Compact Rowing Machines for Small Spaces

Rowing machines provide an effective, full-body workout, but many people worry about the space they require, especially in apartments or smaller living areas. Luckily, there are compact and foldable rowing machines designed to fit in tight spaces without compromising on performance. In this blog, we’ll explore the best rowing machines for small spaces, focusing on models that offer foldable designs, easy storage, and portability. Whether you live in an apartment or have a limited home gym setup, these machines can help you get the most out of your workout space.

Why Choose a Compact Rowing Machine?

Compact rowing machines are designed with space-saving features in mind, making them an excellent choice for smaller homes or apartments. Here are a few key reasons why people opt for compact rowers:

    Space Efficiency: Compact rowing machines often feature foldable designs or smaller footprints, making them easier to store when not in use. Many models are designed to be stored vertically or moved with built-in transport wheels.

    Portability: Many compact rowers are lighter and come with wheels, allowing you to move them around your home as needed. This is ideal for users who may need to store the machine out of sight after their workout.

    No Compromise on Performance: Despite their smaller size, compact rowers still provide a full-body workout. You’ll engage your legs, core, and upper body without needing a large, commercial-grade machine.

Let’s take a look at some of the best compact rowing machines for small spaces.

Top Compact Rowing Machines for Apartments and Small Spaces

1. Concept2 Model D with PM5 Monitor

While the Concept2 Model D is often recognized for its performance in professional gyms, it’s also an excellent option for home gyms and small spaces thanks to its foldable design and ease of storage. The machine separates into two pieces for quick storage, and built-in caster wheels make it easy to move around.

Key Features:

    Foldable Design: The Concept2 can be separated into two pieces without tools, allowing it to fit in tight spaces.

    PM5 Monitor: This monitor tracks essential data such as stroke rate, pace, time, and calories burned. It also connects to apps like ErgData for performance tracking.

    Air Resistance: The machine uses air resistance, which adjusts automatically to your effort level, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

Why It’s Great for Small Spaces: The Concept2’s ability to fold up and its built-in wheels make it easy to store vertically in a closet or against a wall, perfect for those with limited floor space.

Pros:

    Easy to store and move.

    High-quality construction and durability.

    Accurate performance tracking with the PM5 monitor.

Cons:

    Air resistance can be noisy.

    Slightly larger footprint when in use compared to other compact models.

2. Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050

For those looking for an affordable and compact rower, the Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 is a great option. This hydraulic resistance rower is small enough to fit in any living space while still providing a full-body workout. Its footprint is minimal, and it can be stored upright or under furniture when not in use.

Key Features:

    Hydraulic Resistance: The Stamina BodyTrac Glider uses adjustable hydraulic resistance, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate rowers.

    Compact Frame: With a small footprint, this machine is ideal for apartments and spaces where you need to conserve room.

    Ergonomic Design: The machine features an adjustable, cushioned seat and padded handlebars, ensuring a comfortable rowing experience.

Why It’s Great for Small Spaces: The Stamina BodyTrac Glider has one of the smallest footprints on the market, and it’s easy to store upright in a closet or even under a bed, making it perfect for apartment dwellers.

Pros:

    Extremely compact and lightweight.

    Budget-friendly.

    Easy to store.

Cons:

    Hydraulic resistance is not as smooth as water or air resistance.

    Limited advanced features or performance tracking.

3. XTERRA Fitness ERG200 Folding Magnetic Rower

The XTERRA Fitness ERG200 is a magnetic resistance rower designed for home use, offering smooth and quiet performance in a compact frame. The machine folds easily for storage and is equipped with transport wheels, making it ideal for those who need to move their equipment frequently.

Key Features:

    Magnetic Resistance: The ERG200 offers 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance, allowing users to customize the intensity of their workouts.

    Foldable Design: This rower folds vertically to minimize its footprint, making it a great space-saving option.

    LCD Monitor: Tracks time, stroke count, calories burned, and total strokes to help monitor your progress.

Why It’s Great for Small Spaces: The XTERRA ERG200’s folding frame and lightweight construction make it easy to move and store. It’s a quiet machine, perfect for use in apartments where noise might be a concern.

Pros:

    Quiet operation due to magnetic resistance.

    Easy to fold and store.

    Compact and lightweight design.

Cons:

    Not ideal for advanced rowers looking for high resistance levels.

    Basic performance monitor with limited tracking features.

4. ProForm 750R Rower

The ProForm 750R is a smart rower that combines compact storage with interactive fitness features. This machine uses magnetic resistance and features iFit integration, allowing users to access live and on-demand rowing workouts through the iFit platform. Despite its high-tech features, the ProForm 750R folds easily and is designed for small spaces.

Key Features:

    Magnetic Resistance: The ProForm 750R features 24 levels of magnetic resistance, offering smooth and quiet operation with a wide range of intensity options.

    iFit Compatible: With an iFit subscription, users can access interactive training, live classes, and more. The rower’s console holds your tablet or smartphone for easy viewing during workouts.

    Space-Saving Design: The ProForm 750R folds vertically, making it easy to store when not in use.

Why It’s Great for Small Spaces: The ProForm 750R’s foldable design ensures it can fit in apartments or small home gyms, and its quiet magnetic resistance system won’t disturb others in the household.

Pros:

    Folds easily for storage.

    iFit compatibility for interactive workouts.

    Smooth, quiet magnetic resistance.

Cons:

    Requires an iFit subscription for full functionality.

    Larger footprint when in use compared to ultra-compact models.

5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Foldable Rower

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 is an affordable, compact rowing machine that folds easily and offers a smooth rowing experience with 16 levels of magnetic resistance. It’s a great option for beginners or those looking for a budget-friendly rower that doesn’t take up too much space.

Key Features:

    Magnetic Resistance: The machine offers 16 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance for a customizable workout.

    Compact and Foldable: It folds vertically and includes built-in transport wheels, making it easy to move and store in small spaces.

    Performance Monitor: The monitor tracks time, calories, and stroke count, giving users basic workout data.

Why It’s Great for Small Spaces: With a foldable frame and lightweight design, the SF-RW5801 is ideal for small homes or apartments where space is at a premium. It’s also affordable, making it an attractive option for those who want to start rowing without a major investment.

Pros:

    Budget-friendly.

    Easy to store and transport.

    Quiet operation with magnetic resistance.

Cons:

    Basic performance monitor with limited tracking.

    Not suitable for advanced rowers.

Best Foldable Rowers for Small Spaces

When space is at a premium, foldable rowers offer a convenient solution. Here’s a recap of the best foldable rowing machines:

    Concept2 Model D: Best for those who want a high-performance rower with a foldable design. Ideal for serious rowers who need accurate tracking and easy storage.

    XTERRA Fitness ERG200: A great compact rower with magnetic resistance and foldable design, perfect for apartments and small spaces.

    ProForm 750R: Offers interactive, iFit-compatible workouts with a space-saving design. Perfect for users looking for a mix of smart features and compact storage.

Conclusion: Which Compact Rower is Right for You?

Choosing the right compact rowing machine depends on your fitness goals, budget, and available space. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

    For Serious Rowers: The Concept2 Model D is your best bet if you’re looking for a professional-grade machine that’s easy to store and move.

    For Budget-Conscious Users: The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 offers a simple, compact design at a very affordable price.

    For High-Tech Features: The ProForm 750R combines smart features like iFit compatibility with a foldable frame, making it perfect for those who want interactive training in a small space.

    For Quiet Workouts: The XTERRA Fitness ERG200 and Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 provide smooth and quiet magnetic resistance, ideal for apartment living.

Whichever rower you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of a full-body workout without worrying about space constraints. Compact rowing machines are designed to fit seamlessly into your home, allowing you to maintain your fitness routine even in smaller living areas.