Best Rowing Machines UK 2025
Find the best rowing machine for your home gym. We compare Concept2, water rowers, and budget options for UK buyers.
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Take Our QuizRowing machines deliver the ultimate full-body cardio workout. 86% of your muscles working simultaneously: legs, back, arms, core. All in a low-impact motion that's easy on joints.
The Gold Standard: Concept2 RowErg
The [Concept2 RowErg](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NH9WEUA?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£999) is what every gym uses. Every CrossFit box. Every Olympic training centre. There's a reason.
The air resistance flywheel provides natural, scalable resistance: row harder, get more resistance. The PM5 monitor tracks everything and syncs with training apps. Build quality means decades of use with minimal maintenance.
It also folds in half for storage and separates into two pieces for tight spaces.
If budget allows, buy the Concept2. You won't regret it.
Best Budget: JLL R200
The [JLL R200 Rowing Machine](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£59) proves you don't need to spend big to start rowing. Magnetic resistance is whisper-quiet, perfect for flats and early morning workouts.
10 resistance levels and basic LCD display. The action won't match a Concept2, but at this price it gets people rowing who wouldn't otherwise.
Folds for storage and weighs under 25kg.
Best Mid-Range: JTX Freedom Air
At £449, the JTX Freedom Air bridges the gap between budget and premium. Air resistance like the Concept2 but at half the price.
Build quality is solid, monitor tracks essential metrics, and the rowing action feels natural. It's the sweet spot for serious home rowers who can't justify Concept2 prices.
Air vs Magnetic vs Water
Air rowers (Concept2) provide natural, scalable resistance and are used in competitions. They're louder but feel most like actual rowing.
Magnetic rowers ([JLL R200](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21)) are near-silent. Resistance stays constant regardless of speed. Less natural but quiet enough for flats.
Water rowers look gorgeous and sound like actual rowing. They're expensive, require maintenance with algae tablets, and the resistance can feel inconsistent.
For most home users: Concept2 if you can afford it, magnetic if noise matters.
Space Considerations
Rowers are long, typically 2+ metres. Most fold or stand upright for storage.
The [Concept2](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NH9WEUA?tag=homegymadvice-21) folds to 2.5m x 0.6m x 1.3m when upright. The [JLL R200](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21) folds smaller and lighter.
Measure your storage space before buying.
Products Mentioned in This Guide
Concept2 Model D RowErg
Concept2
The gold standard rowing machine used in gyms worldwide. Air resistance provides infinite scalability, and the PM5 monit...
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Start the QuizFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best rowing machine for home use UK?
The Concept2 RowErg is the gold standard used in gyms worldwide. For budget buyers, the JLL R200 offers great value. Water rowers like the Joroto MR280 provide a quieter, authentic feel.
Is a rowing machine better than a treadmill?
Rowing works 86% of your muscles (full body) vs treadmills which focus on lower body. Rowers are also lower impact on joints and take up less space when stored vertically.
Air rower vs magnetic rower - which is better?
Air rowers (like Concept2) feel more natural and are used in competitions. Magnetic rowers are significantly quieter - better for flats and shared homes.
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