Did you know that rowing machines use up to 85% of your body? If you can get your rowing form down, your machine can provide an effective workout that tones your muscles and focuses on building strength. The best rowing machines in Canada gradually allow you to increase the difficulty and resistance, so you can build up to the harder workouts.
What We Looked For
We wanted to recommend rowing machines that use a mix of resistance levels (water and magnetic rowing), so you get a choice between a more authentic feel and an easy-to-maintain machine. These options range from full-size home gym machines to options you can store when you aren’t using them, with features and resistance levels that run the gambit of what to expect out of your home exercise equipment.
Best Rowing Machines in Canada: Our Best Gift Picks
1. Merach Rowing Machine
2. Wenoker Rowing Machine
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine
4. JOROTO Water Rowing Machine
5. Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Full Motion Rowing Machine
Best overall rowing machine in Canada: Merach Rowing Machine
Pros:
- Quiet magnetic resistance suits shared living spaces
- Dual-track rail improves stability during longer rows
- Free Merach app with guided courses and workout tracking
- Compact footprint with transport wheels for easier storage
Cons:
- Requires a phone or tablet for app-based metrics
The Details:
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Frame Material: Aluminum, Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 165 x 42 x 65 cm
- Max Weight: 181 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 7″
For home users short on space, the Merach Q1S offers a compact magnetic rowing setup that won’t take over your room. It supports users up to about 181 kg and accommodates taller rowers, all while staying quiet enough for apartment living. The app-based experience is the main draw, handling coaching and workout tracking instead of relying on a built-in console.
Magnetic resistance adjusts across multiple levels, keeping the rowing motion smooth and controlled instead of jerky. A dual-track rail adds stability, which is especially helpful for newer users still settling into proper form. With support for the Merach app and Kinomap, workouts can be structured, saved, and revisited using your own device.
Setup is relatively quick, with part of the assembly already done out of the box and total build time typically under 30 minutes. At around 20 kg, the frame is light enough to roll aside when not in use. Adjustable foot straps and an ergonomic seat help keep longer sessions comfortable once you find your stride.
This rower works best for people who are comfortable using a phone or tablet for stats and motivation. Riders looking for a heavier, more water-like rowing feel may prefer a different resistance style. For quiet, guided workouts in a home setting, the balance here is practical and approachable.
Our Expert Opinion: “The Merach Rowing Machine is great for use in just about any home gym. It offers guided sessions (rare, especially when it doesn’t have a built-in screen). If you don’t mind not having the genuine feel of water resistance, this quiet rowing machine can help you reach your goals.”
Customers Are Saying: “This rowing machine is super quiet and moves smoothly, which is great for me in my shared space. The full-body exercise is worth it once you get used to the technique!”
Who is the Merach Rowing Machine for?
- Home users who need structured, app-guided workouts. If you choose to use the free Merach app, you can get access to app-guided workouts that help improve your outcomes.
- Canadians who need quieter workout equipment. This rowing machine is extremely quiet during operation.
- Taller users. The longer rowing frame is ideal for Canadians up to 6′ 7″ in height, so taller Canadians can exercise comfortably.
Who should avoid the Merach Rowing Machine?
- Those who prefer built-in displays. The Merach Rowing Machine doesn’t come with any built-in screens for tracking metrics, so you’ll need to use your own devices and the Merach app to track your progress.
Instead, choose… the Wenoker Rowing Machine.
The Wenoker Rowing Machine uses a built-in LCD monitor to track performance, but it also features a tablet holder if you want to use fitness apps or watch your favourite media while you row.
Features Breakdown
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Frame Material: Aluminum, Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 165 x 42 x 65 cm
- Max Weight: 158.7 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 7″
- Tracked Metrics: Distance, Time, Calories Burned, Speed, Heart Rate, Cadence, and More
- Resistant Levels: 16
- Item Weight: 20 kg
Best compact rowing machine in Canada: Wenoker Rowing Machine
Pros:
- Quiet magnetic resistance suitable for shared spaces
- Built-in LCD monitor tracks core metrics
- Compact frame with transport wheels for easier storage
- Adjustable foot straps and ergonomic seat
Cons:
- Only 8 resistance levels
The Details:
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 89 x 19 x 57 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 2″
At a glance, the Wenoker Rowing Machine suits home users who want quiet cardio without giving up much floor space. The magnetic resistance system makes it quiet to row, which makes it easier to exercise early or late without disturbing others. An integrated LCD monitor covers the basics, so tracking workouts doesn’t depend on apps or subscriptions.
Resistance adjusts across eight levels, offering enough range for steady conditioning and lighter strength-focused sessions. The long slide rail accommodates different heights, while the cushioned seat and textured handle help reduce fatigue during longer rows. Together, these elements keep movement smooth and controlled rather than abrupt.
Assembly is easy, with much of the frame arriving pre-assembled and only minimal setup required. Once in place, the alloy steel construction feels stable, and transport wheels make it easy to move out of the way after use. Its compact footprint works well in smaller rooms where equipment needs to be easy to move around.
This rower will appeal most to people who want quiet, self-paced workouts without extra screens or paid platforms. Users looking for a broader resistance range or a more immersive rowing feel may prefer other designs. For straightforward home fitness, the balance here feels great.
Our Expert Opinion: “Wenoker emphasizes comfort, low noise, and ease of use over advanced training features. For many home users, that simplicity is exactly what makes it easy to develop routines you’ll stick with.”
Customers Are Saying: “I like how compact this rower is, and that it can stand up vertically when I’m not using it. It saves space in my basement without being in the way all the time.”
Who is the Wenoker Rowing Machine for?
- Those who prefer to exercise quietly. This rowing machine works at less than 30 dB on most settings, so you can exercise quietly late at night or early in the morning.
- Canadians who want screen-based workout tracking. The integrated screen shows your raw exercise data, so you can log and track the metrics that matter to you.
- Homes with limited storage space. This is an extremely compact rowing machine, but it remains comfortable for users up to 6′ 2″.
Who should avoid the Wenoker Rowing Machine?
- Advanced rowers seeking higher resistance ranges. There are only 8 resistance ranges available here, which means that there aren’t a lot of progression options for those who want to meet lofty goals.
Instead, choose… the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine.
The JOROTO Water Rowing Machine uses a different mechanism for resistance. When you need more resistance, you can adjust the amount of water in the tank. This can lead to a more gradual increase in activity and effort, instead of using pre-determined resistance levels that might not work for you.
Features Breakdown
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 89 x 19 x 57 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 2″
- Tracked Metrics: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories Burned
- Resistant Levels: 8
- Item Weight: 22 kg
Best affordable rowing machine in Canada: Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine
Pros:
- Lightweight, compact frame that’s easy to move and store.
- 12-level hydraulic resistance allows for quick intensity changes.
- Quiet operation suited to shared living spaces.
Cons:
- Hydraulic resistance leads to shorter strokes than magnetic resistance.
The Details:
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 135 x 51 x 54 cm
- Max Weight: 99 kg
- Max Height: Unspecified
The Sunny Health & Fitness rowing machine is an approachable option for beginners. It suits home users who want low-impact, full-body movement without dedicating much room to equipment. The compact footprint and quiet hydraulic resistance go a long way toward making this compact rowing machine a viable option for your home gym.
Hydraulic resistance adjusts across 12 levels using a simple dial, making it easy to fine-tune intensity during a workout. The rowing motion engages legs, core, and upper body in a controlled way, which works well for steady cardio rather than power-focused training. Pivoting foot pedals help maintain a comfortable range of motion through each stroke.
Setup is quick, and the lightweight frame makes the machine easy to move when it’s not in use. At roughly 9.5 kg, it can be lifted or slid aside without much effort. The alloy steel construction feels stable for its size, and the LCD monitor tracks time, counts, and calories without pulling focus away from the workout.
This design fits best for beginners or casual users who value convenience over realism. Taller or heavier users, or those looking for longer, more forceful strokes, may want a larger rowing machine. For compact, low-impact home fitness, this machine makes it easy to carve out space in your existing routine.
Our Expert Opinion: “The Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing machine is accessible and easy to use, which often matters more than intensity at a beginner level. It’s a practical choice for light to moderate home rowing, particularly when space is at a premium.”
Customers Are Saying: “I couldn’t ask for better for this price point. The resistance is easy to manage and I can store it when I’m not using it, so it doesn’t take up too much space in my home office. It’s a bit more basic than some of the other options, but overall feels great for home use.”
Who is the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine for?
- Beginners starting low-impact cardio at home. This basic machine is great for those just starting out with low-impact cardio workouts.
- Users with limited storage space. True to the name, this rowing machine is extremely compact and easy to store when not in use.
- People who want quick setup and quiet workouts. Hydraulic resistance is quieter, and it’s easy to get started with this rowing machine without going overboard.
Who should avoid the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine?
- Heavier Canadians. The weight limit on this rower is a little restrictive for heavier Canadians, and it becomes more difficult to use as you get closer to the weight limit.
Instead, choose… the Merach Rowing Machine.
The Merach Rowing Machine is a full-sized rower that has a much higher weight limit. Canadians up to 158 kg can use the Merach Rowing Machine easily. If you need a machine that works better with your fitness goals, the Merach might be a better option for you.
Features Breakdown
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 135 x 51 x 54 cm
- Max Weight: 99 kg
- Max Height: Unspecified
- Tracked Metrics: Time, Count, Total Count, Calories
- Resistant Levels: 12
- Item Weight: 9.3 kg
Best water rowing machine in Canada: JOROTO Water Rowing Machine
Pros:
- Water resistance delivers a natural, responsive rowing feel
- Solid oak frame supports heavier Canadians
- Foldable design helps reduce storage space when not in use
Cons:
- Heavier build makes frequent moving less convenient
The Details:
- Resistance Type: Water
- Frame Material: Oak
- Dimensions: 198.2 x 51.8 x 64.2 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 10.7″
There’s a clear emphasis on realism with the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine, which suits users who want rowing to feel closer to being on the water. The oak frame gives it a traditional look and a solid presence, while the water tank creates resistance that responds naturally to effort. It fits best in home gyms where space can be managed authenticity is a priority.
Resistance builds organically as stroke speed increases, with intensity adjusted by adding or removing water from the tank. That approach encourages smooth, rhythmic movement so you can ground yourself in the workout. The water system also adds a soft, consistent sound that many users find more engaging than silent resistance.
Once it’s ready to go, the machine feels sturdy and composed. The seat glides smoothly along the rail, and the cushioning helps maintain comfort during longer sessions. When not in use, the frame folds to reduce its footprint. At 27.5 kg, it’s better suited to being stored than frequently moved around.
This rower will appeal most to users who value feel and build quality over convenience features. Those looking for quick resistance changes or lighter equipment may find it less flexible. For consistent, immersive rowing at home, it strikes a satisfying balance.
Our Expert Opinion: “Water rowers tend to reward steady technique, and this model leans into that strength. It’s a solid choice for people who enjoy the rhythm of rowing and want a machine that feels substantial to use.”
Customers Are Saying: “This rower is beautifully made, and the oak frame looks premium in my home gym. It’s smooth and quiet, and the water resistance feels great for this price range.”
Who is the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine for?
- Users seeking a realistic, water-based rowing experience. When magnetic and hydraulic machines don’t feel as good as water rowing, this machine steps in with a more authentic feel.
- Home gym setups with space. The dimensions of this rower mean that you need a lot of space for it, but that means it works better for taller Canadians and those looking for a more authentic experience.
- Heavier Canadians. This rower has a higher weight limit than some of the more compact options we’ve seen.
Who should avoid the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine?
- Anyone who needs a portable rower. This rower is extremely effective and mimics the feel of real water rowing, but it’s much too heavy to move between workouts.
Instead, choose… the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine.
While the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine doesn’t have a lot of the same features as the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine, its advantage is how small and compact it is. It won’t take up half your room, and you can store it when you aren’t using it.
Features Breakdown
- Resistance Type: Water
- Frame Material: Oak
- Dimensions: 198.2 x 51.8 x 64.2 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: 6′ 10.7″
- Tracked Metrics: Time, Distance, Stroke, Calories, Watts, SPM
- Resistant Levels: Infinite
- Item Weight: 27.5 kg (Empty)
Best basic rowing machine in Canada: Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Full Motion Rowing Machine
Pros:
- Full-motion handlebars encourage a wider range of upper body movement
- 12 hydraulic resistance levels
- Compact footprint with relatively light frame for easier storage
- Simple LCD monitor tracks time and calories
Cons:
- App experience requires a separate device
The Details:
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 133 x 73 x 30 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: Unspecified
The full-motion arm design gives this Sunny Health & Fitness rower a noticeably different feel than fixed-handle models. It’s aimed at home users who want more upper-body involvement while saving space at home. Hydraulic resistance keeps movement controlled and quiet, which works well for indoor use and apartment living.
Resistance adjusts across 12 levels with a simple knob, allowing effort to change without stopping mid-session. The rotating handlebars encourage engagement through the back, shoulders, and core, while the long slide rail supports a smoother rowing rhythm. Together, these elements make the workout feel more dynamic than most compact rowers.
Setup stays manageable and doesn’t take much time. The padded seat and non-slip grips help maintain comfort, while wide foot pedals with adjustable straps keep positioning secure. At around 15 kg, the machine is light enough to move or store when space is limited.
This rower suits users who value varied arm movement and lighter equipment over realism. Anyone looking for long, powerful strokes or detailed performance tracking may want a more robust machine. For flexible, low-impact rowing at home, you can’t beat this price point.
Our Expert Opinion: “The full-motion arms give this rower a distinct training feel without turning it into a complicated piece of equipment. It’s a solid option for users who want variety and convenience in a compact format.”
Customers Are Saying: “For a full-body workout like this, the price point and fast delivery were supreme. It’s small, but that’s perfect for my apartment.”
Who is the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Full Motion Rowing Machine for?
- Those who want a wider range of upper-body workouts. Because this machine uses a different handle system than the fixed-handle systems that are available elsewhere, it’s ideal for a more upper-body-focused workout.
- Users with limited space. This rower is extremely compact and doesn’t require a lot of space for use.
- Canadians who need adjustable resistance. If you want to be able to adjust the resistance to suit your workout on the fly, this machine is perfect for you.
Who should avoid the Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Full Motion Rowing Machine?
- Rowers seeking long, water-style stroke resistance. This rower is great for more compact spaces, but it lacks an authentic rowing feel.
Instead, choose… the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine.
If you want a more authentic rowing feel, the JOROTO Water Rowing Machine is the way to go. You adjust the resistance by adding or removing water from the tank. Though this can be tedious, it’s also a lot more like real rowing than the hydraulic resistance from this machine.
Features Breakdown
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Frame Material: Alloy Steel
- Dimensions: 133 x 73 x 30 cm
- Max Weight: 158 kg
- Max Height: Unspecified
- Tracked Metrics: Time, Count, Calories Burned, Strokes Per Minute
- Resistant Levels: 12
- Item Weight: 15 kg
Frequently Asked Questions
Even with a rowing machine, you get the most out of your workout if you have proper form and technique. Some common mistakes include using only your arms to row instead of your legs and back, bending your knees too early, and holding the handles too tightly. All of these mistakes can lead to strain in your muscles, but we recommend seeking out professional fitness advice to improve your form.
A rowing machine is a good addition to a home gym, but they can allow you to overdo it a bit. Rowing machines use repetitive motion, so muscle strain is common. You’ll also need to have secure footing through each sequence to avoid slipping and straining. Consider setting the machine’s resistance to lower than you think you can handle to get a feel for it.
With proper form, you’ll be working your legs, core, and upper body as you row. This means you’ll feel the motion in about 85% of your body, especially if you are just starting out and trying to get into tip-top rowing shape.
This Post Has 5 Comments
I looked at a lot of rowing machines that take up a lot of space. I love that you highlighted some more compact options here.
Is a basic rowing machine good enough fro casual home workouts, or do I need a water-based one?
For casual home workouts, a basic home rowing machine will get the job done for sure.
Is there a learning curve to using rowing machines properly?
This depends on the machine. Some can be more complicated, but learning how to properly use a rowing machine is universal to all models. If you learn proper form and which muscles to use during the process, it will go a lot smoother!