--- title: Best Rowing Machine in 2021 description: There are many different rowing machines that will allow you to gain these benefits, but why the Hydrow? We consider it the best rowing machine in 2021. image: https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hubfs/hydrow1.jpg --- - [844.574.0270](tel:844.574.0270) - [Contact](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/contact-us) - [About](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/about-us) - [Service](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/service) - [HOME EQUIPMENT](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net) - [COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial) ![Toggle Menu](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Push_pedel_pull_Dec2020/images/trigger.png "Toggle Menu") [![Push Pedal Pull](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Push_pedel_pull_Dec2020/images/head-logo.png "Push Pedal Pull")](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/) ### [Find a Store](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/locations/) GO - [My Account](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/) - [Create an Account](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/create/) - [Sign In](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/login/referer/aHR0cHM6Ly9lMjIxYWZjNjRiLm54Y2xpLm5ldC9jb21tZXJjaWFsLw%2C%2C/) - [Menu](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/best-rowing-machine-in-2021#main-Menucontent) - [Account](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/best-rowing-machine-in-2021#main-Accountcontent) - [Treadmills](https://pushpedalpull.com/treadmills.html) - [Ellipticals](https://pushpedalpull.com/ellipticals.html) - [Strength](https://pushpedalpull.com/strength.html) - [Free Weights](https://pushpedalpull.com/free-weights.html) - [Exercise Bikes](https://pushpedalpull.com/exercise-bikes.html) - [Seated Steppers](https://pushpedalpull.com/steppers-climbers.html) - [Climbers](https://pushpedalpull.com/climbers.html) - [Rowers](https://pushpedalpull.com/rowing-machines.html) - [Accessories](https://pushpedalpull.com/accessories.html) - [Pre-Owned](https://pushpedalpull.com/pre-owned.html) - [Sale](https://pushpedalpull.com/p3-black-friday.html) - [My Account](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/) - [Create an Account](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/create/) - [Sign In](https://e221afc64b.nxcli.net/commercial/customer/account/login/referer/aHR0cHM6Ly9lMjIxYWZjNjRiLm54Y2xpLm5ldC9jb21tZXJjaWFsLw%2C%2C/) ![](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hubfs/hydrow1.jpg) # Best Rowing Machine in 2021 Published by [Adam Poehlmann](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/author/adam-poehlmann) on Jan 1, 2021, 11:35:13 AM The rowing machine is hands down my favorite piece of cardio equipment for a few different reasons, which I will outline in this blog along with my recommendation for the best rowing machine in 2021. Whenever I’m working with a client and I feel that it is an appropriate time to implement cardio into their routine, I almost always have them do some form of HIIT training. I give them free reign to select a piece of equipment of their choosing, but whenever they feel like they can’t decide, I point them to the rowing machine.   BENEFIT #1: MUSCLES WORKED Unlike any other piece of cardio equipment, the rowing machine works nine (some would argue even more) muscle groups of the body. If you hop on a bike or a treadmill, you get to use your legs. If you hop on the elliptical, you get to use your arms a bit more, but nothing compared to the rowing machine.   BENEFIT #2: POSTERIOR CHAIN A few of the muscles worked when rowing are on the back side of your body. In a world where we are constantly typing, texting, and looking at a screen, we neglect the major movers in the backside of our body like our glutes, hamstrings, erectors, rhomboids, and lats. Incorporating the rowing machine can help you give some time and attention to the important muscles of your body that you likely neglect.   BENEFIT #3: POWER Rowing properly is no joke. It is a very technical movement, and requires lots of practice to execute properly. Just like any other movement, anyone can begin and perform the movement incorrectly. But to row well it requires serious technique, involving a lot of your lower half. Your lower body needs to be able to apply a lot of force into the footplate. The skill you gain in learning how to apply that force with your lower body can translate into other movements, such as deadlifts.   There are many different rowing machines that will allow you to gain these benefits, but why the [Hydrow](https://pushpedalpull.com/hydrow-indoor-rower.html)? We consider it one of the best rowing machines in 2021.  [![Best Rowing Machine in 2021](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hs-fs/hubfs/hydrow2.jpg?width=300&name=hydrow2.jpg)](https://pushpedalpull.com/hydrow-indoor-rower.html) FEATURE #1: DRAG As one of the best rowing machines in 2021, the [Hydrow](https://pushpedalpull.com/hydrow-indoor-rower.html) features a drag mechanism that makes you feel like you’re rowing in the water. Many overlook this feature, but it makes a massive difference. The two popular rowing machines that I have used in my years as a bootcamp instructor are fan rowing machines and water rowing machines. The rowing machines that give the closest feel to the water are best as they are smooth and don’t create slack in the rope as you row.   FEATURE #2: WORKOUTS First and foremost, it is very important that you learn the fundamentals of exercise and fitness so you can apply those principles in your life. When you know how to plan out your exercise programs, you will be able to reach any goal you have down the road and maintain those results for years to come. As a personal trainer I stand by that. It is extremely important to learn the fundamentals yourself. Though learning the ins and outs of exercise is important, you won’t know everything at first. While you’re learning, it can be very beneficial to have someone take you through a workout. The [Hydrow](https://pushpedalpull.com/hydrow-indoor-rower.html) features a digital community workout experience that challenges you and helps you improve. The rowing machine in and of itself is a special piece of equipment, but the [Hydrow](https://pushpedalpull.com/hydrow-indoor-rower.html) takes it to a whole new level making it one of the best rowing machines in 2021.   ABOUT THE AUTHOR Adam is a fitness professional, baseball fan, and cookie fanatic based in Fort Collins, Colorado. After hanging up the cleats, he found a strong interest in the human body and how it performs. Since then, Adam has been transforming lives through fitness in a fun and encouraging atmosphere. As an ACE CPT and Fitness Nutrition Specialist, he is constantly moved to help people improve in all walks of life. ### Subscribe Here! ### Topics ### Top Posts Tags: [Fitness Machine](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/topic/fitness-machine), [Exercise Machine](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/topic/exercise-machine), [Rowing Machine](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/topic/rowing-machine) [Back to Blog](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com) ## Related Articles ## [Proper Rowing Maching Technique](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/proper-rowing-maching-technique) Proper Rowing Machine Technique A rowing machine is an excellent addition to any home gym. As a... [Read More](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/proper-rowing-maching-technique) ## [Best Rowing Machines of 2016](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/best-rowing-machines-of-2016) Best Rowing Machines of 2016 The rowing machine is growing in popularity. Considered low-impact on... [Read More](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/best-rowing-machines-of-2016) ## [How to Use a Rowing Machine](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/how-to-use-a-rowing-machine) How to Use a Rowing Machine Most people see the rowing machine in the gym and run the other way. We... [Read More](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/how-to-use-a-rowing-machine) [![Push-pedal-pull](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Push_pedel_pull_Dec2020/images/footer-logo.png?height=116&name=footer-logo.png "Push-pedal-pull")](https://pushpedalpull.com/) -  2306 W 41st St. Sioux Falls, SD 57105 -   [844.574.0270](tel:8005888230) -   [Find a Store](https://pushpedalpull.com/locations/) - - - - - ###### Products - [Treadmills](https://pushpedalpull.com/treadmills.html/) - [Ellipticals](https://pushpedalpull.com/ellipticals.html) - [Strength](https://pushpedalpull.com/strength.html) - [Free Weights](https://pushpedalpull.com/free-weights.html) - [Exercise Bikes](https://pushpedalpull.com/exercise-bikes.html) - [Seated Steppers](https://pushpedalpull.com/steppers-climbers.html/) - [Climbers](https://pushpedalpull.com/climbers.html/) - [Rowers](https://pushpedalpull.com/rowing-machines.html/) - [Accessories](https://pushpedalpull.com/accessories.html/) ###### Customer Service - [Contact Us](https://pushpedalpull.com/contact-us) - [Product Protection Plan](https://pushpedalpull.com/extended-service) - [Shipping and Returns](https://pushpedalpull.com/shipping-returns) - [Financing](https://pushpedalpull.com/generic_financing) - [Trade-ins](https://pushpedalpull.com/trade-ins) - [Room Design & Planning](https://pushpedalpull.com/plan-your-space) - [Testimonials](https://pushpedalpull.com/testimonials) - [Careers](https://pushpedalpull.com/careers) - [Blog](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/) ###### JOIN THE INSIDERS CLUB Join today for exclusive access to news, tips and special offers © Copyright 2026 Push Pedal Pull - [Policies](https://pushpedalpull.com/terms-conditions) - ![Precor](https://blog.pushpedalpull.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Push_pedel_pull_Dec2020/images/precor.png) ![](https://insight.adsrvr.org/track/evnt/?adv=ce63md8&ct=0:y6wkqamc&fmt=3)