10 Unexpected Benefits of a Rowing Machine

May 28, 2021

Thanks to rowing machines you can now bring the lucrative sport of rowing home. Rowing machines, also known as indoor rowers or ergometers, are used to simulate the feeling of rowing on the water, allowing you to have all the calorie-burning benefits of outdoor rowing, but in the comfort of your home. The once rare piece of equipment are now a staple to many home gyms. In fact many serious athletes, from Olympians to NFL players, incorporate rowing machines into their fitness routines.

Why are rowing machines a must-have for your home gym? Read below for 10 unexpected benefits of rowing.

  1. The full body rhythmic nature of rowing plus intense resistance makes it wonderfully efficient at burning calories. You could burn between 400 and 500 calories per hour.
  2. The full body movement and resistance is also effective for building strength in both arms and legs.
  3. Flexibility will also be improved over time due to the rowing motion and slight stretching of the body.
  4. Rowing is impact-free making it easier on joints compared to a treadmill or other cardio machines.
  5. While they seem complicated they are in surprisingly extremely easy to use. Making it a great option for athletes of all fitness levels.
  6. The rowing movement can be a lot of fun. You'll look forward to your rowing workouts.
  7. Rowers that have water tanks provide a "zen-like" water movement and sound that can be soothing and meditative
  8. There are many inexpensive options making this machine great for those on a budget.
  9. Get an effective workout in a smaller time frame. A daily 20 minute rowing workout more than covers the CDC's recommendation of 75 minutes of vigorous movement per week.
  10. It's a great size and weight for a home gym. It is lighter than a treadmill and many have folding frames or can easily be stood upright, making it perfect for home gyms especially if space is limited.

Need a rower? Shop these popular rowers

ERG160

MSRP $499.99
Site Price $349.99

The XTERRA Fitness ERG160 Rower has everything you need to help you achieve your fitness goals in the comfort of your home.
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ERG500

MSRP $899.99
Site Price $699.99

Sail towards your wellness goals with this XTERRA Fitness rower. It converts wind power into additional resistance with a built-in air turbine to provide a challenging, rewarding full-body workout.
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ERG600W

MSRP $999.99
Site Price $799.99

Bring the unparalleled full-body workout of on-the-water rowing home with the premium design and feel of the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rowing Machine.
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ERG650W

MSRP $1399.99
Site Price $1,099.99

The XTERRA Fitness ERG650W rower is built to help you get the most out of your training. Rowing is known to be one of the most effective full-body workouts around, and we set out to make it fun and accessible for everyone.
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ERG700

MSRP $1499.99
Site Price $1,199.99

The advanced ERG700 Rower provides an unparalleled full-body workout for users of all fitness levels with the added convenience of a fold up frame design.
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Check out these other blog posts you may be interested in:

Best Rowing Machines Under $500

Product Guide & Review: ERG160 Magnetic Rower

Product Guide & Review: ERG600W Water Rowing Machine

Product Review: XTERRA Fitness ERG700 Rower

8 Common Mistakes Made on a Rowing Machine & How to Fix Them

Air Rower vs. Water Rowing Machines


*Offer only valid on xterrafitness.com orders. Expires on 5/31/21 at 11:59 PM ET. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Coupon code MAYSALE must be applied at checkout to receive offer. MAYSALE offer available on FB150, UB120, SB120, SB2.5r, MB550, MBX2500, AIR350, AIR650, ERG160, ERG500, ERG600W, and ERG650W products only. Additional exclusions and restrictions may apply.

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