Water resistance rowing machines use water as the primary means of providing resistance, while magnetic resistance machines use magnets to create resistance. In this article we will compare the two very popular resistance types of water vs magnetic rower.
My Top Water VS Magnetic Rower Picks:
 | WaterRower Natural |
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 | Hydrow Wave |
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Water Resistance
The main difference between a water vs magnetic rower is that a water resistance indoor rowing machine provides a quieter, more natural rowing experience that closely mimics and simulates the actual experience and feeling of rowing on the water. This engages your muscles for maximum strength and cardiovascular conditioning. With little to no noise aside from the relaxing sound of the water splashing against the water flywheel, it gives you the feeling that you are right there on the river or lake. Water resistance offers greater stability and control, allowing for a better workout and improved form as providing a smooth natural rowing stroke can be easier on your joints and back.
Pros
- Smooth and realistic
- Resistance scales on effort
- Relaxing sound
Cons
- Resistance requires effort to adjust
- Tablets required to keep tank clean
The most popular water resistance rowing machine is the WaterRower Natural. Hand crafted in USA from sustainable solid ash wood which absorbs sound and vibration makes it a truly natural and enjoyable rowing experience.
Magnetic Resistance
Magnetic resistance is much more consistent and precise, allowing for a better gauge of how much power you are exerting. Resistance on a magnetic rowing machine is generally more adjustable so you are able to set specific resistance levels which allows for a more customizable workout by adjusting resistance levels. They are also quite popular due to the fact that they can be pretty quiet like their water resistance rowing machine counterparts unlike the noisy air rowing machines such as the Concept2 RowErg rowing machine.
Magnetic resistance indoor rowing machines generally tend to be less expensive and require less maintenance, as there are no fluid parts to replace. They are also very popular for beginners as they are seen as easier to use, however with whichever rowing machine you decide to purchase it is vitally important to practice the correct rowing stroke in order to avoid injury.
Pros
- Low maintenance
- Adjustable Resistance
- Less moving parts
Cons
- Resistance can feel unnatural
- Durability concerns for cheaper models
One of the best magnetic resistance indoor rowing machines that exists is the Hydrow Wave rowing machine. It features a modern polymer and stainless steel frame and includes 50-300 resistance levels to choose from
Conclusion
Whether it’s the more natural feeling and sound of the water resistance rowing machines or the convenience of setting your specific resistance on a magnetic resistance rowing machine, both provide their benefits. Overall, it depends on your preferences and budget for which one you choose. Both provide excellent exercise and are well worth investing in. Ultimately, the choice between either the water vs magnetic rower comes down to personal preference, your fitness goals and which one you feel most comfortable with.
The main downside with magnetic resistance is that it needs to be engineered extremely well in order for it to offer a realistic rowing experience. Most of the budget magnetic rowing machines out there for purchase do not offer a consistent or realistic rowing stroke.
This is where the water resistance rowing machines excel when comparing a water vs magnetic rower. If you are after a great rowing experience I would suggest going for a water resistance rowing machine or if you are interested in a magnetic rowing machine for the benefits it provides such as specific adjustable resistance levels, then have a look into a magnetic rowing machine like the Hydrow Wave where they have done a great job engineering a realistic rowing stroke.