Contrary to popular belief, rowing isn’t just a sport for young, fit people who look great in spandex shorts.

In fact, research shows that rowing stimulates bone growth, builds bone mineral density and advances physical stamina – all important parts of maintaining a healthy body into old age.

That’s why rowing is actually one of the best low-impact, full-body workouts for elderly people.

Because we know how important it is to pick the best option for your personal fitness levels and lifestyle, we’ve reviewed the top rowing machines for seniors on Amazon.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be one step closer to taking charge of your health.

Best Rowing Machines For Seniors

	ShareVgo Smart Home Rowing Machine	WEKEEP OVICX Rowing Machine	Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine
Dimensions:	71 x 20 x 35 Inches	78 x 12 x 28 Inches	82 x 19 x 23 Inches
Weight Capacity:	285 Pounds	242 Pounds	250 Pounds
Resistance:	8 Levels, Magnetic	16 Levels, Magnetic	8 Levels, Magnetic
Display:	Bluetooth LCD	LCD	LCD

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Senior Rowing Machines For 2022

1. ShareVgo Smart Home Rowing Machine
2. WEKEEP OVICX Magnetic Rowing Machine
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
4. MaxKare Dynamic Rowing Machine
5. MARNUR Full Motion Indoor Rower
6. SereneLife Rowing Machine
7. HouseFit Rowing Machine

Our reviews of the top rated rowing machines for seniors with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right one for you.

Senior Rowing Machine Reviews

#1 ShareVgo Smart Home Rowing Machine

The ShareVgo Smart Home Rowing Machine has both beauty and brains.

It features an intelligent dashboard which logs basic metrics like time, distance and calories, as well as more complex values like BMI, strokes per minute, and calories burned based on weight and gender.

The ShareVgo doesn’t lack in physical design characteristics either – it features a durable and long slide rail that can support up to 285 pounds and seat heights between 4’8” to 6’4”.

Foam grip handlebars offer a soft yet secure grip while rowing, and sport row-to-count stroke sensors for better performance tracking.

The magnetic resistance offers a smooth and consistent tension, and the option of different difficulty levels so you can challenge yourself as you progress.

Because of its intelligent monitor and complex sensor tracking systems, you’ll be able to carefully track your stats to ensure you aren’t overworking yourself or in risk of injury.

These thoughtful features make the ShareVgo one of the best indoor rowing machines for seniors.

#2 WEKEEP OVICX Magnetic Rowing Machine

The WEKEEP OVIC is another top contender on the market that is built to optimize your home workouts.

Designed with a sturdy aluminum foundation, a durable slide track and anti-slip foot pedals, it will provide you with a challenging but safe rowing experience every single time.

It features no-touch magnetic resistance with 16 levels of increasing difficulty. Customizing your personal fitness routine has never been so straightforward!

A sleek and high-tech LCD monitor allows you to track your progress in real-time, displaying metrics like speed, distance and calories burned.

Also included is a spacious phone / iPad holder so you can play your favorite music or watch your favorite shows to distract from the pain of your workout!

The WEKEEP OVICX was designed with safety as a top priority, featuring no-slip, sweat-proof foam hand grips and a seat lock which prevents unnecessary sliding and instability mid-workout.

It is also foldable for compact storage.

With so many great safety and design features, there’s no wonder why this is one of the best senior rowing machines you’ll see on the market today.

#3 Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine

Sunny Health & Fitness is well-known for manufacturing state of the art workout equipment, and their Magnetic Rowing Machine is no exception.

This model is built with an extra long slide rail (48 inches in length), in order to accommodate rowers of nearly any size. It can also support up to 250 pounds of weight at one time.

A key feature of this ergometer is its attention to safety – it features textured no-slip pedals with adjustable safety straps, sweat-proof foam handlebars, and floor stabilizers to eliminate instability.

A large LCD console also displays metrics like time, calories burned and strokes per minute, with a “scan” feature which allows you to flip through stats without touching the screen.

This model also has 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance, which offer smooth and noiseless tension while provide varying levels of difficulty. 

When you’re done, simply use the convenient transportation wheels to tilt and roll the machine out of the way. It also folds for compact storage.

This is one of the best home rowing machines for the elderly.

#4 MaxKare Dynamic Rowing Machine

Next up, we have the MaxKare Dynamic Rowing Machine. This is a sleek and powerful rower which uses windspeed to generate resistance.

Using the same technique as the infamous air bike, this ergometer generates more wind the faster you row, meaning that the harder you work, the higher the resistance climbs.

As with all fitness equipment which utilizes this method of tension, this model can get a bit loud. However, it is still a great option for those looking for a low-impact, full body workout.

The MaxKare’s steel main frame and special triangular foundation make it one of the most stable machines you’ll find. It is capable of supporting up to 264 pounds at one time.

It also features a digital monitor which displays key workout stats like time, calories, and distance.

Like so many of the great models on our list, this one also has folding capacity, which will allow you to save space during storage.

It even has transport wheels and an attached pulley so that you can maneuver it around your home with ease.

This is one of the best rowing exercise machines for seniors.

#5 MARNUR Full Motion Indoor Rower

The MARNUR Full Motion Indoor Rower is another high quality machine that will turn you into a rowing enthusiast!

Unlike the traditional models, this one has handlebars that can rotate 360 degrees in all directions, thus simulating a more realistic and engaging rowing experience.

A maximum load capacity of 350 pounds (the highest on our list!) ensures that this is a machine made for everyone.

It features a wide padded seat, no-slip foot plates and sweat proof handlebars for ultimate security.

12 levels of adjustable hydraulic resistance also offer a fully customizable workout experience. Simply turn the knob to manually adjust the tension.  

A multi-functional LCD Display will track your performance, measuring time, speed count, and RPM.

Together, all these great features culminate in one of the best indoor rowing machines for the elderly.

#6 SereneLife Rowing Machine

The SereneLife rower will help you achieve your fitness goals without ever even leaving the house!

This model utilizes magnetic resistance, so with a simple twist of a button you’ll be able to choose between 8 levels of varied difficulty.

Durable steel alloy and engineered ABS plastic make it exceptionally sturdy, capable of supporting up to 250 pounds at one time.

The one-year warranty is simply the icing on the cake!

With so many great features for such a low price point, this is one of the best cheap rowing machines for seniors that you’ll find on the market.

#7 HouseFit Rowing Machine

Finishing our list off strong, we have the HouseFit Rowing Machine. This is a rock-solid rower with all the bells & whistles to prove it.

It features non-slip textured pedals, a cushioned seat, and a special rear stabilizer which grounds the machine to prevent unnecessary shaking.

A high quality aluminum slide rail and 15 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance ensure that it has the appropriate settings to suit a wide range of people, from beginners to expert rowers.

With a maximum load capacity of 300 pounds at once, it’s also one of the sturdiest options on this list.

The HouseFit sports a digital monitor that allows you to track time, calories, and other important workout metrics throughout your routine.

Its dual caster transport wheels offer easy maneuverability, and its special folding mechanism ensures that you’ll never have to stress about finding space to store it.

This is by far one of the best magnetic rowing machines for seniors.

Rowing Machines For Seniors Comparison

How to Choose an Awesome Rowing Machine For Seniors

Now that you’ve seen the best indoor rowing machines for seniors on Amazon, it’s time to figure out which one works best with your unique lifestyle and personal fitness levels.

This can often be the hardest part – how do you settle on just one from so many stellar options?

That’s where we come in! We’ve written up this handy buyers guide which will lead you through key aspects of the selection process.

By the time you’re done, you’ll have no doubts about the perfect option for you.

Safety

Safety should always come first! Before engaging in any new form of exercise, its best to chat with your doctor about your body’s capabilities and limits.

Ongoing or preexisting health conditions can seriously impact your workouts. If you suffer from any degenerative bone disease or muscle atrophy, indoor rowing may not be for you.

Other physical conditions like diabetes and tachycardia, along with certain kinds of medications, can also impact your ability to row because they affect your heart health.

The best advice is to set realistic goals, take baby steps, and listen to your body. If you feel acute or sudden pain, you should scale back.

Don’t ignore signs like dizziness, disorientation and chest pain.

You should also keep in mind that after long bouts of sedentary living, getting back into an exercise routine can be challenging.

You may feel extremely sore and sluggish the day after your first indoor rowing session. But don’t feel discouraged or tempted to give up.

Instead, remember to stretch, warm up, and cool down with each workout session. This will minimize the painful after-effects of sudden exercise.

Don’t skip these small but impactful steps!

Size & Space

Your indoor rowing machine, also known as an ergometer or “erg”, is going to take up a significant amount of room.

With that in mind, you’ll need to cross-check your machine’s dimensions with the available space you have for it.

Remember to leave adequate room for you to use your ergometer, as well – that means leave at least 10 inches of space on either side of it.

However keep in mind that these machines are also relatively slender and capable of folding, which means they can be easily compressed for compact storage.

Not only does each model have different dimensions, but they also have different weight capacities.

Be sure you’ve checked all the numbers, and if you plan on sharing your erg with another user, check that it can handle their weight as well.

Resistance Type

Rowing machines come with varied types of resistance, which each offer distinctly different workout experiences.

Let’s go over the most popular kinds – air, hydraulic and magnetic – to determine which is right for you.

Air

Air resistance is the most common, and can be found in most gym and commercial rowing machines.

As utilized in the infamous air bike, air resistance indicates that the level of tension and difficulty is determined by the user’s workout intensity.

Resistance is generated by a fan, which produces more wind the faster it spins, thus slowing you down the harder you try to speed up.

This results in the following formula: rowing faster = more resistance; rowing slower = less resistance.

Hydraulic

Hydraulic resistance indicates the use of hydraulic pistons for tension generation.

The fundamental physics principle behind this design is based on fluid dynamics – force applied at point A is transmitted to point B using an incompressible fluid known as hydraulic oil. 

In simpler terms, as you go through the motions of your exercise, cylinders filled with oil provide counter-resistance to the force you apply.

You’ll be able to set levels of difficulty with this type of resistance method.

Magnetic

Finally, magnetic resistance implies the use of strong magnets (it’s pretty straightforward!) which generate resistance as they move past each other.

Because this type of tension doesn’t involve any friction, the resistance is quiet, consistent and smooth – perfect for indoor exercise!

Ultimately, the resistance type you go for should depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle habits.

Maintenance

Finally, you must consider the maintenance requirements of your indoor rowing machine.

First things first – these models require lots of oil!

All rowing machines have a chain which attaches the handle to the flywheel. Ideally, the chain will move smoothly to spin the wheel each time you pull the handle.

However, this motion can be interrupted by dirt and debris buildup on the chain. This will negatively impact the quality of your workout.

To prevent this, you will have to oil / grease your machine about thrice a year. Simply pull out the chain and apply some rowing machine chain oil to its surface using a paper towel.

This oil is made specially to clean rowing machines, and will serve you well for years to come!

You should also be sure to listen to your machine.Pay attention to the noises it makes – any clinking or clunking noises are often attributed to loose parts or fallen screws.

You’ll want to tend to those before they impact your workout and safety!

Finally, wipe your rowerafter each use. Sweat, dust and dirt buildup can stain your machine and contribute to its early demise.

Following these simple steps will help extend the longevity of your rowing machine.

For more in-depth tips and tricks on maintenance, check out the video below.

How to Maintain Your Rowing Machine

FAQs About Rowing Machines

Q: What is the best exercise for seniors?

A: There’s no one “best” exercise for seniors, because elderly individuals aren’t a monolith – everyone ages differently and at different rates.

However, it’s generally accepted that for older adults, low-impact exercises like water aerobics, rowing, pilates and recumbent bicycling are the way to go.

Low-impact exercises are preferable because they require you to support less weight on your knees, back and joints, thus preventing bone deterioration.

These won’t place unnecessary strain on weak joints, but will still challenge your body and build the cardiovascular strength and endurance necessary for a good quality of life.

Cardio also boosts cognitive processing and releases important mood-regulating neurotransmitters like endorphins, serotonin and dopamine.

These all contribute to your overall physical and emotional health.

Q: Is rowing good for the elderly?

A: Studies have also shown that using a rowing machine as an older person is good for building physical stamina, stimulating bone growth and building bone mineral density.

Q: What are the best exercise machines for bad knees?

A: If you have bad knees, look out for exercise machines which don’t place strain on the joints.

That means avoiding running, jumping and any other high impact exercise which forces you to bear weight on your knees.

However, low impact doesn’t mean low intensity – there are plenty of exercise machines that will save your joints but provide a challenging, full body workout.

Ellipticals, recumbent bikes, rowing machines, and resistance training machines are all good options.

Q: How long should a beginner use a rowing machine?

A: According to experts, you should begin with 3 to 4 exercise sessions a week, of between 10-20 minutes per session.

Aim to keep your heart rate within 60-70% of its maximum rate throughout each session. Once you feel that this isn’t challenging, you can increase the length and intensity of each session.

Tips For Choosing A Rowing Machine

#1: Safety first!

Remember to check with a medical professional before engaging in any new form of exercise. This is a step that simply can’t be ignored – your health is far too important.

Talk to your doctor before investing in an indoor rowing machine!

#2: Double-check the dimensions.

There’s no point in buying a machine which doesn’t fit your height, weight, or space requirements. Double-check the numbers so you don’t have to make any costly returns!

#3: Maintenance is key!

Finally, the price tags on these home rowing machines can get a little steep. You’re going to want to buy something that you can use in the long-run – something that provides a significant return on investment.

That’s why maintenance is so important. You can have the highest quality equipment, but if you don’t take care of it, who knows how long it will last you!?

Maintain your indoor rower using the tips and tricks discussed above in the buyers guide, and you’ll be good to go.

Summary

Now that you know all about how to choose a good senior rowing machine, it’s finally time to decide which you’ll be taking home.

No matter which product you end up going for, know that you’ll be leaving with one of the best options on the market.

Thanks for reading & happy shopping!

How We Researched

To come up with the top senior rowing machines, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources