Rowing Machine vs Exercise Bike: Which is Better?

Not sure which setup is right for you?

Both rowing machines and exercise bikes deliver excellent cardio. Choosing between them depends on your goals, space, and what you'll actually use consistently.

Muscles Worked

Rowing machine: Full body. 86% of muscles engaged: legs drive, back pulls, arms finish. Core stabilises throughout. It's strength and cardio combined.

Exercise bike: Lower body focused. Quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves. Core engagement is minimal unless you're standing.

If muscle building matters alongside cardio, rowing wins.

Calorie Burn

At moderate intensity (30 minutes): - Rowing: 250-350 calories - Cycling: 200-300 calories

The difference isn't huge. Row harder, burn more. Cycle harder, burn more. Consistency matters more than marginal calorie differences.

Joint Impact

Both are low impact compared to running. Rowing has zero impact because you're seated throughout. Cycling is nearly zero but can aggravate knee issues if bike fit is wrong.

For joint problems or injury recovery, both are gentler than most cardio options.

Space Requirements

Rowing machine: 2m+ length when in use. The [Concept2](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NH9WEUA?tag=homegymadvice-21) folds to stand upright. The [JLL R200](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21) folds smaller.

Exercise bike: 1.2m x 0.5m footprint. Doesn't fold but smaller overall.

For tight spaces, bikes fit more easily. But a foldable rower works if you have storage space.

Noise Levels

Magnetic rowers: Near silent. The [JLL R200](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21) is flat friendly.

Air rowers: Louder. The fan generates constant noise that scales with effort.

Exercise bikes: Quiet if magnetic or belt-driven. The [JLL IC300](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FXFCT5NL?tag=homegymadvice-21) is quiet enough for early morning use.

Learning Curve

Bike: None. Everyone knows how to pedal.

Rowing: Proper technique takes practice. Bad form leads to back strain. Watch technique videos before buying.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a rowing machine if: - Full-body workout matters - You want strength and cardio combined - You'll learn proper technique - Space allows or you'll fold it for storage

Choose an exercise bike if: - You want simple, sit-and-go cardio - Space is limited - You have lower back issues, as the upright position is easier - You'll use apps like Zwift or Peloton

Our Recommendations

Best rower: [Concept2 RowErg](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NH9WEUA?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£999) or [JLL R200](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FX2WL2FK?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£59) for budget

Best bike: [JLL IC300](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FXFCT5NL?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£179) or [Joroto X2](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F6MKFTFH?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£299) for mid-range

The Real Answer

The best cardio equipment is whatever you'll actually use. Try both if possible. Many people have strong preferences they didn't expect. A £59 rower you use beats a £999 rower collecting dust.

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