Rowing machines are one of the most effective forms of cardiovascular exercise and an ideal low-impact form of cardio for people who have arthritic knees.
Even if you don’t normally enjoy sweating, an exercise like rowing is still going to help you lose weight, improve your general conditioning and tone your muscles.
In today’s post, we’ve taken the time to research various models in order to come up with a list of the best hydraulic rowing machines based on their features and customer reviews, as well as a list of things to be on the lookout for to help you determine which rower is right for your needs.
Here are our top 5 picks of the best hydraulic rowing machines:
| 1. Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 3. ProGear 750 Rower 4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1410 |
Without further ado, let’s get right into it!
What Are The Best Hydraulic Rowing Machines?
Given here are the five best hydraulic rowing machines:
1. Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050
If you’re looking for the absolute smallest rower, both in use and in storage, the Stamina BodyTrac Glider may be what you’re looking for. It also comes in much cheaper than a lot of the other rowers on this list.
Under $500, the Stamina BodyTrac Glider definitely falls into the category of the best rowing machines under 500$.
The rowing is smooth, but it doesn’t feel as natural as rowing using other types of resistance(Water or Magnetic rowers).
The is also very lightweight which makes it easy to move around from one room to the other with no problem at all.
The BodyTrac Glider frame supports 250 pounds of weight capacity. Obviously not an ideal option for intense use, but still get the job done as a budget-friendly machine.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 rowing machine is absolutely the best option for those who are looking for a high quality hydraulic rowing machine.
This model features 12 levels of adjustable resistance, which is perfect for those who are looking to get the most out of their rowing workout.
The Sunny SF-RW5639 also features a padded seat that provides optimal comfort and support, as well as a non-slip grip handlebars that provide optimal comfort and support to the user.
3. ProGear 750 Rower
The ProGear 750 Rower is a high-quality, multifunction rowing machine that offers an excellent combination of features and performance.
It can be used in either an upright or a recumbent position.
The ProGear 750 Rower is a hydraulic rower that features an adjustable tension system for resistance.
It has 3 hydraulic resistance levels that can be independently adjusted on the left and right handle bars.
The ProGear 750 Rower comes with a large 1.8″ thick cushioned seat (12.3″ x 9″) and multi-exercise backrest .
The ProGear is ideal for individuals who are looking to get a great workout in a small space, or those who need to work on their rowing technique while they are at home or at the gym.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205
If you are looking for a sleek, high-tech elliptical that will bring your fitness to the next level, look no further than the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205.
This versatile exerciser boasts a whopping 12 levels of smooth and quiet hydraulic resistance, making it perfect for people of all fitness levels
With a digital monitor that tracks your progress and customizable settings, you’ll be able to achieve your fitness goals faster than ever before.
The Sunny SF-Rw1205 has an ergonomic design that’s sure to make you comfortable, this elliptical is perfect for both beginners and experts alike.
This rower comes with adjustable features, including the foot pedals, straps. foam handlebars, and cushioned seat so you can easily customize it to suit your personal fitness needs.
If you’re ready to experience a whole new level of fitness, let the Sunny SF-RW1205 take you there.
5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1410
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1410 is the best compact rowing machine designed primarily for home use.
It features 12-level adjustable hydraulic resistance to choose from.
The Sunny SF-RW1410 comes equipped with a custom-designed seat that is designed to provide maximum comfort and support.
It has a non-slip grip handlebar design, which provides the user with the ability to ride comfortably and safely.
This rower also features an adjustable footrest that allows the user to choose from three different foot positions (flat, up or down) for optimal comfort and support.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1410 has an LCD display that shows time, count, calories burned and total counts.
The LCD display can be used in both English and Spanish language settings.
What Is A Hydraulic Rowing Machine?
A hydraulic rowing machine is a type of rowing machine that uses hydraulic resistance to simulate the action of rowing on a boat.
The rowing motion is produced by either air or water being forced under high pressure through a strider mast, which is attached to the frame of the hydraulic rower.
In contrast to other rowing machines, the design of a hydraulic rower allows for a much smoother and more consistent rowing stroke.
How Do Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machines Work?
Hydraulic resistance is created by a fluid-filled cylinder that sits at the bottom of the frame, connected to a piston cylinder on top.
When the rower pushes down on the handle, the cylinder moves up and down, creating resistance for the rower.
The advantages of hydraulic rowers include being able to create a wide range of resistances and being able to adjust the tension so it’s comfortable for you.
Advantage of using a hydraulic rower
The main advantage of using a hydraulic rower over conventional rowing is that it simulates the motion of rowing on a boat, with all of the inherent advantages such as resistance and comfort.
This means that it can be used for any type of athlete regardless of their experience level or physical condition.
Disadvantage of using a hydraulic rower
The main disadvantage of using a hydraulic rower over conventional rowing is that it requires water or air to be pumped under high pressure in order to simulate the action of rowing on a boat.
This means that it will never be able to simulate the action of rowing on land, making it an unsuitable choice for those who are looking to use it for cross-training purposes.
Features to consider when selecting a hydraulic rowing machine
While there are many factors to consider when choosing a hydraulic rowing machine, some of the most important factors to consider include:
To ensure that the rowing machine is going to be a good fit for your needs, it is important that you first make sure that the frame size of the rowing machine is appropriate for your height so that you can ensure an optimal workout experience.
Heavy duty frame
It is important that you make sure that the frame of the rowing machine is strong enough so that it can handle heavy loads in case you decide to increase your weight during your workout.
Space
One of the most important things to consider when selecting a hydraulic rowing machine is how much space you have for it. If you have limited space, you will want to make sure that the rowing machine is built compactly and does not take up much room in your home or office.
There are some models of hydraulic rowing machines that can be folded up for easy storage and transportation. Other models, such as the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine, are made specifically to be portable.
Type Of Resistance
In today’s market, there are literally a ton of different resistance types to choose from.
The most common feature that can increase or decrease the price range is the resistance type of the machine.
The hydraulic rowers are usually the most affordable. Next comes the magnetic.
Before making your final decision on which rower to buy, make sure you go through the different resistance levels of rowing machines out there to get a better idea on what you are getting.
Adjustable resistance levels
One great feature that many people like about hydraulic rowing machines is the ability to adjust their resistance level.
This can make it easier to adjust your workout intensity according to your personal fitness goals. Some models also have built-in heart rate monitors so you can track your heart rate while you are working out.
Rail length
To find a model suitable for your body size, take into account the length of the device’s rail.
In fact, the longer the rail, the more comfortable you will be if you are tall.
Conversely, if you’re short, you’ll need a model with a shorter rail.
Budget
Rowing machines are not just for fitness enthusiasts.
In fact, they’re a great way to stay in shape and boost your metabolism at the same time.
They’re also an affordable way to get in some extra exercise without having to pay for a gym membership.
One thing to consider when looking for a rowing machine is your budget.
Buying an affordable rower will give you more freedom when it comes to choosing accessories like monitors and straps.
Dimensions
Rowing machines come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose one that fits your space.
One thing to consider using is to measure the available space you have before making a purchase so you know what rower size will fit in your space.
Weight Capacity
Rowers come in all weights, from light to heavy.
The first and most important thing you want to consider when looking for a rowing machine is the user weight limit the machine has
You need to make sure that it has higher weight limits so it can handle intense workouts without any issues.
Resistance Levels
Rowing machines come equipped with levels of resistance that adjust how difficult it is to row.
You should choose a rower with multiple levels of resistance so that you have a diverse range of options to easily achieve your fitness level and goals.
Monitoring screen
These days, most rowing machines are equipped with LCD screens that allow you to adjust the resistance levels and monitor your workout from start to finish.
This means that you can focus on your performance and not on your machine, which is great news.
Final Thoughts
Rowing machines are not just for fitness enthusiasts.
In fact, they’re a great way to stay in shape and boost your metabolism at the same time.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing the best hydraulic rowing machines is the user weight capacity and the quality of material the machine has been made of.
FAQ
Are hydraulic rowers good?
Hydraulic rowing machines can be a good choice if your budget is limited and / or you don’t have much room at home to use it. Many hydraulic models are foldable and can therefore be stored out of the way when not in use.
What muscles does a hydraulic rowing machine work?
Rowing Targets Several Major Muscles in the Body
While using your arms to pull the handlebars attached to the chain and compression system, you are working out your arm and shoulder muscles ( biceps, triceps, deltoids, rhomboids, and trapezius muscles)
