{"id":67638,"date":"2025-08-15T00:20:13","date_gmt":"2025-08-15T00:20:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/67638\/"},"modified":"2025-08-15T00:20:13","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T00:20:13","slug":"the-king-of-rowing-machines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/67638\/","title":{"rendered":"The King of Rowing Machines"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to rowing machines<\/a>, there’s the Concept2 RowErg<\/a> \u2013 and then there’s everything else. That might sound like hyperbole, but it\u2019s not. As a collegiate rower, I logged two-a-days on the RowErg for four straight years. 2k tests, 20k endurance rows, power 10 stroke sprint intervals, and even a 50k punishment row for running our school\u2019s shell into a buoy on the bay (yikes). I\u2019ve felt every meter of pain, every blister, and every PR the RowErg has to offer. Any competitive rower will tell you the Concept2 RowErg is what the pros use, and it covers all your basic training needs without any of the fancy tech fluff a lot of modern rowing machine brands throw into the mix.
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The Concept2 RowErg has earned its reputation among elite athletes for good reason. Used by Olympic rowers, CrossFit competitors, and home gym warriors alike, it\u2019s engineered for performance, built to withstand intense daily use, and ruthlessly effective at pushing you to reach your full potential. That said, no machine is without its compromises. This Concept2 RowErg review covers exactly what makes it so respected, where it comes up short, and whether it deserves a spot in your training space.<\/p>\n

Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine<\/p>\n

\"RowErg<\/a>Price\u00a3990ResistanceAirWeight Capacity226kgDimensions96\u201d L x 24\u201d W x 14\u201d HDisplayPM5 MonitorHow We Tested <\/p>\n

As a collegiate rower, I have put in work on countless rowing machines over the years. Men\u2019s Health USA Fitness and Commerce Editor Charles Thorp, NASM<\/a> (and many other staffers) has also rowed some kilometres on many of the best rowing machines<\/a> on the market. Between both of us, the Concept2 RowErg has \u2013 more often than not \u2013 come out on top. <\/p>\n

Our methodology for assessing rowing machines involves thorough testing across performance, build quality, comfort, features, resistance mechanism, and user experience. We conducted extensive performance and stress tests with the Concept2 RowErg through rowing workouts<\/a> of varying lengths and intensities, and paid close attention to comfort and user-friendly features along the way. We used this rower through hundreds of kilometres of testing for warm-ups, cardio burns, HIIT workouts, endurance training, and finishers. Features such as resistance levels, workout programs, and connectivity were scrutinised in detail.<\/p>\n

SHOP THE CONCEPT2 ROWERG<\/a><\/p>\n

Setting Up the Concept2 RowErg<\/p>\n

The RowErg ships in a single manageable box. Compared to the complex, multi-hour assemblies of other home gym machines (we see you treadmills<\/a> and exercise bikes<\/a>), this one is refreshingly straightforward. The included tools are clearly labeled, the manual is straightforward, and from unboxing to first row typically takes less than half an hour. In fact, Thorp was able to put his together at home in fifteen minutes.<\/p>\n

Concept2 thought through the packaging carefully. Parts arrive protected, nothing rattles loose, and every bolt and washer you\u2019ll need is included. It\u2019s rare to open fitness equipment that doesn\u2019t overwhelm you with loose hardware and vague diagrams \u2013 but luckily, the Concept2 RowErg is one of the simplest products on the market, meaning it has a simple assembly process to match. <\/p>\n

That said, the RowErg is not a small machine. At 8ft long, it eats up floor space when assembled. But because it separates into two lightweight segments and\/or stores vertically, it can work in most spaces so long as you have a corner to stow it away in. I\u2019ve even seen it stashed upright inside a coat closet. And for reference, we stored about 30 RowErgs upright in our small college boathouse with plenty of room to move around and get boats in and out without running into an Erg.<\/p>\n

Training With the Concept2 RowErg<\/p>\n

This is where the RowErg separates itself. The air-based flywheel resistance responds instantly to the effort you exert. Pull harder, and it pushes back with equal force. Back off, and it does too. It\u2019s a self-regulating system that rewards proper technique and power, just like on the water. I\u2019ve tested \u00a32,000+ rowers with more bells and whistles that felt cheaper in motion. <\/p>\n

One of the best things about rowing? It\u2019s a full-body workout<\/a>, unlike other forms of cardio (like running and biking) where your legs are doing almost all of the work. Each stroke hits nearly every muscle group. Legs drive the power, back and core stabilise the body, and arms finish the motion. Surprisingly to rowing novices, the arms do the least amount of work. One rowing stroke is 60% legs, 30% core, and 10% arms \u2013 so feel free to correct your friends who demonstrate a stroke using all arms (you\u2019ve heard it from the pros). <\/p>\n

The RowErg is great for endurance workouts, but I find it particularly useful for HIIT workouts. It transitions quickly between explosive intervals and active recovery. In training, we would often go from a ‘power 10’ (a ten stroke sprint) to a paddle during our interval sessions on land, and the RowErg would react to our intensity seamlessly. How? The flywheel cools quickly between sets, which lets you stay in control of your pacing. This flexibility makes it ideal for athletes training across multiple energy systems \u2013 instead of just endurance.<\/p>\n

Resistance<\/p>\n

Air resistance is not adjustable in the same way as magnetic resistance is. Instead of preset levels, the Concept2 uses a damper setting (1\u201310) that controls airflow into the flywheel. It doesn\u2019t dictate how hard you row \u2013 you do that \u2013 but it does influence how the stroke feels. <\/p>\n

Damper 1 is light and quick, like slicing through calm water in a light boat. Damper 10 is heavy and sluggish, more like rowing a barge. But both offer unlimited ceiling based on how hard you pull. If you want to feel like you\u2019re rowing in a shell on the water with your crew, stick to a 5 \u2013 this is about the same level of resistance you\u2019d encounter in a 4-8 person shell on real water.<\/p>\n

Newer rowers often confuse these damper settings with resistance levels. Concept2 provides education on this on their site: damper=gear; resistance=your output.<\/p>\n

Features<\/p>\n

The Concept2 RowErg notoriously skips the technological frills you\u2019ll find on competitors like Hydrow. The PM5 monitor tracks every metric you need (more on that below) without distracting touchscreen features. It connects to Bluetooth heart rate monitors, saves workouts internally, and allows uploads via USB or the ErgData app. If you absolutely need a screen to workout, or even for some entertainment, there is a tablet holder that you can use to hold your own iPad or cell phone. <\/p>\n

One of the best features? It powers itself with each stroke, so it\u2019s one of the easiest cardio machines to find a place for in your home as it doesn\u2019t require an outlet. Adjustability is straightforward. The monitor arm moves up and down easily and the footplates can also slide up and down to match your foot size. The nickel-plated chain rarely needs oiling \u2014 upkeep for the ergs was far less than upkeep for our boats while we were in season in college.<\/p>\n

PM5 Performance Monitor<\/p>\n

The PM5 is the industry benchmark. It won\u2019t wow you with visuals (in fact, it may take you back to the 90s with some of the rowing games it offers) but it will give you everything you need to row with intention.<\/p>\n

\"concept2<\/p>\n

@charlesthorp<\/p>\n

You get precise readings on:<\/p>\n

Time and split per 500mDistanceWattsCaloriesStroke rateHeart rate (if paired with a heart rate sensor)<\/p>\n

Now, about those ’90s games. There\u2019s a surprisingly fun game mode (the Fish Game) where you increase or decrease your intensity to catch (and eat) fish, interval programming options, and easy syncing to apps like ErgZone, Asensei, and Zwift. As a competitive athlete, I most often tracked my split time and set intervals for training, but you bet when given the freedom outside of practice, I was going fishing.<\/p>\n

Portability<\/p>\n

This machine is bigger than some competitors, but in general, rowers boast a pretty compact build and the Concept2 is no different \u2013 plus, it moves easily. The two-part frame disconnects without tools. But honestly, we never split our ergs in college training. The built-in wheels on the front make it easy to roll around without splitting the rower in half (though you can also move the heavier front portion of the rower using the wheels after it\u2019s been split if vertical space is particularly tight). I \u2013 and everyone on my team \u2013 moved our ergs alone. After all, the RowErg is only 25kg, and once you\u2019re using the wheels to manoeuvre, it feels even lighter than that.<\/p>\n

When upright, the footprint is shockingly small, taking up just over 2 feet of floor space. We used to line up 30+ rowers in a small corner of our boathouse and they never got in the way of the different crews going in and out of our boathouse day in and day out.<\/p>\n

Comfort and Ergonomics<\/p>\n

The seat isn\u2019t winning awards for comfort, but it\u2019s ergonomic. It curves with your bottom, and I was able to row a punishment 50k once without any seat soreness. I\u2019d recommend a seat pad if you\u2019re looking for extra support though. <\/p>\n

The handle angle supports neutral wrists, and the slide rail encourages proper hip hinge without overreaching. Though it is worth noting that long rows can lead to blisters if your skin isn\u2019t used to the nylon handle. Worry not, after your initial set of blisters, your hands will callous over and you\u2019ll be able to row the distance on the RowErg. Any rower will tell you those callouses are a rite of passage. <\/p>\n

The monorail height and frame geometry mirror on-water mechanics more closely than other models, like water rowers, which are often much lower to the ground and cause you to take a slightly different form than you would in a shell. For athletes training off-season or rowers preparing for competition, that familiarity makes a difference.<\/p>\n

\"concept2<\/p>\n

@charlesthorp<\/p>\n

Footplates adjust up or down to your foot size \u2013 and while Concept2 doesn\u2019t provide exact sizing, they can accommodate a 6\u20197\u201d male rower on my college team who had around size 12 feet. And if you\u2019re on the taller side, the optional tall legs are worth the additional \u00a3160. At 20 inches off the ground (vs. the standard 14 inches), the seat sits at a height similar to a chair with the tall legs \u2013 a small change that makes a big difference in accessibility and comfort, especially if you have cranky hips or knees.<\/p>\n

Noise<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll definitely hear the flywheel. Air resistance is not quiet. Though I\u2019d argue there\u2019s no resistance (even magnetic) that\u2019s ‘quiet’ per se. But compared to magnetic resistance, air resistance is much louder. The sound is rhythmic \u2013 a low whoosh that matches your effort. It definitely lulls you into a meditative state when logging long kilometres on the RowErg. <\/p>\n

For apartment dwellers, that noise might be a factor though. I recommend a rubber mat underneath to absorb vibration at the least. But if you\u2019re concerned about close neighbours, a magnetic resistance rower may be a better option for you.<\/p>\n

Durability<\/p>\n

These machines are built to work. One of the best things about the RowErg is that it\u2019s very difficult to make it wobble if set up properly. Our strongest rowers couldn\u2019t accomplish it, and it even remained stable when our team’s tallest male rower at 6\u20197\u201d hit it with his most powerful stroke. I\u2019ve trained on RowErgs with over 500k meters logged that still ran smoothly. Maintenance is minimal: wipe the rail weekly, oil the chain monthly, and store it indoors to avoid rust.<\/p>\n

The powder-coated frame resists wear, and every part \u2013 from seat rollers to monitor mounts \u2013 is replaceable. This is a piece of equipment you could truly use for decades. I know a lot of brands tout that about their cardio equipment, but it really rings true for the Concept2.<\/p>\n

How Does the Concept2 RowErg Compare to Other Rowing Machines?<\/p>\n

Hydrow and NordicTrack rowers offer beautiful screens, instructor-led sessions, and sleek designs. But they also cost two or three times more and often require monthly subscriptions. If you crave guided workouts or visual immersion, those builds are definitely more up your alley \u2013 but if it\u2019s performance, durability, and stats you\u2019re after, Concept2 is your answer.<\/p>\n

Water rowers have their audience as well. The wood finishes are gorgeous, and the feel of swishing through a tank of water is quite satisfying. But they\u2019re heavier, harder to store and upkeep, and lack precise tracking. For casual users, they work, but for competitive training, they fall short. To explain a little more precisely, I was rowing Olympic numbers on a water rower that I could never hit on a Concept2 when I was in my absolute best shape in college. (Spoiler: It\u2019s because the numbers produced on a water rower aren\u2019t accurate; they are typically about 20 seconds faster for a 500m split than you\u2019ll find on a Concept2.)<\/p>\n

Magnetic rowers win on noise and compact size. But they don\u2019t replicate the feel of on-water rowing as well as the Concept2. The resistance doesn\u2019t scale dynamically, and that matters if you\u2019re training across variable intensities.<\/p>\n

The Concept2 RowErg prioritises function over technology. That\u2019s what makes it the top pick for athletes, coaches, and serious trainees decade after decade.<\/p>\n

Value<\/p>\n

Commonly found under \u00a31,000, the RowErg delivers commercial-grade quality at a reasonable price point. A lot of the fancier builds cost double (or more). Plus, there are no subscription fees like you\u2019ll find on a lot of the more high-tech rowers.<\/p>\n

Another perk is that this one time investment will last you decades. Additionally, Concept2 machines hold resale value better than a lot of other home fitness equipment. So if you hate it after a couple years (though we don\u2019t think you will) or your needs change, you should be able to get a solid portion of your money back.<\/p>\n

Warranty<\/p>\n

You get five years on the frame and two on the monitor and moving parts. But the real peace of mind comes from Concept2\u2019s community. They offer an exhaustive library of how-to guides, and a full catalog of replacement parts.<\/p>\n

When something eventually wears down, you won\u2019t need to replace the whole machine. You\u2019ll swap out a chain or foot-strap and be able to get right back to training.<\/p>\n

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Concept2 RowErg?<\/p>\n

If you want to train like the pros, track your stats, and watch as your form and power progress over decades of work, the Concept2 RowErg is it. There\u2019s a reason elite athletes come back to it over and over again. I\u2019ll be real with you: after my college rowing days, I purchased a Hydrow Wave machine. And while it\u2019s a cool, techy rower, I don\u2019t get the same quality workout I got on a Concept2 and the stat tracking isn\u2019t as accurate. I know because I know the exact 500m split time I can pull on water and on a Concept2. <\/p>\n

While those tech-heavy rowers offer some lore, nothing beats the Concept2 RowErg in my eyes or Thorp\u2019s eyes. ‘I\u2019ve had the chance to test every shiny new rowing machine that\u2019s been released,’ he says. ‘But ease of set-up and reliable performance that the Concept2 offers is unmatched.’ It has everything you need for a solid workout and will outlast almost all of your other cardio equipment. That makes it a great win for the pocketbook, too. <\/p>\n

More of the Best Cardio MachinesRelated Stories\"Lettermark\"<\/p>\n

Lauren Keary is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and fitness\/nutrition writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is an ex-collegiate rower, and received her M.A. in magazine journalism and B.A. in literary journalism. She has nearly a decade of professional journalism experience and has covered topics all across the wellness and lifestyles spaces.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Her bylines include Fortune, BarBend, Outside Magazine, Evening Standard, BuzzFeed, Modern Luxury, Women’s Running Magazine, TripSavvy, San Diego Magazine, Orange Coast Magazine, Fitt and FoodBeast.\u00a0<\/p>\n

When she’s not writing or editing, you can catch her walking with her dog and an iced vanilla latte (half sweet) beachside or catching a flight.<\/p>\n

\"Headshot<\/p>\n

Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., is the fitness director of Men’s Health and a certified trainer with more than 10 years of training experience. He’s logged training time with NFL athletes and track athletes and his current training regimen includes weight training, HIIT conditioning, and yoga. Before joining Men’s Health, he served as a sports columnist and tech columnist for the New York Daily News. \u00a0<\/p>\n

\"Headshot<\/p>\n

Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men\u2019s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world. \u00a0<\/p>\n

Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he\u2019s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"When it comes to rowing machines, there’s the Concept2 RowErg \u2013 and then there’s everything else. That might…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":67639,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[46],"tags":[35469,35470,35471,7068,35472,35473,35474,6647,102,8466,8467,35475,56,54,55],"class_list":["post-67638","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-fitness","tag-best-r","tag-best-rowing-machine","tag-best-rowing-machines","tag-commerce","tag-concept","tag-concept2","tag-concept2-rowerg","tag-fitness","tag-health","tag-hoc","tag-pillar","tag-product-review","tag-uk","tag-united-kingdom","tag-unitedkingdom"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67638","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=67638"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67638\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/67639"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=67638"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=67638"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=67638"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}