One of the greatest advantages of indoor rowing is that all you need is a rowing machine. Rowing machines are readily available directly from the manufacturer and are quite affordable compared to other exercise equipment.

When you look at the possible purchase of a rowing machine, consider reliability, durability, price, ease of use, storage, the monitor on the machine, and manufacturer support. You may also have your own criteria.

Many pieces of equipment may be described as rowing machines.  But there is one that is used most often by rowers and a small group of others that are also highly considered because they offer a high quality, reliable experience. The most widely used machine is made by Concept2 in Vermont.  Learn more about it at www.concept2.com.

A second well-known rowing machine is made by WaterRower and was developed in Rhode Island. The original model comes with a wooden frame. The other main distinguishing feature of WaterRower machines is that they use water enclosed in a horizontal wheel instead of air in a vertical wheel to provide resistance. For more information, see the company’s Web site at www.WaterRower.com.

The Australian-made RowPerfect rowing machine was developed for competitive rowers. The manufacturer says it provides an experience that is most like rowing on the water. You will find that the RowPerfect folks provide links to a great deal of information about rowing at the bottom of their home page. See www.RowPerfect.com.

One of the newest machines is made by Oar-Tec, also of Australia.  It is more expensive but is designed to allow the user to select one of two handles to mimic the motion of different forms of rowing (sweep or sculling).  Learn more at www.oartec.com.au.

Learn more about these machines in the book, from using what is available at your local Y or health club, from talking with rowers, and by examining the manufacturers’ Web sites.