Rowing Crazy

About Petra Amara

Written by Petra Amara - RowingCrazy.com
CEO & Founder of RowingCrazy, National Rower, Coxswain Womens Eight Team, Rowing Coach & Writer

Petra is a Mother of two and owner of Rowingcrazy.com. Petra lives and breathes rowing, she also has a passion for writing which lead her to start RowingCrazy.com to share her rowing experience and expertise with others.

Learn More About Petra Here!

What Cardio Machine Burns the Most Calories? 2026

what cardio machine burns the most calories

If you’ve put on some pounds in the past year, you aren’t alone. With an estimated 2/3rds of American’s being either overweight or obese, it’s no wonder that everyone is looking for a way to burn the most calories.

Of course, it takes more than calorie burning to lose weight. Someone once said that you could run all day but you may not lose weight because you can’t outrun your fork. Healthy eating is also key.

It makes sense that you want cardio equipment that will burn fat in the least amount of time. Who wants to spend more time exercising than they need to, right?

There are cardio machines and then there are super fat-burning cardio machines, and on top of the list of machines that really blast stubborn fat like a power washer are indoor rowers and elliptical combos.

Today’s article is dedicated to everyone who wants to lose weight using the best exercise machine around.

Keep reading because this article is going to be a real eye-opener.

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top 3 Picks:

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are my top picks for the best cardio machine with greatest caloric burn:

  1. Teeter Power10
  2. Hydrow Rowing Machine
  3. The Ergatta

You can read my full breakdown and review on each individual machine further down in this article, where we go into our findings for each machine.

Hydrow SAVE $125!! => Use Coupon Code:  ROWINGCRAZY read more

What Cardio Machine Burns the Most Calories? 2026 Read More »

Water Rower vs Air Rower 2026 – Which Is Better?

Water Rower vs Air Rower

Deciding what rowing machine is right for you can be a tough decision. When you start researching the different types of rowing machines it can be a bit overwhelming.

In a Hurry?  Here are the Rowers We Are Comparing:

Short on time but still want to know which rower is better between an air rower or water rower? Check out our answers by clicking on the links below:

  1. Hydrow Rowing Machine
  2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine read more

Water Rower vs Air Rower 2026 – Which Is Better? Read More »

Aviron Vs Ergatta 2026: Top Gaming Rowers Compared

aviron vs ergatta

If you’ve narrowed down your picks to Ergatta or Aviron, but you’re still having trouble choosing, I understand. I really do! Everything from the looks to the resistance is different, so how do you go about choosing?

Buying a new rowing machine can be pretty confusing. Try typing ‘rowing machine’ on the search bar, and you’ll see how overwhelming the results will be. Water resistance, air or magnetic resistance, with or without instructors, wood or steel, connected, gamified, recorded or live workouts – there’s a whole lot of choices out there.

In a Hurry?  Here are the Rowers We Are Comparing:

If you are short on time and want to know which machine is better between Ergatta and the Aviron rower click on the links below:

  1. Ergatta Water Rower
  2. Aviron Strong and Impact Series

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

To help you make an informed decision on which rowing machine to purchase, we have conducted a thorough evaluation of each machine, which we will share in detail in the upcoming sections of this article.

Our Promise to You:

 

 We have extensively trialed and tested both these machines at our office with our expert rowers. We have compiled the following findings for your benefit and hope you find the below information that our team discovered helpful: read more

Aviron Vs Ergatta 2026: Top Gaming Rowers Compared Read More »

9 Best Rowers Under 1000 for Beginners 2026

best rowers under 1000

Most people have discovered that going to the gym isn’t all that great. Working out from home is far superior! No traffic, no worries about finding parking, sharing shower rooms, or having your locker broken into, and perhaps best of all, no waiting on a rowing machine!

If you’re a novice rower who wants to purchase a rowing machine, you’ll have plenty of choices, but that’s also a problem. With all those choices, which is the best rowing machine? You want all the benefits of rowing, and you don’t want something that will break easily.

Add to that your concerns over your budget. Everyone has a budget, and if you want to find the best rowing machine for under a grand, well, that only complicates the matter.

read more

9 Best Rowers Under 1000 for Beginners 2026 Read More »

Best Rowing Machines Under 200 That Will Last 2026

Best Rowing Machines Under 200 That Will Last!

If you are on a budget, you will still be able to find a great rowing machine for under $200. When looking for a rowing machine under 200, you probably want to start your search with Sunny Health Fitness SF, as they make a variety of rowing machines that work on a budget.

Rowing machines like the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 and the Health Fitness SF RW1205 give you all the great benefits of the best rowing machine you can buy but are available at a lot cheaper prices than some of the more expensive options on the market.

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top 5 Picks:

If you’re pressed for time and simply want to find the best rowing machine under $200, here are my recommended choices:

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW560
  2. Stamina Body Trac
  3. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW1205
  4. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5639
  5. Sunny Health and Fitness Squat Assist Row-N-Ride

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

You can read my full breakdown and review on each individual machine further down in this article, where we go into our findings for each machine.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

Whether you are looking for a hydraulic rowing machine or a magnetic rowing machine, you should be able to find one in your budget. There are a lot of factors to consider from resistance levels to seat height, to LCD monitors. We will break down everything you need to know about finding a great rowing machine even if you are on a tight budget.

How to Shop for Great Rowing Machines Under 200

Why are you shopping for a rowing machine? Think about the why before you start shopping as that is going to tell you what to shop for and help you figure out what your priorities are. Are you looking more to build strength and muscle mass or are you more after a cardio workout? Think about these factors as you start your shopping.

You might not think $200 is a lot of money, but you can find some great budget rowing machines under 200 if you just know where to look. Take a look at some of the best rowing machines that are available for purchase even on a tight monetary constraint.

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW560

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Best Rowing Machines Under 200 That Will Last 2026 Read More »

CityRow Vs Hydrow 2026: Who Won & Why?

CityRow Vs Hydrow

It seems as if everyone wants to work out from home nowadays, and indoor rowing machines are the hottest new pieces of home workout equipment.

For those who have narrowed down their choices to the CityRow Go or the Hydrow (How cute! It rhymes!), I can understand the difficult choices you’re trying to make.

People want to get the most and the best for their hard-earned money, and choosing a rowing machine is no different. So how can you avoid getting a machine that doesn’t really match your workout style?

In this article, I will spill the beans and let you in on a few secrets regarding the CityRow Go and the Hydrow so you pick the perfect machine for your home gym.

Whether you’re a busy mom or a professional who simply can’t find time to hit the local gym, or if you’re just sick and tired of the parking issues and waiting times at your local gym, buying your own piece of fitness equipment makes perfect sense.

In a Hurry?  Here are the Rowers We Are Comparing:

If you are short on time you can check the prices on the links below and the main differences between the machines.  We also have an exclusive $125 discount off the Hydrow Rower (see Coupon Details further down).

  1. Hydrow Rower
  2. CityRow Go Max

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

There are lots of newcomers to the indoor rowing market with older models, such as the Concept2, getting a real run for the money against smart rowers, such as the Ergatta, Hydrow, and now from CityRow Go.

Features Hydrow CityRow
Resistance Type Electromagnetic Water
Screen Size 22 inches 14 inches
Live Classes Yes No
Storage Vertical Horizontal
Heart Rate Monitor Yes No

You can read my full breakdown and review on each individual rower further down in this article, where I discuss my findings for each machine after months of hands on testing by our team of rowing experts.  Right lets get into it!

The Hydrow Vs CityRow Go

First off, let me say that I believe both of these machines have a lot to offer. In many instances, I think it’s a matter of your workout preference and your budget. People are all different, and what is a perfect workout for some is definitely not perfect for others.

 

Think of the CityRow Go and the Hydrow as smart rowers, much like your smartphone. You can connect these rowing machines so that you get the ultimate in a home rowing experience.

Whether you plan to use this in the big city or down on the farm, in your garage or in the bedroom, either of these will work nicely in your home. Let’s look into the major differences between the Hydrow and the CityRow Go so you can come out on top.  FYI:  You might also like to read our other article LIT Method vs Hydrow

CityRow Go vs Ergatta Rowers!

The Hydrow Rowing Machine

Hydrow SAVE $125!! => Use Coupon Code:  ROWINGCRAZY read more

CityRow Vs Hydrow 2026: Who Won & Why? Read More »

5 Best Elliptical Machine for 300 lb Weight Capacity 2026

Elliptical Machine 300 lb weight capacity

If you’re looking for an elliptical trainer that can handle users up to 300 pounds, you might have discovered that the selection isn’t as wide as you had hoped for.

Buying a machine with the wrong weight capacity can mean you’re stuck with pieces of it in a trash bag after it self-destructs a few months after the warranty ends. Or you could also end up paying through the nose for a machine you don’t really enjoy using. Either way, it’s not going to be a good experience.

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top 5 Picks:

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, below are my top picks for ellipticals with a 300lb weight capacity:

  1. Teeter Power 10 Elliptical Rower
  2. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer
  3. Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
  4. Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent 
  5. HCI Fitness Physio Step

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

You can read my full breakdown and review on each individual machine further down in this article.

Whether you want to lose weight, or you’re a bodybuilder who has bulked up and who is looking for a great cardio workout that is easy on the joints, an elliptical machine is a perfect answer. However, finding an elliptical trainer with 300-pound weight limit is another story.

Don’t worry, I’ve taken all the guesswork out of finding perfect elliptical machines for heavyweights.

In today’s article, I’m going to show you the top elliptical trainers that can take all the abuse you can dish out and still remain standing.

Best Elliptical Machine Options with 300 lb Weight Capacity

The following elliptical machines can all handle users up to 300 pounds. While they all differ slightly from each other, like all elliptical machines, they are easy on the joints, offering a low-impact workout that elevates your heart rate.

1. Teeter Power10 Elliptical Rower 

Get the Best Deal at Teeter   Compare on Amazon read more

5 Best Elliptical Machine for 300 lb Weight Capacity 2026 Read More »

Echelon Vs NordicTrack Rower 2026- The Winner Is…

echelon vs nordictrack rower

Hi everyone, it’s Petra, and if you’re having trouble choosing between the NordicTrack rowers and the Echelon smart rower, then this article is for you.

Buying a smart rower for your home gym is a big investment. You want to be sure that you are getting the perfect rowing machine, not a big clothes hanger!

In a Hurry?  Here are the Rowers We Are Comparing:

Want to know which rower is the best between Echelon or NordicTrack rowers but don’t have time to read the whole article? Click on the links below to get our answers.

  1. NordicTrack Rowing Machines
  2. Echelon Row S Smart Rower

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

This article will provide a comprehensive review of these rowing machines, examining each one closely and sharing our discoveries for each machine.

Without Further Delay, Let’s Begin!

At first glance, the Echelon S and the NordicTrack rowers seem the same (compare NordicTrack Rower vs Concept 2 ) , and to be honest, many of the features are pretty much identical. However, there are a few major differences that you should know before you buy.

Echelon or NordicTrack? Let’s get right down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?

Comparison Chart – Echelon Vs NordicTrack Rowers

Before we go into the details, here’s a comparison chart to quickly give you an idea about how these models compare. In a glance, you’ll know the floor space each model requires, their weight capacity, resistance type, and more.

Features Echelon NordicTrack RW600 NordicTrack RW700 NordicTrack RW900
Resistance Type Magnetic Resistance Magnetic and Air Resistance Magnetic and Air Resistance Magnetic and Air Resistance
Bluetooth-Enabled Yes Yes Yes Yes
Overall Dimensions 49.5 x 25 x 17 inches 87.02 x 22 x 47.24 inches 87.0 x 22.0 x 47 inches  ‎86.5 x 22 x 50.4 inches
Stored Dimensions 2.5′ x 4.0′ 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high
Maximum User Weight Capacity 300 Pounds 250 Pounds 250 Pounds 250 Pounds
Machine Weight 123 Pounds 117 Pounds 117 Pounds 130.6 Pounds
Echelon
Resistance Type Magnetic Resistance
Bluetooth-Enabled Yes
Overall Dimensions 49.5 x 25 x 17 inches
Stored Dimensions 2.5′ x 4.0′
Maximum User Weight Capacity 300 Pounds
Machine Weight 123 Pounds
NordicTrack RW600
Resistance Type Magnetic and Air Resistance
Bluetooth-Enabled Yes
Overall Dimensions 87.02 x 22 x 47.24 inches
Stored Dimensions 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high
Maximum User Weight Capacity 250 Pounds
Machine Weight 117 Pounds
NordicTrack RW700
Resistance Type Magnetic and Air Resistance
Bluetooth-Enabled Yes
Overall Dimensions 87.0 x 22.0 x 47 inches
Stored Dimensions 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high
Maximum User Weight Capacity 250 Pounds
Machine Weight 117 Pounds
NordicTrack RW900
Resistance Type Magnetic and Air Resistance
Bluetooth-Enabled Yes
Overall Dimensions ‎86.5 x 22 x 50.4 inches
Stored Dimensions 4’ x 2 ‘ x 4’ high
Maximum User Weight Capacity 250 Pounds
Machine Weight 130.6 Pounds

NordicTrack Rowing Machines

First, let me break down the differences between the three models of rowing machines that are made by NordicTrack.

There are the RW600, RW700, and the RW900. All these rowing machines by NordicTrack have similar features, with the main difference being the size of the monitor.

Get the Best Deal at NordicTrack  Compare on Amazon read more

Echelon Vs NordicTrack Rower 2026- The Winner Is… Read More »

Is It Worth Buying a Rowing Machine? 2026

is it worth buying a rowing machine

If you are reading this, chances are that you have been seriously considering is it worth buying a rowing machine for your home gym or wondering should I get a rowing machine?

That’s not surprising. Ever since Kevin Spacey used a water rower in the series House of Cards, it seems as though everyone has just “discovered” rowing!

The problem is that you can practically get “lost” reading about all the hundreds of different rowing machines available (however check out Oprah’s Favorite Rower – Yes she loves rowing as well!)

This can cause some people to just throw up their hands and say, “Forget it,” or they pick the cheapest rower they see. Or the most expensive. Or the one they see at their local gym.

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

None of the above might be the best choice depending on your situation.

In today’s article, I want to tell you about the reasons why you should own an indoor rowing machine and which one is the best for you. This is important because no one wants to spend their hard-earned money on a piece of exercise equipment that turns into nothing more than a giant clothes rack.

Are you picturing your treadmill that is currently in the garage and covered with a sheet and several patio chairs? Yeah, that’s what I mean.

Let’s avoid the clothes rack scenario and talk about the benefits of buying your own rowing machine and which one will be the best for you.

Is a Rowing Machine Really Worth It?

A rowing machine is a full-body exercise equipment that benefits most people in different age groups and fitness levels, so there’s no doubt that it’s worth having.

However, before you buy an indoor rowing machine, you should first ask yourself this important question: Will you use it?

Buying a Thighmaster (remember those?) that you used a half dozen times, then tucked away in the closet, and later gave it away to Goodwill is one thing. You were out about $20, and it took up no more space than a pair of boots.

Buying a rowing machine is another thing. You might spend a few grand for it, and even the ones that fold or are stored upright can take up quite a bit of space.

If you have any doubts about whether or not you will actually use the machine, you might want to hold off on buying one for a bit. Not that it’s not worth it but because it doesn’t make sense spending on something that you’re not going to use.

On the other hand, if you have used one at your local gym and really liked it, or you’ve used one at a friend’s house and wished you had one yourself, then you, my friend, are going to get your money’s full worth and then some!

I think I’ve mentioned before that while I love my rowing machine, I am not a big fan of gyms. It always seemed like such a pain in the behind to drive there, look for parking, hope it’s safe parking, change my clothes, use whatever machine I was looking for (let’s not even go into non-working machines or waiting in line) then change clothes, shower once I got home (because I am not using those public showers), and change clothes yet again.

Why do all that when I can jump on my Hydrow and row anytime I like for as long as I like. None of those “30-minute limit” rules a lot of gyms have due to overcrowding.

If you enjoy rowing and love the idea of rowing whenever you want and however long you want to, then you’re going to really enjoy this piece of exercise equipment and use it to it’s full worth.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Rowing Machine?

To be honest, the only disadvantage(s) that I can think of would be the size and the noise.

Nearly all rowing machines take up between 84″ and 94″ of floor space. Rowing machines are long, but they aren’t wide. This means that you will need to find some space to use it and room to store it.

For some people, this can be a bit tricky, but I honestly can’t say I’ve ever heard anyone say that they didn’t buy a rowing machine because of space issues.

The other issue would be noise.

Some indoor rowing machines use air as their means of resistance, similar to stationary bikes that are known as spin bikes or assault bikes.

If you’ve ever heard an assault bike or air resistance rowing machine, then you know just how loud those can be! If you live in an apartment or you live with others, they may not like all that noise.

Fortunately, you can still get a good quiet rowing workout if you choose a rowing machine that uses magnets or water as resistance. Magnetic rowing machines and water rowers offer efficient workouts that are much, much quieter than the traditional air rowers.

Do Rowing Machines Get Boring?

I suppose sometimes they do, and this appears to be a common concern, but mostly I think the boring part of any exercise machine is the repetitive movements and the absence of something to entertain the mind.

Get the Best Deal at Ergatta Compare on Amazon read more

Is It Worth Buying a Rowing Machine? 2026 Read More »

Magnetic vs Air Rower 2026 – Which Is Best?

Magnetic vs Air Rower - Which is Best?

If you are shopping for rowing machines you are probably at the point of comparing air vs magnetic rowing machines, and for good reason. So, what do you need to know about air resistance compared to water rowing machines or a magnetic rowing machine? 

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top 3 Picks:

If you’re pressed for time and simply want to find the best magnetic and air rowing machine, here are my recommended choices:

  1. Sunny Health Fitness
  2. Concept 2 
  3. Hydrow

*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.

In the upcoming sections of this article, we will provide a detailed analysis and evaluation of each rowing machine, highlighting our key findings for each one.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

Magnetic rowing machines are a good choice for many because magnetic rowers have levels of resistance that can be easily adjusted depending on how difficult you want your rowing workout to be that particular day.

With air rowing machines, beginners might have an easier time getting started with rowers. Air resistance is usually the easiest type of resistance since the resistance is directly related to how hard you work out.

Points to Consider When Buying Rowing Machines

When you are looking for rowing machines there are a few factors to consider. With an air rower, the faster you row the faster the flywheel spins.

What type of resistance do you want? Remember that air rowers are going to be a little easier to use for a beginner than a magnetic rower or a water rowing machine. There’s nothing to be ashamed of, and an air rower might be perfect for you.

What’s a good 500m rowing time?

If you are looking for a resistance mechanism that can be varied, you want to consider a magnetic rower, since this type of rowing machine usually has different levels and different types of rowing depending on your strength level. Magnetic resistance levels are the easiest to adjust so you can work out different muscle groups when you have a different level of resistance.

What Is a Flywheel?

Air rowers make use of a flywheel that controls the resistance when you spin. The greater the resistance, the greater the workout your muscles will feel.

With a low noise level, you can row fast on air machines and remember that the more resistance the harder your muscle groups will work. To generate resistance and feel like a real rowing action, make the flywheel spin as fast as you can.

Air rowing machines use a flywheel because it lets the user control the resistance, and some rowers prefer this to magnetic rowers that require resistance adjustments to be made.

Water Rowing Machines

Are water rowing machines a good way to give you a full-body workout for all of your muscles? Absolutely, water rowers are a type of rowing machine that feels like real rowing, and a water rower set to the right resistance setting is going to work out your muscles in a way that other types of rowing machines can’t compete with.

Click Here: Water V’s Air Rowing Machines – Who Won?

Water Rowing Machine Advantages 

What better feeling than rowing on water at the right resistance level! The purest types of rowing have you feeling like you are rowing on water and water rowing machines offer this feeling better than any other types of rowing machines. See our list of Budget Water Rowing Machines

See Our Top Water Rowing Machines

With the wide range of muscles you can workout, your strength is sure to improve and you will get a full-body workout anytime you use the right rowing action and remember that the stronger the resistance the harder your workout will be.

Are Air Rowers Better than Magnetic?

Some of this comes down to personal preference. An air machine or a machine with a water flywheel can give you just as good of a workout as a rowing machine that makes use of magnets especially if you work hard to create resistance.

A good rower uses all of your muscles in your workout, and you can accomplish that with a water flywheel or one of the great air rowing machine options as long as you have the right rowing technique.

With an air rower and a flywheel, it’s up to you and your rowing action to get in a high-level workout. With something like a Concept2 Model D rowing machine, the rower will do more of the workout for you as this type of rower has more adjustment options.

Is Concept 2 Rower Magnetic or Air Resistance?

Concept 2 Model D (now called RowErg) is a bestselling air resistance rowing machine. It has been around since the early 1980s and is still going strong. Most gyms use Concept 2 air rowers because of their durability and the ease of maintaining them. 

Learn more with our full video of the Concept2 Rower by Rowing YouTube Influencer Max Secunda:

 

Which Type of Rowing Machine Is Best?

If you are looking to purchase a rowing machine on a budget, you should check out Sunny Health Fitness as they are the leader in budget rowing machines. They offer a lot of different rowing machines that you can afford on a tight budget.  

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Magnetic vs Air Rower 2026 – Which Is Best? Read More »