This article may contain affiliate links. Amazon Associate may earn from qualifying purchases.

A rowing machine is a perfect addition to your home gym. You can use it for a full-body workout, or you can target specific parts of your body. Though they are large, most can be stored to save floor space in your home gym. These machines can elevate your workouts, but it can be difficult to choose the right machine in Canada for you.

We’ve curated this list of the best rowing machines in Canada to help! We’re sure that one of these machines is perfect for you!

• Best Overall: Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine
• Best Air Resistance: Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
• Best Tension Levels: Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine
• Best Water Resistance: Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower
• Best Budget: Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Magnetic Resistance
• Best for Full Body Workouts: Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine
• Best Magnetic Tension: DMASUN Foldable Indoor Rower
• Best for Taller Users: ECHANFIT Water Rowing Machine

Best Overall: Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine

The Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine is the best rowing machine in Canada. It offers an amazing 32 levels of magnetic resistance to help beginners and advanced users alike. You can shift the tension using the handlebars, which is extremely helpful for progressing your workout on the fly. It’s easy to increase or decrease your resistance as needed, something that’s just not possible with manual shifting options.

The seat, which is elevated to a full 18”, glides smoothly along the rail, providing a singular, continuous motion to keep your workout going. It doesn’t snag or pull, and it feels effortless. There are six size adjustments on the footrests, as well as a velcro strap. Users of all different sizes will be comfortable and secure with these footrests, which is important in a rowing machine.

This Echelon Rowing Machine easily connects to your other Echelon machines using the Echelon Premier app.  You can track your workout across multiple machines and sessions in the app. The machine itself is Wi-Fi enabled and has an ethernet port. When it’s plugged in and connected, you can access your stats, classes, and more on the built-in 22” HD touch screen. It pivots, so you can move it however is most comfortable for you.

The machine also uses built-in Bluetooth speakers to turn your workout into an immersive experience. These speakers can be used with the app to hear your trainers and workout videos, but you can also connect your devices to hear your favorite music while you row away. The Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine comes with a 12-month limited warranty on parts and labor.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 32 Levels
• Resistance System: Magnetic
• Max Weight Capacity: 350lbs (159kg)
• Seat Height: 46cm (18”)
• Display: 22” HD Touch Screen
• Dimensions: 216cm x 61cm

The Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine is Great for:

• Users up to 350lbs
• Those who want a wider variety of magnetic resistance levels
• People interested in a higher-end rowing machine
• Echelon machine owners

The Highlights

The Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine has a total of 32 different magnetic resistance levels, so even beginners can improve their workout over time. The WiFi or Ethernet connection is extremely fast, which makes it easy to connect your machine to the Echelon app. The large, pivoting touchscreen keeps track of your progress and saves it to the app. You can track your progress this way. The six-foot-size adjustments make the machine more comfortable to use, and you can use the built-in Bluetooth speakers to play your favorite music while you row.  

• A full 32 resistance levels
• WiFi/Ethernet for connected Echelon app
• Six-foot size adjustments
• Built-in speakers for Bluetooth
• Large, pivoting touchscreen

Check Price at Echelon

Best Air Resistance: Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is a heavy-duty, air-resistance rowing machine. It offers superior tracking, increased weight capacity, and 10 resistance levels to help take your workout to the next level. Over time, you can increase your workout to suit your needs. If you have a subscription to other fitness apps, they may just be compatible with this advanced machine.

While some rowing machines are made for occasional home use, the Concept2 Model D was made for athletes. It uses a damping system to increase resistance, making it easy to get a dynamic workout no matter what level you’re at.

You can track your progress with the advanced PM5 monitor, a backlit LCD that displays your progress, including time, distance, and intervals. It’s compatible with heart rate monitoring, apps, and more. When you’re ready to export your data for comparison, you can save your workout to a USB flash drive. This display connects with several popular fitness apps, uses online rankings, and stores information right to your smartphone (if connected). Assembly is easy, and you can split the machine into two pieces for storage.

At the same time, it’s extremely quiet and smooth. Your workout is more enjoyable overall with this machine. It’s easily one of the best high-quality rowing machines in Canada on our list and comes with a limited 2-year and 5-year warranty for different parts and labor. The 500-pound weight limit helps it adapt to a wider range of users, too.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 10
• Resistance System: Air-based
• Max Weight Capacity: 500lbs (226.8kg)
• Seat Height: 35.6cm (14”)
• Display: PM5 backlit LCD
• Dimensions: 244cm x 61cm

The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is Great for:

• Heavier users (up to 500lbs)
• Users with smaller home gyms
• Those who want a quieter workout experience
• Users who have subscriptions to other fitness apps

The Highlights

Concept2’s Model D Indoor Rowing Machine can connect to a variety of fitness apps, so it’s probably compatible with the apps you already use. For those with smaller home gyms, it’s easy to separate the machine for storage. This frees up a lot of room for other machines. The display is a backlit PM5 LCD that focuses on progress. You can easily compare data from various sessions, and you can download it to a USB flash drive to see trends over longer periods. When in use, the smooth air resistance system makes the transition between different tension levels feel extremely satisfying.

• Connects to a variety of fitness apps
• Separates for storage
• Backlit LCD with comparable data
• Smooth air resistance system

Check Price at Amazon

Best Tension Levels: Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine uses hydro blades and a water tank to create levels of tension and resistance. The water-based resistance creates a smoother, more natural feel for your rowing. The 16 fan blades create a variable resistance as you row, a unique feature that makes your workout different every time. Unlike other water-based resistance systems, the tension adjustment isn’t manual – it’s the best of both worlds, including the natural feel and automatic resistance.

The frame is made of sturdy steel, which can support users up to 300 pounds. The seat is elevated off the rail, making for a better user experience for users who are a little taller, too. It’s wide and padded to help improve your posture as you work out. The foot pedals include a velcro strap to keep your feet secure, and they pivot to help your rowing feel that much better. When you aren’t using the machine, you can place it upright against a wall to preserve space.

The display is a simple R2 LCD fitness meter, which tracks metrics like time, total strokes, calories, heart rate, and ambient temperature. There are pre-programmed features and customizable options here as well, so you can make your workouts unique to your skill level.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 16
• Resistance System: Water-based
• Max Weight Capacity: 300lbs (136.1kg)
• Seat Height: Unspecified
• Display: R2 LCD fitness meter
• Dimensions: 203.2cm x 55.88cm x 86.36cm

The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine is Great for:

• For users who want a simple machine
• Those who prefer dynamic water resistance
• Users who prefer a padded, high-profile seat
• People with a smaller space for workouts

The Highlights

The Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine offers smooth, water-based resistance. It uses a flywheel and 16 fan blades to create an ever-changing resistance level for your workouts. The frame is constructed of sturdy steel and made into a single piece for stability. The display is a simple R2 fitness meter that tracks time, strokes, calories, and more for your current workout. When you aren’t using the machine, store it upright against a wall to save space.

• Flywheel and 16 fan blades create water-based resistance
• Sturdy steel construction
• R2 fitness meter tracks time, strokes, calories, and more
• Stores upright when not in use

Check Price at Amazon

Best Water Resistance: Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower

Xterra makes one of the best water-based resistance systems in Canada on our list. The Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower features a natural, variable feel while you’re rowing. It has six manual tension levels that can be adjusted by adding and removing water from the tank. The multi-bladed impeller moves the water through the tank, creating more resistance when the tank is full and less when it’s empty.

If you want the rowing to feel natural and less mechanical, a water-based resistance system is your answer. It’s a smooth, complete motion that feels more natural than a magnetic resistance system would. The seat is larger, contoured to be comfortable, and doesn’t jolt along the track.

You can track your progress on the large 5.5” LCD console. Here, you’ll find total time, 500M time, calories, distance, strokes, strokes/minute, date, room temperature, and clock. It’s one of the most comprehensive displays we’ve seen, especially when it comes to LCDs. You’ll also find programmable modes, including races, countdowns, and more.

You can store this rower by standing it up when not in use. Options like ergonomic rowing handles and flexing foot pedals make this a comfortable option for those who enjoy a more natural feel.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 6
• Resistance System: Water-based
• Max Weight Capacity: 300lbs (136.1kg)
• Seat Height: 34.3cm (13.5”)
• Display: 5.5” LCD Console
• Dimensions: 204.98cm x 55.88cm x 83.82cm

The Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower is Great for:

• Those who enjoy a more natural rowing feel
• People who want a larger, more comfortable seat with a high profile
• Users who don’t mind manual tension adjustment with water levels
• Users up to 300lbs

The Highlights

The Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower uses a water-based impeller to produce a smooth, natural rowing feeling. It’s one of the closest alternatives to actual rowing. There are six tension levels you can manually adjust with water levels in the tank. The flexing foot pedals make it easy for users of all sizes to enjoy their workouts. There are five programs accessible on the LCD console display, including a race, countdown, and more. When you’re done using this water rower, you can stand it up to store it. This greatly reduces its footprint and saves you space.

• Flexing pedals are great for users of all sizes
• Five programs on display
• 6 tension levels via a water-based impeller
• Can be stored standing up

Check Price at Amazon

Best Budget: Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine With Magnetic Resistance

Rowing machines don’t have to be expensive. The Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Magnetic resistance is easily a fraction of the price you’ll find on other machines on our list. Though this machine uses fewer features and a less complicated display, it still gets the job done – for much less, at that!

This machine offers 8 magnetic tension levels to get you started. You can adjust the tension with a knob, making it easy to switch between tension levels to elevate your workouts. Users up to 300 pounds and up to 6’2” are easily accommodated with the longer rail option, making it easy for most users to get a great workout in.

It’s an ergonomic machine as well, with a comfortable seat and non-slip foot pedals for stability. The machine offers a non-slip handlebar that is comfortable to hold and doesn’t slip out of a sweaty grip. Overall, this machine is made for comfort. Though the display is simpler than some of the other models we’ve seen, it still displays your calories, count, time, and total count. When you’re done with the machine, you can store it upright. It’s easy to move using the transportation wheels on the feet.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 8
• Resistance System: Magnetic
• Max Weight Capacity: 300lbs (136.1kg)
• Seat Height: Unspecified
• Display: LCD Console
• Dimensions: 198.1cm x 48.3cm x 58.9cm

The Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Magnetic Resistance is Great for:

• Users on a budget
• Lighters users (under 300lbs)
• Taller users who need a longer rail
• Those who want to store the rower when not in use

The Highlights

The Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Magnetic Resistance features 9 levels of magnetic resistance. It’s easy to adjust the resistance level with the included knob. The 122cm slide rail is extremely long compared to other models on our list, making it ideal for taller users. The non-slip foot pedals are textured. Paired with the foot straps, they help you stay safe and balanced as you work out. You can check your progress on the LCD console, which displays helpful metrics like calories, count, time, and total count.

• Non-slip foot pedals
• 122cm slide rail for taller users
• 9 levels of magnetic resistance
• LCD console displays calories, count, time, and total count for tracking

Check Price at Amazon

Best For Full-Body Workouts: Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine offers a variety of workouts, including more full-body options than the other machines on our list. There are 14 levels of magnetic resistance to consider, but you don’t have to figure out how to use it alone. The machine comes with a free trial of the MyCloudFtiness app, which is usable with other machines and independently of them as well. With these tools, including classes, analytics, and analysis, you’ll find your way to a better workout in no time.

Along the way, you can enjoy how easy this machine makes your workout. There’s a Bluetooth and tablet holder, which allows you to connect to the built-in Bluetooth speakers to experience your classes and entertainment more conveniently. The longer rail means full leg extension is possible for users up to 6’4” in height. A 3.5” LCD display keeps track of distance, time, total count, calories burned, strokes per minute, and more.

When you’re done with your rowing workout, fold the machine up and use it for more extensive workouts. Since there is no console to get in the way, you can use this machine to do curls, rows, front raises, and more workouts that challenge your body. When you’re done with rowing, you can get creative and target other parts of your body with a full-body workout.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 14
• Resistance System: Magnetic  
• Max Weight Capacity: 250lbs (113.4kg)
• Seat Height: Unspecified
• Display: 3.5” LCD Display
• Dimensions: 224.79cm x 54.61cm x 54.61cm

The Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine is Great for:

• Users who use MyCloudFitness App for their other gym equipment
• Users up to 6’4”
• People who want a full-body workout
• Those who appreciate simple display options

The Highlights

The Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine offers 14 levels of magnetic resistance, with options for beginners and advanced users alike. This machine connects easily to the MyCloudFitness app, and the purchase includes a 30-day free trial membership. The rail section is a full 48 inches long, which is ideal for users up to 6’4” tall. When you’re done with the machine, you can fold it up for storage or more full-body workout options.

• 14 levels of magnetic resistance for users of all levels
• App connectivity across machines
• Long rail for users up to 6’4”
• Folds down to save space and introduce more workouts

Check Price at Amazon

Best Magnetic Tension: DMASUN Foldable Indoor Rower

The DMASUN Foldable Indoor Rower has an extensive magnetic tension system. A belt drive and aluminum flywheel produce 16 levels of magnetic resistance. At the highest and most intense levels, this magnetic tension far surpasses some of the other magnetic machines on our list.

The 16 levels of adjustment make it a perfect option for beginners. Those at every level of ability will be able to get started with this rowing machine. It offers a simple knob to adjust the tension, as well as a simpler LCD display than we’ve seen on some models. Still, the display manages to track time, count, distance, calories, and more. Make sure to write your numbers down so you can compare your progress as your workouts increase in intensity.

You’ll find a comfortable, well-cushioned seat that helps produce good posture for your rowing workout. The non-slip handlebars and adjustable foot straps keep you comfortable, and the straps are adjustable for all different foot sizes.

When your workout is done, simply fold the machine down with the easy release system and store it out of the way. It’s a simple machine that offers stronger resistance than some of the other models on our list, so don’t let looks deceive you.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 16
• Resistance System: Magnetic
• Max Weight Capacity: 260lbs (118kg)
• Seat Height: Unspecified
• Display: LCD monitor
• Dimensions: 166.8cm x 50cm x 70.1cm

The DMASUN Foldable Indoor Rower is Great for:

• Users up to 260lbs
• Those who want a quieter workout experience
• People who use their phones as part of their workout
• Users who need more space in their home gyms

The Highlights

DMASUN’s Foldable Indoor Rower uses magnetic resistance powered by a belt drive. You’ll have 16 levels of adjustable tension for all of your workout needs, which is especially helpful for users of different skill and ability levels. A simple LCD monitor keeps track of workout metrics, including time, count, distance, and calories. It’s a little simpler than some of the other displays we’ve seen. It’s easy to fold this machine down and store it when you aren’t using it. When you are, you’ll find that the non-slip handles and pedals present better ergonomics so you feel secure while working out.

• 16 levels of magnetic resistance powered by a belt drive
• LCD monitor to track metrics and phone holder for entertainment
• Easy to fold down and store
• Non-slip handles and pedals for better ergonomics

Check Price at Amazon

Best For Taller Users: ECHANFIT Water Rowing Machine

ENCHANTFIT’s Water Rowing Machine is the best for taller uses, as the longer rail can accommodate users up to 6’6” in height. This far exceeds any of the other models we’ve looked at, and it can really make a difference for taller users.

It’s a water-based resistance system, with six adjustable tension levels determined by the amount of water in the tank. You can change the tension by adding or removing water, a manual system that creates a more natural rowing sensation. These levels aren’t set in stone, either – the resistance varies based on your rowing intensity, a unique feature in water-based systems.

The pedals and handle are non-slip and offer a soft, comfortable touch that won’t pinch or slide. A velcro foot strap keeps your foot securely in place, making sure it doesn’t come loose during rowing sessions. At the same time, the soft-touch handle saves your hands and prevents slipping due to sweaty hands.

The seat is larger, with better padding that is modeled after actual human bodies. Longer workouts will feel like a breeze when you’re properly seated on this ergonomic seat. The simple LCD window includes monitoring for time, calories, distance, count, and total count. You can keep track of these metrics by writing them down or saving them to your device. When you’re ready to end your session, you can tilt the machine up and roll it to store in a closet or against the wall.

Specs and Details:

• Tension Levels: 6
• Resistance System: Water-based
• Max Weight Capacity: 400lbs (181.4kg)
• Seat Height: 27.5cm (10.83”)
• Display: Digital tracker
• Dimensions: 181cm x 93cm x 51.5cm

The ECHANFIT Water Rowing Machine is Great for:

• Those who don’t mind manual resistance options
• Users up to 400 pounds
• Users up to 6’6” tall
• Those who prefer a smoother, more natural rowing feel

The Highlights

ENCHANFIT’s Water Rowing Machine has six levels of water-based resistance, which is adjusted manually with the water tank. The large, padded seat offers a comfortable workout for most, and the longer rail makes it suitable for users up to 6’6”. Non-slip pedals and a soft-touch handle work together to create a more stable, comfortable experience as well. A simple monitor keeps track of workout metrics, including distance, calories, and more.

• Six levels of water-based resistance
• Large padded seat for a more comfortable workout
• Non-slip pedals and a soft-touch handle
• Simple monitor tracks various metrics

Check Price at Amazon

Choosing A Rowing Machine For Canadians

Rowing machines can seem confusing. There’s a lot of new terminology and a wealth of options, so how can you choose the right machine for you? Thankfully, these tips can help you find the rowing machine of your dreams.

Why Do You Need a Rowing Machine?

A rowing machine can be a great addition to your home gym. They provide low-impact full-body workouts, so they’re perfect for those who experience discomfort with exercise. Using a rowing machine works every part of your body, including your legs, arms, and core. If you don’t have any other workout equipment in your home, a rowing machine can help you get more out of your space.

Rowing machines can shorten your workout time, but the full-body nature of the workout can also produce results quicker. If you want to do an hour’s worth of exercise in about 15 minutes, a rowing machine can help. As long as you gradually increase the tension and intensity, you might enjoy it more than other workouts, too!

Rowing machine workouts target your…

• Quadriceps
• Calves
• Glutes
• Pecs
• Arms
• Core
• Obliques

You don’t have to be a fitness expert to row, either! Variable tension and the low-impact nature of the workout creates a great environment for beginners as well. The steady, rhythmic motion can be soothing and more inviting than other workouts, too.

There’s an option for every user and an option at every price point. Use the tips below to help you find the rowing machine that’s right for you.

Basic Rowing Machine Specs

Here are some of the basic options you need to be aware of when shopping for a rowing machine in Canada.

Resistance Systems

The resistance system determines how much you’ll get out of your workout. The options represented on our list are:

• Air-based resistance: This uses your rowing intensity to determine resistance levels. These machines are often noisy, but they are smooth. These are best for more advanced users.
• Magnetic resistance: This type of machine offers more adjustment when it comes to tension, but the resistance usually isn’t as strong unless you’re rowing slowly. On the other hand, these options are durable.
• Water-based resistance: This type of machine offers a more realistic feeling. They are usually more expensive, but they can adjust in a few different ways and offer more versatility than the other resistance types.

Tension Levels

Tension levels determine how far you can take the machine. While having a few good tension levels is usually enough, true beginners may appreciate a larger spread of tension levels. More tension levels mean you can improve in smaller steps, allowing you to move forward with your workout at a pace that suits you.

At the very least, a machine should have 6 tension levels. The number of levels depends on the type of resistance, but magnetic machines can easily have 30+ tension levels for users of various skills and abilities.

Take a close look at the tension levels to determine if you want a gradual increase, or if you’re happy with taking large strides to maximize your workout performance.

Weight Capacity

Since the seat moves along the rail in a rowing machine, choosing one that can accommodate your weight is important. If you don’t, it could damage the machine or lead to injury. Use the weight capacity as a guideline, but exceeding it could be dangerous and void your warranty.

Size

The size of the rowing machine is an important factor to consider. These machines aren’t small, so you need to consider if you have the proper room for the machine. Some can be stored, so keep in mind that you don’t have to have the machine out all the time.

Rail Size

The length of the rail determines the height it can accommodate. Longer rails are best for taller users, so look for a longer rail if you’re taller than 6’2”.

Display

The display monitor can track important workout metrics for you, including time, calories, counts, and more. Choose a display that has all of the features you need. Some connect to external fitness apps, and some store information to track your improvement over time.

Special Rowing Machine Features

With the basics out of the way, it’s time to look at some extras and special features that you might consider for your rowing machine.

Storage

Most of us don’t have huge home gyms and often choose smaller machines to save space. Rowing machines are some of the largest you can choose, especially for smaller spaces. Thankfully, most machines fold up or can be stored upright against a wall. If you have a smaller space, look for special storage features as you shop for a rowing machine.

Fitness Apps

Some rowing machines have their fitness apps, while others offer universal compatibility with other apps. If you are determined to use a fitness app to track your progress, consider a machine that is compatible with your app of choice. If you’re unsure, you can also look for a machine with its own app. Most offer free membership or a free trial when you purchase a machine.

Footrests and Handlebars

The footrests and handlebars are some of the parts of the machine you’ll be dealing with the most. You need your feet to be securely placed in the footrests, and the handlebars should be smooth and comfortable. Look for machines with ergonomic, soft-touch, and non-slip options. If you have smaller (or larger) than average feet, consider a machine with adjustable footrests.

Smoothness

Rowing machines require a smooth motion. The seat moves along the rail smoothly and allows for a more effective, complete workout. Smoothness is an important feature to consider. If your rowing machine is bumpier or gets stuck or jammed, it can ruin your reps and may put you at risk. Look for machines that advertise and demonstrate a smooth, continuous glide.

Overview of the Best Rowing Machines in Canada

Now that you know what to look for, let’s recap why we chose the rowing machines on our list.

The Echelon Row S Connected Rowing Machine is our best overall pick because it has 32 levels of magnetic resistance, a sturdy build, and a built-in display for connecting with fitness apps.

The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is our best pick for an air-resistance system. It has 10 variable tension levels and is incredibly sturdy, able to support up to 500 pounds.

Meanwhile, the Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge Rowing Machine is our best pick for tension levels. This water-based resistance system changes tension as you go, with up to 16 different options that change the way the workout feels.

But when it comes to the best water resistance system on our list, the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower wins out. It presents a smoother, more natural rowing sensation with six levels of manual water-based resistance.

If you’re looking for a rowing machine on a budget, look no further than the Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with Magnetic Resistance. This machine is a fraction of the cost of the other machines on our list and still manages to provide great resistance and a sturdy frame.

The Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine is best for full-body workouts. When it folds up to store, it gives you more ways to use the machine to work out other parts of your body. It’s an all-in-one solution!

While many of the machines on our list use magnetic tension, the DMASUN Foldable Indoor Rower is one of the best among them. It uses a belt drive and aluminum flywheel to produce 16 adjustable non-slip tension levels for all users.

Finally, the ENCHANFIT Water Rowing Machine is best for taller users. While some of the machines on our list only support users up to 6’2” or 6’4”, this machine is suitable for users up to 6’6”.