Air & Hydraulic Rowing Machines

Sometimes combined with magnetic resistance, air rowers closely match the simulation of a true rowing experience. This is second only to fluid rowers. Powered by a flywheel, wind is used for resistance, meaning these rowers can be a little noisy, but still deliver a challenging and efficient full-body workout!

Air Power

Similar to water rowing machines in a number of ways, air rowers are a popular choice. In replacement of a water tank you have a fan or flywheel to create resistance, still giving you complete control over the intensity of your workout. One of the more affordable types of rowing machines, air rowers are a staple in both home and commercial gyms.

What to Consider When Buying an Air Rowing Machine

• Your available area

  It’s imperative that the rower you buy fits comfortably into your allocated space. Measure the length, width and height of the available area. When measuring, make sure you allow extra space for getting on and off the machine. Some air rowing machines can be folded for storage, so bear that in mind when looking at different models.

• Standard of construction

  A quality rower will feature a well-finished, solid construction with an aluminium seat rail. Dual rails are quieter than single rails, and the machine shouldn’t be unsteady when you sit on it. Another sign of a high-quality machine is a decent seat runner. To test this, move the seat to one end of the rail and tilt that end of the rower up a couple of inches. A good runner and rail will allow the seat to roll freely to the other end with minimal tilting.

• Comfort factors

  If you’re tall, it’s worth checking that you can use the machine comfortably, as a longer seat rail would be wise. The seat should feel comfortable, even after you’ve completed your workout. Some rowers have higher seats, which you may prefer, particularly if you’re tall. Make sure your feet can be comfortably secured in the footplates – many rowers come with adjustable footplates with handy straps. Lastly, the handle should feel comfortable to hold and offer good grip, even when your hands are becoming tired and sweaty.

• Quality of movement

  Look for a smooth and even feel with no jerkiness or points where resistance suddenly drops away, especially at the beginning of the stroke. Check the range of the movement – when you’re as far forward on the runner as possible) i.e. buttocks as close to the heels as possible) with your arms fully extended and holding the handle, the handle shouldn’t have reached its start position.

• Console and programmes

  Rower consoles display your workout statistics, which will include at least your speed, distance, time and calories burned. More advanced models offer additional options, such as heart rate monitoring or dedicated programmes, ideal if you want workout variety.

• Weight capacity

  We recommend choosing a rowing machine that can handle about 20kg more than your own weight to guarantee stability when you’re rowing.

• Storage and portability

  Rowers are amongst the most compact of home cardio equipment and tend to have a long, narrow footprint. Some Air Rowers can be folded to take up less space during storage - this is usually a very simple process for one person to do single-handedly. Rowers often come with transport wheels for easy transportation so make sure you check for these if you’re likely to be moving the machine from place to place.

Rowing Machine Add Ons

Floor mats: Place under your rower for stability and to protect your floors from wear, as well as perspiration.

Heart rate monitors and belts: some rowers offer wireless heart rate monitoring. Belts can be added for even more accurate readings. Alternatively, you can buy a heart rate monitor.

Why buy your air rowing machine from Fitness Superstore?

• You can try before you buy - and get expert advice from our in-store advisors - at any one of our 11 UK showrooms
• We offer a range of payment options, including interest free finance and buy now, pay later schemes. Payments can be spread over 6, 12, 24 or 36 months (depending on the product and finance type. You can find more information on our finance options page.
• Fastest delivery – many of our rowers are available for next day or Saturday delivery, and you can even choose you delivery date
• Delivery is free on all rowers (no delivery costs for purchases over £99) delivered to UK mainland addresses (exclusions apply). For details please see our delivery information. 
• Installation service available: All rowers do come with instruction manuals, but we do offer an installation service for selected models. For more information call us on 01604 673000.
• 14-day Price Promise: Our 14-day Price Promise guarantees that you purchase a rower at the lowest price. If you subsequently find the same like-for-like product at a lower price, we will refund 110% of the difference immediately.
• Second hand and ex-display options: As well as brand new, we also have a small selection of second hand and ex-display rowers available to purchase and pick-up from our store locations. For more information see our ex-display rowers or contact us on 01604 673000.

Sometimes combined with magnetic resistance, air rowers closely match the simulation of a true rowing experience, second only to fluid rowers. Powered by a flywheel, wind is used for resistance, meaning these rowers can be a little noisy, but still deliver a challenging and efficient full-body workout!  

Air Power  

Similar to water rowing machines in a number of ways, air rowers are a popular choice. In replacement of a water tank you have a fan or flywheel to create resistance, still giving you complete control over the intensity of your workout. One of the more affordable types of rowing machines, air rowers are widespread in both home and commercial gyms.  

What to Consider When Buying an Air Rowing Machine  

Rowing Machine Measurements

Air Rowing Machines obviously take up a larger space than other cardio machines, so it’s important to measure both your available workout space, and the rower itself, before you purchase. Make sure you allow for enough space to get on and off the rowing machine! It’s also worth noting that some rowing machines can fold up, saving extra space during storage.

Standard of construction

A quality rower will feature a well-finished, solid construction with an aluminium seat rail. Dual rails are quieter than single rails, and the machine shouldn’t be unsteady when you sit on it. Another sign of a high-quality machine is a decent seat runner. To test this, move the seat to one end of the rail and tilt that end of the rower up a couple of inches. A good runner and rail will allow the seat to roll freely to the other end with minimal tilting.  

Console and programmes

Rower consoles display your workout statistics, which will include at least your speed, distance, time and calories burned. More advanced models offer additional options, such as heart rate monitoring or dedicated programmes, ideal if you want workout variety.  

Resistance System

As in the name, and Air Rowing Machine uses air power to generate resistance. The faster you row, the faster the flywheel spins, and the more air drag you experience. Some Air Rowing Machines have levers, or damper settings, that allow you to determine just how much air is allowed to enter the flywheel.

Rowing Machine Add Ons

• Floor mats: Place under your rower for stability and to protect your floors from wear, as well as perspiration.
• Heart rate monitors and belts: some rowers offer wireless heart rate monitoring. Belts can be added for even more accurate readings. Alternatively, you can buy a heart rate monitor.