to the effort he wishes to provide at the time. Ideal for not getting bored.
Ability to move your foldable rower
A foldable rower is good, but a movable foldable rower is better. Here, two criteria must be taken into account. First of all, you should know that it is better to buy a foldable rower with wheels for more convenient use. Next, you need to consider the weight of your foldable rowing machine. Thus, you will have to choose it according to your physical condition. The heavier it is, the harder it will be to store it.
The fluidity of your movements
It is very important that your rower coordinates your movements. A bad gesture can cause injuries or make you less productive. You can follow some lessons on the net for this purpose.
Display and metrics
Check if the rowing machine has a display that shows relevant metrics like time, distance, strokes per minute, and calories burned. This information can be valuable for tracking your progress. Some rowing machines come with pre-programmed workouts or the ability to connect to fitness apps for guided training sessions. Consider whether this feature is important to you.
Pros and Cons of Folding Rowing Machines
Generally and rightly perceived as excellent fitness equipment, rowers in addition to allowing us to do exercises at home, have other certain advantages. But who says advantages, also says disadvantages.
The real strengths
With a rowing machine, you are sure not to suffer the pangs of mother nature. You do sports as you want and especially when you want. Of a remarkable diversity, you can in case of lack of space at home, choose a foldable rower. This comes naturally to you given the space you have.
And since you’re at home, you can also row while listening to music or watching a good movie. Rowing machines really expand your possibilities. And with all this, foldable rowers are also at a very affordable price while ensuring quality service.
The negative points
More often, some rowers for home use are not necessarily of good manufacture. This forces most interested parties to spend more to be able to afford good quality equipment, which is the reason for the categorization of these devices. This tool requires a few notions of rowing that can be taught by a sports coach or by watching a few videos about it. Your movements really need to be translated correctly at the risk of hurting yourself or being counterproductive.
Also, in the event of a health problem, it is vital that you seek advice from your doctor before rowing. Similarly, some user guides are real headaches. Indeed, if they are not in English, you have been required to contact your seller before having the manual. In terms of quality, foldable rowers cannot rise to the level of professional rowers. These are more robust guarantees of stability.
Some Postures Before and After Rowing
Here are some recommended postures before and after using a rowing machine:
Before Rowing:
- Warm-Up Stretches: Perform light dynamic stretches to warm up your muscles. Focus on your arms, legs, back, and shoulders.
- Proper Foot Placement: Ensure your feet are securely positioned on the footrests with the straps snugly securing them. Your shins should be vertical, not tilted forward or backward.
- Neutral Spine: Sit upright with a straight back and engage your core muscles. Avoid hunching or arching your back.
- Relaxed Shoulders: Let your shoulders relax down and away from your ears. Avoid shrugging or tensing them.
- Grip and Hand Position: Hold the handle with a relaxed grip, keeping your wrists straight. Avoid gripping too tightly or bending your wrists excessively.
After Rowing:
- Cool-Down Stretches: Perform static stretches to gradually cool down your muscles. Focus on areas like your hamstrings, back, chest, and shoulders.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Replenish your body with water to stay hydrated. Consider consuming a balanced post-workout meal or snack to aid in recovery.
- Reflect and Relax: Take a moment to reflect on your workout. Focus on your breathing to help calm your heart rate and relax your muscles.
- Proper Posture: Continue to maintain good posture even after your workout. Avoid slouching or putting unnecessary strain on your back.
- Monitor Your Body: pay attention to how your body feels. Take note of any discomfort or pain, and address it as needed.
If you have poor health, ask your doctor for advice before you start. The pain that occurs the day after training with a rower is a good sign. This is proof that the work was not shoddy.
Common Queries
Are folding rowing machines suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, folding rowing machines can be adjusted to accommodate various fitness levels. They typically have adjustable resistance settings, which allow both beginners and advanced users to customize their workouts.
How do I ensure proper maintenance of a folding rower?
Regularly wiping down the machine, checking for loose bolts or parts, and lubricating moving components are good maintenance practices. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific instructions.
What is the weight limit for most folding rowing machines?
The weight limits for folding rowing machines can vary by model, typically ranging between 250 to 300 pounds. To get the most accurate information, it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications for the specific weight capacity of the machine you’re considering.
How much space do I need to set up a folding rower?
Folding rowing machines are designed to be space-efficient. When in use, they require a footprint of about 7 to 8 feet in length and 3 to 4 feet in width. When folded, they can be much more compact for storage.
Can I use a folding rowing machine if I have joint issues?
Yes, rowing is a low-impact exercise, which means it puts minimal stress on the joints. It can be a suitable option for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injuries. However, it’s crucial to ensure proper form and technique to minimize stress on the joints.