10 Best Rowing Machine For Heavy People 2026 in the United States

The Concept2 RowErg is a sturdy rowing machine well-suited for heavier users, boasting a high weight capacity of up to 500 pounds. Its frame combines aluminum and stainless steel, providing durability without making it too heavy to move around, especially with its caster wheels and simple two-piece storage design. The seat is set 14 inches high, which should be comfortable for most people, and the adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle help accommodate different body sizes and provide a secure rowing position.

The resistance is air-based and adjustable via a damper, delivering a smooth and quiet rowing experience that mimics real water rowing well. This makes workouts both effective and low-impact on joints. The included Performance Monitor 5 is a standout feature, showing accurate workout data like pace, watts, and calories. It also connects wirelessly to fitness apps and heart rate monitors, which can be motivating and helpful for tracking progress.

On the downside, the machine takes up a decent amount of space (about 9 by 4 feet when set up), which might be challenging for very small rooms. Also, the seat height and size are standard but may not suit everyone equally, especially those needing extra large seats or extra cushioning. Powering the monitor requires two D batteries, which is simple but something to keep in mind. This rowing machine is a reliable and strong option that supports heavier weights and offers detailed workout tracking, though it requires a fair bit of floor space and might not have specialized comfort features found in some other models.

The Merach Rowing Machine is designed for home use and caters to individuals up to 350 lbs, making it suitable for heavier users. Its alloy steel frame ensures durability and stability, while the dual slide rail system provides a smoother and more stable rowing experience, mimicking the motion of wooden rowing machines.

The seat is moderately comfortable with dimensions of 9.5L x 11.5W x 2.3H inches, which should be satisfactory for most users but might be a bit small for some considering the target audience. The machine features 16 levels of quiet magnetic resistance, allowing for a customizable and low-noise workout, which is ideal for home environments where noise could disturb others. The footrests are equipped with adjustable straps to secure your feet during workouts, although the comfort might vary depending on individual foot sizes and preferences.

The built-in LCD monitor tracks essential workout metrics like speed, calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance, and the machine is compatible with the Merach and Kinomap apps, which provide additional training programs and immersive rowing experiences. The Merach Rowing Machine is relatively compact with dimensions of 65L x 19.3W x 24.8H inches and includes wheels for easy movement and storage, making it a practical choice for small spaces. It is easy to assemble, with most users able to set it up within 30 minutes. However, the lack of a larger or more cushioned seat and the moderate quality of the footrests might be areas to consider for those prioritizing maximum comfort. The machine comes with a one-year manufacturer's warranty.

The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is a solid choice for heavy people thanks to its 375-pound weight capacity. Its aluminum frame is both sturdy and lightweight at 102 pounds, which makes it easier to move and store. The padded seat and adjustable foot straps ensure comfort during workouts, and the 16” HD touchscreen with built-in speakers enhances the exercise experience by offering immersive, on-the-water-like rowing sessions.

The magnetic resistance mechanism provides a smooth and quiet workout, which is ideal for home use. Additionally, the rower can be stored upright, though the necessary storage kit is sold separately, which could be a downside for some users. Another potential drawback is that a membership costing $44/month is required to access workouts and fully utilize the machine's features. However, this membership offers a variety of workout styles led by world-class instructors, which could be beneficial for maintaining motivation and achieving fitness goals.

The Hydrow Wave is also compatible with Bluetooth devices, allowing users to connect heart-rate monitors and wireless headphones for a more integrated fitness experience. While the machine's size (80”L x 19”W x 43”H) may require a significant amount of space, its foldable design helps mitigate this issue. In summary, it's a feature-rich rowing machine with excellent support for heavy users, though the additional costs and space requirements should be considered.