MoveLab’s Guide: What to Look for in a Commercial Rowing Machine (Beyond Just Features)

Explore what defines a high-quality commercial rowing machine

Indoor rowing machines, also known as ergs (short for ergometers), are designed to simulate the full-body motion of rowing on water. As a result, they provide a complete cardio and strength workout and are commonly available on gym floors around the world.

But recently, their purpose is evolving. Rowing machines are now being integrated into group fitness classes, transforming it into an engaging, connected, and social workout experience. At MoveLab, we see growing demand from gyms and studios looking to adopt this model.

Whether you're a gym owner, studio manager, or running a competitive rowing club, commercial-grade rowing machines can provide a consistent indoor training experience. These machines are specifically built to withstand heavy, daily use.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created this guide that outlines the key characteristics of high-quality commercial rowing machines.

Types of Rowing Machines: What Are the Differences?

Not all rowing machines are the same. The type of resistance used in a machine greatly affects how it feels, sounds, and functions. Here's a breakdown of the three primary types of commercial rowing machines available today:

1. Air Resistance Rowers

   These machines generate resistance using a spinning flywheel with fan blades. The harder you row, the more air resistance is created, providing a dynamic, responsive feel. This type closely mimics the natural resistance of rowing on water, which is why it’s a favorite among professional rowers. However, it can be noisy.

2. Magnetic Resistance Rowers

   Instead of relying on air, magnetic rowers use magnets positioned near the flywheel to create resistance. The level of resistance is typically adjustable via a dial or digital setting. These machines are quiet, low-maintenance, and ideal for facilities that value minimal noise and smooth operation.

3. Water Resistance Rowers

   Water rowers create drag by rotating blades through a tank of water. This closely replicates the feel and rhythm of real rowing. The sound of water swooshing is often considered soothing by users. However, water rowers can be heavier and require more maintenance (e.g., tank cleaning or refilling).

The Role of Software: Connected Screens & Smart Features

The rowing experience is no longer limited to time and distance tracking on a basic monitor. Today’s leading machines are equipped with digital screens and smart connectivity that elevate the workout experience.

From real-time performance tracking and personalized metrics to community challenges, on-demand workouts, and integration with gym-wide leaderboards, software plays a growing role in how members engage with fitness equipment.

At MoveLab, we've seen firsthand how connected experiences boost motivation, retention, and brand perception. Modern commercial machines should be ready for digital upgrades or come with software included.

What to Know About Connectivity Before Choosing a Rowing Machine

For commercial settings, it’s important to ensure that the equipment is ready for digital integration. Ideally, machines should support upgrades or come with built-in software. That said, not all rowers are created equal when it comes to connectivity, so its important to check it.

In fitness, there is a bluetooth standard called FTMS and is the industry standard for exposing data. FTMS stands for Fitness Machine Service and allows fitness equipment, like rowers, to communicate performance data in real time to apps and devices. While this Bluetooth FTMS protocol is often preferred in home fitness, it may not always be practical in high-traffic commercial environments given that wireless connections can be prone to interference, disconnections, or configuration issues. In these cases, an openly accessible USB connection is a more reliable option. Equally important is a manufacturer’s willingness to publish their communication protocols, enabling seamless integration with the rowing machine.

Not All Ergs Are Equal: Understanding Measurement Accuracy

When considering a commercial rowing machine, one often-overlooked factor is measurement precision. There are multiple ways rowing machines measure performance, with the most common being flywheel speed estimation and direct strain gauge measurement. Both methods come with their own advantages and limitations.

Flywheel-based systems estimate power output based on how fast the flywheel decelerates, but the accuracy of these readings heavily depends on how well the manufacturer has modeled the physical properties of the flywheel. This means that different brands, or even different units of the same brand, can yield inconsistent results. A recent study comparing RP3 and Concept2 rowers highlighted this variability.

In contrast, strain gauge-based systems measure the actual force applied, providing more reliable and direct power data. However, regardless of the method, it's important to note that metrics like “boat speed” remain virtual outputs, as they are derived rather than measured.

For environments where performance tracking and fair comparisons matter, like group classes, testing protocols, or athlete development, the choice of measurement system becomes critical and its important to keep them in mind.

Key Consideration: Can Rowing Machines Be Stored Away?

Storage is often a deciding factor when selecting rowing machines for group classes. In interviews conducted with local gym managers near our headquarters, we found that the ability to store machines vertically or move them easily was essential. While many commercial machines are designed to remain on the cardio floor, certain models can stand upright or fold, making them ideal for multipurpose spaces.

Overlooked features when selecting a rowing machine

From our experience working with gyms and studios, here are the often-overlooked but crucial features to check when selecting a rowing machine:

• Availability of Replacement Parts: Can you easily order spare parts, or do you have to replace the entire machine?

• Digital Integration Options: Does the machine support screen upgrades or connectivity with your fitness ecosystem?

• Transparent Pricing: Does the supplier share part costs, integration protocols, and potential service fees up front?

• Support & Installation: Is the brand known for customer service? Do they offer turn-key installations?

• Commercial Warranty: Does the warranty specifically cover high-frequency commercial use?

• Financing Options: Can you lease or finance the machines to better manage upfront costs?

• Maintenance Contracts: Is there a reliable service plan to reduce downtime and keep your facility running?

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right commercial rowing machine goes beyond just picking a model with the right resistance type. You’re choosing a piece of equipment that should integrate into your gym’s daily operations, support your business model, and meet the expectations of today’s connected fitness users.