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!

Ergatta Vs WaterRower [2025] – The Winner Is…

ergatta vs waterrower

There is nothing like a rowing machine to get you into shape quickly and help you lose weight. Why waste time doing 60-minute or longer workouts at the gym when a home rower will give you a full-body workout in about half that time?!

A huge number of people have recently discovered the joys of a rowing workout experience. Water rowers have become super popular, and that’s not surprising since these types of rowers make the rowing experience as real as possible.If you’re looking for a connected rowing machine, however, this will narrow down your choices considerably. Most rowers have a screen or monitor, but not many have the advantage of being connected to the internet, giving you a challenging workout that you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Want to know which rower is the best between Ergatta or WaterRower but don’t have time to read the whole article? Click on the links below to get our answers:

  1. The Ergatta Rowing Machine
  2. The WaterRower Club Rowing Machines

*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.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

A bit of diligence is needed when you want to find the best water tank rower for you. If you’re constrained by a tight budget, you can still find a few bargains, such as the Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian 500, but if you want a top-end, connected fitness machine, which do you choose?

In today’s article, I’m going to spell out all the difference between the Ergatta and the WaterRower brand so you can make a more informed decision.

Let’s take a look at water rowing machines and all the benefits and features that are worth noting.

The Ergatta Rowing Machine

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Ergatta Vs WaterRower [2025] – The Winner Is… Read More »

Ergatta vs Concept 2 [2025]: Who Is the Clear Winner?

ergatta vs concept 2

Rowing machines used to be only for professional athletes, but with the recent rise of connected rowing machines, it’s much more common to find an indoor rower in many locations, including the home gym.

As a piece of home gym equipment, it’s hard to match a rowing machine. You can work 86 percent of the body’s muscles, all 11 major muscle groups get used, burn up to 900 calories an hour, and with a connected rower, you can have fun being a part of a community!

If you love fitness classes, like to compete in races, or find motivation in games, then you need a connected rower!

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

Short on time but still want to know which rower is better between Ergatta or Concept 2? Check out our answers by clicking on the links below:

  1. Concept 2 Rowing Machine
  2. Ergatta Rowing Machines

*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.

Let’s Get Started On This!

You may have been looking at various rowing machines and wondered which one is the best.

Take Concept 2 and the Ergatta for example. Concept 2 has been around since the 1980s and is still a top-selling rowing machine. The Ergatta is new to the market, but it is already the talk of the fitness world.

Well, I can help clear things up for you. There are actually a couple of big differences between these two rowing machines, and once you know the differences, the choice as to which one is better becomes crystal clear.

In this article, I am going to share everything I know about these two machines. I have personally used them both, and I can tell you which one I’d buy if I were in the market for a rowing machine.

Sit back and give me just a few minutes of your time. This article is well worth the read.

What You Should Know about Concept 2 Rowing Machine

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Ergatta vs Concept 2 [2025]: Who Is the Clear Winner? Read More »

Echelon Rower vs Hydrow [2025]: The Winner Is…..

Echelon Rower vs Hydrow

If you’re interested in buying the best rowing machine ever, you’re not alone. Rowing is one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercises on the planet.

Not only that but how else can you work 86 percent of all muscles in the body simply by using one piece of gym equipment?!

Knowing that you want an indoor rower isn’t the problem; it’s choosing the best one!

If you’ve been shopping around, you’ve probably seen lots of other brands and wondered which one was better or why some rowing machines are priced higher than others when they all do basically the same thing.

 

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

Are you short on time and want to know which rower is the best rower between Echelon Rower or Hydrow then click on the links below to get straight to our answers:

  1. The Echelon Smart Rower
  2. The Hydrow Rower

*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.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

An informed shopper is a smart shopper, so today, I’m going to compare the Hydrow vs Echelon Rower (FYI: you might also like to read my article on Ergatta vs Echelon). Both are excellent rowing machines, but one really does stand head and shoulders above the other.

The Echelon Smart Rower

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Echelon Rower vs Hydrow [2025]: The Winner Is….. Read More »

Topiom vs WaterRower vs Ergatta [2025]

Topiom vs WaterRower

Hi friends, it’s Petra, and in this article, I want to talk about water rowing machines.

I’m fortunate enough that I’ve had access to just about every type of indoor rowing machine one way or another, but if you haven’t had that option, how are you supposed to choose the correct one?

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

Want to know which rower is the best between Topion, WaterRower or Ergatta but don’t have time to read the whole article? Click on the links below to get our answers:

  1. Topiom Rowing Machine
  2. WaterRower Rowing Machine
  3. Ergatta Water Rowing Machine

*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.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

There are SO many brands available right now, and the price ranges make it even more difficult. Is more expensive better?

My parents always taught me that you get what you pay for, but what if you can’t afford the best? Does that mean that you are stuck with a lemon of a water rower?

I thought that I would take on three brands of water rowers and give you the rundown on the pros and cons of each so you can make a more informed buying decision.

If you are in the market for a water resistance rowing machine, this is a must-read article.

1. The Topiom Rowing Machine

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Topiom vs WaterRower vs Ergatta [2025] Read More »

LIT Method Vs Hydrow [2025]: What is the Difference?

lit method vs hydrow

There are rowing machines, and then there are unique and outstanding rowing machines.

If you’ve been shopping for a replacement rowing machine, or if you’ve never owned a home rower but are interested in getting one for your home gym, you may have been more than a bit overwhelmed when you sat down and looked at all your options.

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

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

  1. The LIT Strength Machine
  2. The Hydrow

*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.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

In my opinion, and I don’t think I’m alone here, the Hydrow rower and the LIT Strength Machine are, at the moment, the top two rowing machines under that unique and outstanding category.

While I’ve never taken the time to check out exactly how many types of rowing machines are currently available, I would venture a guess that there are at least 50 or more choices. It wouldn’t surprise me one bit if someone said that there were actually 100 rowing machines currently for sale.

How does a non-professional rowing expert pick the right machine when faced with that many choices?!

While I may not be a pro, I’m crazy about rowing, and I have used at least 20 different machines in my lifetime, and I own several different models (because I’m obsessed, what can I say?), so I can help you out when it comes to picking the right machine for you.

That’s what it all boils down to. Not every machine works for everyone. Just like cars. If you haul six kids to school and soccer games, you won’t be happy in a tiny VW Bug. It’s the same dilemma with indoor rowers. Rowing machines come in all different types of colors, materials, resistance types, and classes (or lack of them).

In today’s article, I want to talk about the top two rowing machines that are as different as night and day, but both belong in the unique and impressive category.

Want the best possible rowing machine but at the same time, something different from the rest? This article is for you, friends.

Let’s look at the Hydrow Rower and the LIT Strength Machine.

See Our Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals on Rowing Machines!

The LIT Strength Machine

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LIT Method Vs Hydrow [2025]: What is the Difference? Read More »

Best Interactive Rowing Machine for Your Money for 2025

Best Interactive Rowing Machine

You won’t find many pieces of gym equipment that can provide the same heart-pumping, calorie-blasting, full-body workout that an indoor rowing machine provides.

No wonder, more and more people are buying rowing machines for their home gyms.

Did you know that a rowing machine workout burns as much as 900 calories an hour? Or that a rowing machine works 86 percent of the muscles in your body during a single workout? Yes, it does those and more!

Perhaps you’ve been considering an indoor rowing machine for your home gym, but the choices are overwhelming. If you’ve been shopping for a rowing machine, it’s easy to get confused, but now there are several interactive or smart rowers to add to the mix.

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top Picks:

If you’re pressed for time and simply want to find the top-rated interactive rowers, here are my recommended choices:

    1. Hydrow Rower
    2. Ergatta Rowing Machine
    3. Aviron Home Rower

    *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 below in this article.

    I know what you’re asking yourself: Are these smart rowers really worth the extra money?

    Don’t worry, it’s normal to have a lot of questions when you’re new to the sport. The good news here is that this article is dedicated to you, someone who is new to the game and who wants to know everything about rowing machines but dislikes spending hours doing research.

    I’m going to explain the different types of resistance systems, what interactive rowers are, and which are the best rowing machines for the money.

    Are you ready? This is going to be a fun little ride, so buckle up!

    Available Resistance Types of Rowing Machines

    There are basically 4 types of resistance that rowing machines use to keep you challenged. I won’t discuss hydraulic resistance rowers here because they don’t offer a true rowing experience and only mimic rowing.

    The other three types of resistance are:

    • Magnetic– Sometimes called electromagnetic resistance systems, these use magnets on a metal flywheel to provide you with different levels of resistance. This type of machine is very popular since they are virtually silent and come in a wide range of pricing.
    • Air- You might be familiar with assault bikes or air bikes that use fans to generate resistance. There are also air resistance types of rowing machines, which are lightweight but can be noisy.
    • Water– Water rowers are also very popular because they give you a more realistic rowing experience. The gentle swooshing sound of water in the tank is quite relaxing. These types of indoor rowers tend to be slightly heavier than the others, especially once the tank is filled.

    All of the above machines provide smooth resistance that will help you burn calories and offer you a terrific cardio workout.

    See Our Rowing Machine Black Friday & Cyber Monday Sale!

    Are Magnetic Resistance Types the Best Interactive Rowing Machines?

    Which resistance type makes the best indoor rowers? This really is a matter of preference. Some people swear by their air rowers, while others say that magnetic or water rowers are the best choices.

    Personally, I prefer either magnetic rowers or water rowers, but above all else, I want a rower that is interactive.

    Let’s face it, you can get bored listening to the same old music or podcasts or even watching Netflix while exercising. With a smart rower, you can’t possibly get bored!

    Of course, if you are interested in hydraulic rowers, you can check them out here.

    I want to tell you about the top 3 best at-home rowing machines offering interactive workouts that you will come to love.

    What Is the Difference Between Interactive and Non-Interactive Rowing Machines?

    The difference between these two types of rowing workouts lies in the LCD monitor.

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

Best Interactive Rowing Machine for Your Money for 2025 Read More »

Ergatta vs Nordictrack [Updated 2025]: Don’t Buy the Wrong Rower!

ergatta vs nordictrack

Chances are that you’ve seen rowing machines sitting in a corner at your local gym. What was once an exercise machine that only fanatics like myself used is now super popular!

If you’ve decided to add an indoor rowing machine to your home gym, smart move!

I’m betting you’ve done some research about your upcoming purchase so that you get the best possible rowing machine for your money. Who doesn’t want the best, right?

The problem is choosing the best! What is “the best” for one person may not be perfect for someone else.

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

If you’re in a hurry and need to know which rower is better between Ergatta or NordicTrack, click on the links below for our answers:

  1. The NordicTrack RW900
  2. The Ergatta Rowing Machine

*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.

Right Let’s Get Into It!

Not only do you want a rowing machine that fits your lifestyle and personal preferences, but you also want a machine that will really last and stand the test of time.

If your choices have boiled down to either the Ergatta or the NordicTrack RW900, I understand what makes your decision so difficult.

Both of these are premium machines with many similarities, but at the same time, many differences that can make or break your rowing workouts.

The good news is that I’ve used both machines, and in today’s article, I’m going to compare these connected rowers so you can make a more informed decision.

Are you ready? Let’s talk about connected rowers and all the fun gadgets they have to offer.

The NordicTrack RW900

 

Get the Best Deal at NordicTrack  Compare on Amazon read more

Ergatta vs Nordictrack [Updated 2025]: Don’t Buy the Wrong Rower! Read More »

Hydrow Drag Setting: What It Does and How to Use It [2025]

hydrow drag setting

Hi there, fellow Hydrow owners! I’m Petra, and in this article, I want to talk about the drag setting on Hydrow.

The drag setting on your rowing machine simulates the actual drag on a boat when rowing on water. For Hydrow, the default setting is 104, and most workouts are designed to be rowed at that level.

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

If you’re a beginner, first try working out at that setting for a few workouts before increasing or decreasing it to what you think is the best fit for you.

If you’re confused about the whole thing, or if you just want to know more about how your Hydrow drag setting works, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s talk about how the drag setting works, what it means, what it does, and all other Hydrow related stuff.

What Should the Hydrow Drag Be Set at?

By default, the drag setting on your Hydrow is at 104. Hydrow feels that this setting most represents what a workout on the water feels like.

I recommend trying a couple of workouts using the set 104 drag setting, especially if you are a beginner. Hydrow designed most workouts to be rowed at 104, so that generally works for rowers of all shapes and weight.

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Hydrow Drag Setting: What It Does and How to Use It [2025] Read More »

What Exercise Machine Burns the Most Belly Fat [2025]

what exercise machine burns the most belly fat

Got a spare tire around your middle? That doesn’t look good! If you’re reading this, chances are that you’re interested in parting ways with those love handles, and I can’t say that I blame you. Excess weight tends to hit us right in the belly, especially as we age. Whether you’ve got a potbelly, a poochie belly, or a beach ball belly, you want to get rid of it as fast as possible, right?

When it comes to losing belly fat, you should choose exercises that can provide you serious cardio exercises and high-intensity interval training to burn calories like a furnace. You can take up running marathons or use cardio machines (think ellipticals, spin bike, and rowing machines) at your local gym or home gym.

I’ll take the home gym choice any day, and if you feel the same way, then today’s article is for you.

In a Hurry?  Here are My Top 5 Picks:

In a rush and want to find the most effective workout machine for burning belly fat? Check out my top picks:

  1. The Hydrow
  2. Sunny Health and Fitness Rower
  3. Teeter FreeStep Elliptical Machine
  4. Schwinn 411 Elliptical Trainer
  5. Teeter Power10 Elliptical Rower

Right Let’s Get Into It!

I’m going to let you in on a few secrets I’ve learned over the years about exercise machines, how they work, what they do, and which ones are best for helping to blast away belly fat. 

Ready to learn more? Keep reading and you will discover how you can lose belly fat for good. 

Our analysis of rowing machines is listed below in this article, where we have provided a comprehensive assessment of each machine.

What Is the Fastest Way to Lose Belly Fat at the Gym?

This is an easy one to answer. Which is the fastest way to lose belly fat at the gym is to not go.

OK, let me explain that one.

Personally, I’ve found that, when I go to the gym, I get nothing but frustrated.

All the machines that I want to use are taken, which means I have to wait my turn. Not to mention that due to overcrowding, most gyms have set limits on their exercise machines.

Now that can be a good thing since you know you only have to wait 30 minutes max for a machine, but what if you had planned to workout for 45 minutes or an hour? You have to stop at the 30-minute mark, which means your body most likely just started to work on that belly fat.

If you love the gym, by all means, keep going. I would highly recommend that you use a rowing machine to lose belly fat.

However, for everyone else who would rather work out at home, keep reading to find out which exercise machines are the best when you want to burn fat and lose weight.

The Best Exercise Machines for Losing Belly Fat

Here is where I’m going to let you in on a few secrets.

First, you can’t tell your body where to lose weight. All those spot-reducing exercises will definitely tighten, firm, or build muscle, but it’s your body that decides which fat stores it takes energy from.

The best way to lose fat, even belly fat, is to do cardio exercises for at least 20 minutes daily, eat a healthy diet, and get plenty of rest.

Steady-state cardio, which is where the heart rate stays at no more than 85 percent of its maximum for at least 20 minutes, is one of the best ways to torch away fat, even stubborn belly fat.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an even better way to lose weight and reduce belly fat. This type of training involves alternating short bursts of all-out high energy activity and brief periods of rest.

For example, you could jog at 2 MPH for one minute, then run at 4 MPH for one minute, then return to 2 MPH for another minute. You repeat this for 30 minutes, and you will get maximum calorie burn. This is the basic idea behind HIIT training programs.

You can use an exercise bike, a rowing machine, a stair stepper, a treadmill, or whatever exercise machine you like, but the truth is that the best exercise machines help with weight loss by burning more calories per minute than other machines.

Now, let’s take a look a the best exercise machines for the home gym that will help you lose belly fat and take you on a jet flight down the road on your weight loss journey.

1. The Hydrow

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What Exercise Machine Burns the Most Belly Fat [2025] Read More »