Rowing Machine . . . for a demanding strength-building and calorie-burning workout

A rowing machine is one of those rare pieces of exercise equipment that offers an opportunity for a thorough, total body workout and improved cardio health.

Meant to simulate the invigorating task of rowing a boat across water with oars, this machine exercises your core, arms, legs, and back -- all of the major muscle groups. As an added bonus, it's such a low-impact exercise that even pregnant women can use it.

Rowers come in five basic types, arranged according to the method of resistance: air, air/magnetic, magnetic, water, and piston. As you might expect, each of these categories sit at a different price point -- hydraulic piston resistance being the most inexpensive, and water rowers standing at the upper end of the price scale.

There are many different brands, but Concept 2 rowers are probably the most well known. These health-club quality rowers are so highly regarded that the U.S. Olympic Rowing Team uses them to stay sharp during the off-season.

BodyCraft, Kettler, Stamina, and Tunturi are some other popular rower brands.

For much more information about rowers, please see our guide below . . .

Rowing Machine Reviews by Brand and Model