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When considering your options in a rowing machine, the subject of resistance will invariably come up. There are currently four types of resistance models used in most modern rowing machines: pistol, air, magnetic and water.

All things considered, each of the four types can supply you with adequate resistance for use during your exercises and workouts. Pistol-based rowing machines are frequently found on low-end compact units and are used primarily for home gyms by novice exercisers while many commercial gyms seem to prefer either an air or a water rowing machine for use by their clients.

Along with their smattering of features and varying levels of performance, the different types of rowing machines bring with them their own maintenance requirements, cost and other factors that you will want to consider when making your purchase decision.

Why Use A Water Rowing Machine

A water rowing machine will provide the most realistic feeling of actually sculling on a boat in the water. Instead of using technology that simulates the feel of water, it uses a flywheel spinning on real water to generate a counter-force that successfully recreates the sensations of coursing through open channels.

The water rowing machine provides a resistance that is so smooth and so representative of how water reacts to the paddle in a real rowing session. Since it facilitates hitch-free motion, you won’t experience jarring motions and jerking movements common in other forms of rowing devices like air and pistols. The absence of sudden loosening and tightening makes the water rowing machine completely safe and easy to get a handle of, with zero danger of damaging joints.

Since it is usually more expensive than other rowing equipment, a water rowing machine is often fitted with elegant designs that makes it both a useful exercise implement and an eye candy to boot. Scuffing-proof rails are a guarantee on pretty much all water rowing machine models, along with polished wood finishes.

While most modern rowers are relatively quiet, water rowing machine units are especially so. In fact, they are the most silent of all four available resistance types. Coupled with slide seats that glide smoothly across its frame, they are about as noise-free as exercise machines can get.

The biggest factor going for a water rowing machine over other units, however, is its relatively maintenance-free operation. Forget about greasing, tune-ups and monthly maintenance checks – water-based rowers need none of that. The only work you will ever need to do is replace the water every once in a while – an incredibly easy task.

In terms of design and operation, the water rowing machine is virtually unmatched. It offers the best resistance out of all types of rowing machines. Generating the same natural dynamics as real sculling, you can close your eyes and feel like you’re out on a boat in open waters without ever getting wet.