by Lauren Von Lehe

Created on: August 16, 2008   Last Updated: July 14, 2009

Fitness can be fun if you choose the right equipment. Having a home gym makes fitness convenient and saves you the cost of monthly membership dues at public facilities. If you haven't yet tried a rowing machine, this little piece of equipment may just be your new favorite fitness machine. There are many reasons it can fit perfectly into your home gym program.

Why a rowing machine?

Compact, low-impact, and easy to use, the rowing machine works the cardiovascular system while strengthening the back, arms, legs, and shoulders in one easy gliding motion. As you simulate rowing a small kayak, a small screen called an ergo-meter tracks your strokes per minute, time, and calories burned. Rowing equipment weighs around 80 pounds and some can be folded and stored inconspicuously, minimizing clutter.

What do you look for?

When shopping for a rowing machine, look for a sturdy piece of equipment that will hold up under the rigors of continuous use. What you don't want is to have to replace it in 2 to 3 years. Also check out the manufacturer's warranty. The warranty is often broken down into a policy for the frame, the parts, and labor. Each of these is covered separately for a different length of time, with the frame covered longest.

One feature I personally enjoy are the rowing machines that have a built-in fan. The fan operates automatically as you begin to row and makes a workout more comfortable.

What are some brands?
These are just some of the companies that make rowing machines:
Lifecore
Omega
Bodycraft
Fitness Quest
ProRower
Schwinn

Prices range from around $350 to $900 depending on the brand and style.

Learn more about this author, Lauren Von Lehe.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.