Building real muscle on a rowing machine is about more than just logging meters — it requires the right resistance profile, a stable frame that can handle high force output, and a design that lets you drive hard through the legs without the machine skipping or creaking under load. The home rower market is flooded with lightweight cardio-focused units that simply can’t deliver the progressive overload needed for hypertrophy, which is why identifying the machines that can actually support a strength-building training cycle matters far more than picking the quietest or cheapest option.
I’m Mohammad — the founder and writer behind ProteinJug. I’ve spent years analyzing fitness equipment specifications, resistance mechanisms, and frame construction to separate machines built for serious training from those that belong in a hotel gym corner. Every rower on this list has been selected based on its ability to deliver measurable resistance, structural rigidity under heavy pulls, and enough adjustability to keep you progressing long past the beginner phase.
Whether you are rehabbing an old injury, packing on leg mass, or looking for a low-impact compound movement to supplement heavy deadlifts, finding the right rowing machine for building muscle requires matching resistance type to your personal strength curve and training goals.
How To Choose The Best Rowing Machine For Building Muscle
Selecting a rowing machine for muscle gain requires a shift in focus from calorie burn to load capacity and resistance curve. Here are the key factors that determine whether a rower can support a strength-focused training program.
Resistance Type and Load Curve
Air resistance rowers are the gold standard for building muscle because they provide resistance proportional to your effort — the harder you pull, the more resistance you generate. This dynamic load curve allows for explosive concentric contractions and a wide range of intensity. Magnetic rowers, while whisper-quiet, offer a fixed resistance curve defined by magnet proximity, which often plateaus and limits peak force. Water rowers offer a middle ground with a realistic feel, but their resistance is capped by water volume and paddle size. For pure hypertrophy, air rowers like the Concept2 RowErg are unbeatable because you can always pull harder and get a higher load.
Frame Stability and Rail Length
A rower that wobbles or twists under heavy leg drive will rob you of power transfer and increase injury risk. Look for welded steel or heavy-gauge aluminum frames with wide stabilizer bases. Pay attention to rail length — a 50+ inch rail accommodates taller athletes and prevents the seat from bottoming out during full leg extension. Weight capacity ratings above 350 pounds are a good indicator of overall structural rigidity. Avoid machines with thin stamped steel or plastic-heavy construction if you plan to pull over 400 watts consistently.
Monitor and Data Feedback
To program progressive overload, you need precise, comparable data. The PM5 monitor on the Concept2 is the industry standard because it measures watts, pace, stroke rate, and distance with proven accuracy. Many budget rowers display strokes and calories but lack the consistency needed to track week-over-week strength improvements. If your goal is muscle growth, prioritize a monitor that displays power output in watts — this is the most direct metric of force production and allows you to set concrete targets for each interval session.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 RowErg (Tall Legs) | Air | Hypertrophy & performance tracking | PM5 monitor, 500 lb capacity | Amazon |
| Teeter Power10 | Magnetic (Bi-Directional) | Push-pull muscle targeting | 2-way magnetic, 7 levels | Amazon |
| WaterRower Club S4 | Water | Natural feel & aesthetics | Solid ash frame, 300 lb capacity | Amazon |
| PASYOU PR70 Air Rower | Air | Budget-friendly C2 alternative | 10-level air, 54” rail | Amazon |
| Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW522067 | Magnetic (360°) | Full-motion upper body | 51.3” rail, 360° handlebars | Amazon |
| MERACH NovaRow R50 | Air | Tall users & quiet air rowing | 110 lb peak, 10 levels | Amazon |
| pooboo H18801 | Wind/Magnetic Hybrid | Versatile dual resistance | 14 levels, 400 lb capacity | Amazon |
| WENOKER 211-51 | Water/Magnetic Hybrid | Dual-resistance customization | 32-level magnetic, 22L tank | Amazon |
| JOROTO MR280PRO | Water | Solid wood & immersive rowing | FSC oak frame, 400 lb capacity | Amazon |
| MERACH Sculls MR-RS3 | Magnetic (Sculls) | Varied grip & arm angles | 80 lb peak, 16 levels | Amazon |
| YOSUDA H-187 | Magnetic | Entry-level strength cardio | 16 levels, 400 lb capacity | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Concept2 RowErg (Tall Legs)
The Concept2 RowErg is the undisputed standard for anybody serious about using rowing to build muscle. Its air resistance system delivers a load curve that scales infinitely with effort — pull harder and the resistance rises proportionally, which directly supports progressive overload for leg drive, back pulls, and core stability. The PM5 monitor provides watt-based data that remains consistent across machines, allowing you to program intervals, track power output, and measure real strength gains session over session. The welded steel frame and 500-pound weight capacity mean it handles explosive starts and high-force strokes without a hint of flex.
The RowErg separates into two pieces for storage and rolls on caster wheels, so moving it around a home gym is straightforward despite its size. The 20-inch seat height makes getting on and off comfortable for all users, and the adjustable footrests accommodate different shoe sizes. The ergonomic handle and nickel-plated chain deliver a smooth, immediate drive feel that magnetic rowers simply cannot replicate. For pure hypertrophy programming, this is the machine against which all others are measured.
Long-term durability is where the Concept2 justifies its place at the top of the list. Parts are readily available, the machine is easy to maintain, and the 5-year frame warranty covers the investment. Many users report logging millions of meters over several years with nothing more than routine cleaning and occasional chain lubrication. If you want to build measurable, repeatable strength on a rower, this is the definitive choice.
Why it’s great
- Air resistance provides unlimited peak load for explosive leg drive and back pulls.
- PM5 monitor outputs accurate watt data for precise progressive overload programming.
- 500 lb capacity with welded steel frame ensures zero flex during high-force strokes.
- Easy to maintain with widely available parts and a 5-year frame warranty.
Good to know
- Seat can feel firm for longer sessions; some users add a third-party cushion.
- Footrests are functional but feel less premium than padded options on water rowers.
- Air noise is noticeable — about the level of a box fan at full power.
2. Teeter Power10
The Teeter Power10 reimagines the rowing motion by combining a patented elliptical path with 2-way magnetic resistance — meaning you can push the handles forward under resistance just as you pull them back. This bi-directional loading is a game-changer for muscle building because it allows you to target your chest, triceps, and anterior delts during the push phase, while the traditional pull develops lats, rhomboids, biceps, and spinal erectors. The 7 magnetic resistance levels are smooth and quiet, and the easy-access selector lets you change intensity mid-stroke without breaking rhythm.
The multi-grip handlebar offers four distinct hand positions, so you can shift the emphasis between your back, biceps, forearms, and shoulders with each stroke. The large ergonomic seat accommodates a wide range of users without any adjustment, and the premium foot straps with ratchet buckles secure your feet firmly for maximum force transfer. The Teeter Move app provides free coaching classes that range from high-intensity intervals to steady-state sessions, helping you structure workouts around hypertrophy goals.
Compact storage is a major advantage — the wheel-and-fork design eliminates the need for an extra-long slide rail, so the Power10 takes up significantly less floor space than traditional rowers. The alloy steel frame feels sturdy under load, supporting users up to 300 pounds. Assembly requires some patience (expect around 1-2 hours, ideally with two people), but the included BILT app steps make it manageable. For anyone who wants to isolate upper body pushing movements alongside the rowing stroke, the Teeter is a unique and highly effective training tool.
Why it’s great
- Bi-directional resistance works chest, triceps, and delts on the push phase.
- Multi-grip handlebar lets you target lats, biceps, and forearms separately.
- Compact footprint saves floor space without sacrificing stroke quality.
- Free Teeter Move app with structured hypertrophy-focused classes.
Good to know
- Assembly is time-consuming and easier with a second person.
- Seat pad feels firm; some users wish for thicker cushioning.
- Bi-directional motion takes a few sessions to coordinate fully.
3. WaterRower Club S4
The WaterRower Club S4 is a handcrafted machine built from solid Appalachian Ash, offering a combination of aesthetic beauty and functional resistance that closely mimics the feel of sculling on open water. The water flywheel resistance is self-regulating: as you pull harder, the water turbulence increases, providing a smooth but progressive load that is ideal for building endurance and muscular stamina. The S4 BLE monitor tracks time, distance, and stroke rate, and pairs with Bluetooth for compatible fitness apps, giving you enough data to structure interval-based hypertrophy work.
Made in the USA in Rhode Island, the Club model uses ethically sourced hardwood and a hand-stained finish that blends into a living room or home office as easily as it fits a dedicated gym. The 82-inch length and 300-pound weight capacity are sufficient for most athletes up to around 6’3″ and 270 pounds. The water sound is noticeably quieter than an air rower — many users describe it as meditative rather than distracting, making it a strong choice for early morning sessions when household noise is a concern.
Assembly is straightforward, though you will need to fill the water tank with tap water and purification tablets (included). The machine stores upright, and the transport wheels make moving it manageable. Some users report the foot straps sit closer together than expected, which can feel narrow for wider frames. The WaterRower is not the best choice for explosive max-power training due to the water resistance ceiling, but for volume-based muscular endurance and steady-state hypertrophy cycles, it is a beautifully crafted performer.
Why it’s great
- Handcrafted solid ash frame is furniture-grade and durable for decades of use.
- Water flywheel provides smooth, progressive resistance that scales with effort.
- Calming water sound is quieter than air rowers and less disruptive.
- Stores vertically to save floor space in smaller rooms.
Good to know
- Water resistance caps at a lower peak force compared to air rowers.
- Foot strap placement feels narrow for users with wider hips or frames.
- Weight capacity of 300 lb limits use for heavier athletes.
4. PASYOU PR70 Air Rower
The PASYOU PR70 delivers air resistance in a package that closely mirrors the feel of a Concept2 at a significantly more accessible investment point. Its 2.5 mm thick premium steel tubing and 54-inch extended rail provide the stability and long stroke length required for tall athletes to achieve full leg extension without the seat slamming into the end caps. The 10-level air resistance system uses a 9.92-pound flywheel that responds immediately to stroke intensity, making it suitable for interval work, power strokes, and steady-state endurance sets alike.
The backlit LCD monitor tracks time, distance, strokes, pace per 500 meters, calories, RPM, and heart rate, and includes an adjustable device holder that securely accommodates a phone or tablet. The four ultra-quiet triple rollers on the seat glide smoothly along the rail, reducing friction and noise during high-cadence sessions. Users who have spent time on a C2 report that the PR70 feels nearly identical in stroke dynamics, though the monitor calibration for distance and calories is less precise for competitive benchmarking.
Separation into two halves for storage is simple, and the built-in transport wheels let you roll the folded unit into a closet or corner. The PASYOU PR70 is a smart choice for anyone who wants the hypertrophy potential of air resistance but needs to stay within a mid-range budget. The only real trade-off is the monitor accuracy — for general strength training and interval work, it is more than adequate, but if you require competition-grade data, you may want to consider the Concept2.
Why it’s great
- 2.5 mm steel frame with 54-inch rail accommodates tall athletes for full leg drive.
- 9.92 lb air flywheel provides instant resistance feedback matching stroke power.
- Backlit monitor with adjustable device holder makes interval tracking easy.
- Separates into two sections for compact, upright storage.
Good to know
- Monitor distance and calorie data is less accurate than the PM5 on a C2.
- Foot pads are harder plastic, less comfortable for barefoot rowing.
- Phone holder can feel loose on the monitor arm for heavy vibrations.
5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW522067
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW522067 breaks from traditional rower design with a 360-degree rotating handlebar that mimics a full-motion rowing stroke, engaging the arms, shoulders, chest, and back through a wider range of motion than fixed-handle machines. The double cord handlebar design adds realism and allows for independent arm movement, which can help correct muscle imbalances and increase shoulder mobility during the pull. The stainless steel rail cover ensures smooth, quiet operation even after months of heavy use, and the 51.3-inch rail provides adequate room for users up to about 6’2″.
Padded handlebars and a molded cushioned seat are positioned at a 17.6-inch height, which reduces lower back strain when getting on and off compared to lower-profile rowers. The digital monitor tracks distance, time, stroke count, strokes per minute, and calories, and pairs with the free SunnyFit app for guided workout sessions. The magnetic resistance is adjusted via a dial under the seat, though some users note that the resistance feels inconsistent after 15-20 minutes of continuous use, which could affect longer hypertrophy sets.
The machine tilts for upright storage and comes with transport wheels for easy relocation around a room. Assembly requires two people and some careful attention to the instructions, but the pre-screwed parts speed up the process significantly. The 330-pound weight capacity is adequate for most users, and the alloy steel frame provides a stable base during moderate to high effort strokes. This rower is best suited for athletes who want a full upper body range of motion and are willing to trade some peak resistance for versatility in grip and arm angle.
Why it’s great
- 360° rotating handles target a wider range of upper body muscles than fixed bars.
- High seat position (17.6″) minimizes lower back strain during entry and exit.
- Stainless steel rail cover provides a smooth, quiet, durable gliding surface.
- Tilts vertically for compact storage with transport wheels included.
Good to know
- Magnetic resistance can feel inconsistent and may fade after 15-20 minutes.
- Sharp metal edge on the chair support bar requires careful handling during assembly.
- Requires two people for assembly, which can be inconvenient for solo users.
6. MERACH NovaRow R50
The MERACH NovaRow R50 is an air resistance rower designed to deliver a Concept2-like experience at a fraction of the cost, with a peak resistance of 110 pounds across 10 adjustable levels. The air flywheel produces a smooth, linear pull that rewards hard effort with increasing resistance — exactly what you need for leg-dominant power strokes and back-building rows. The frame is constructed from welded alloy steel and supports up to 350 pounds, with an extended track that accommodates users over 6 feet tall without compromising stroke length.
The professional performance monitor connects to the MERACH app via Bluetooth, providing detailed feedback on stroke rate, distance, time, and calories. A built-in device holder keeps your smartphone or tablet visible during guided workouts. The footplates are adjustable, allowing you to dial in proper foot position for optimal leg drive and pelvic alignment — a crucial feature for reducing injury risk during high-intensity interval training focused on power output.
The NovaRow separates into two sections for vertical storage, with folded dimensions of 32.7” L x 28.7” W x 54.3” H, making it manageable for smaller apartments. Assembly is 90% complete out of the box, with most users finishing setup in under 20 minutes. Some experienced rowers note that the top resistance level may feel insufficient after several months of consistent max-effort pulls, but for most home lifters moving from a magnetic or hydraulic rower, the load curve will be a significant upgrade for strength work.
Why it’s great
- 110 lb peak air resistance supports explosive leg drive and progressive overload.
- Adjustable footplates promote proper pelvic alignment for safe high-force strokes.
- 90% pre-assembled out of the box — under 20 minutes to full setup.
- Bluetooth connectivity with MERACH app for structured interval programming.
Good to know
- Top resistance level may feel insufficient for advanced athletes after months of use.
- Monitor scrolls metrics every 5 seconds; some users find the display distracting.
- Footrest material is stiffer than preferred for barefoot rowing sessions.
7. pooboo H18801
The pooboo H18801 blends wind and magnetic resistance into a single unit, offering the best of both worlds: the dynamic, effort-based load of air resistance combined with the quiet, adjustable fine-tuning of magnetic drag. The 14 resistance levels let you dial in the exact tension for a given training block, whether you are focused on low-rep power strokes or higher-volume muscular endurance intervals. The 360-degree rotating handlebar allows a full range of motion, engaging the upper body differently on every pull to prevent adaptation and hit more muscle fibers across the back, shoulders, and arms.
The LCD display tracks nine data metrics including time, average pace per 500 strokes, power during motion, calories, and distance, and it connects to the KINOMAP app via Bluetooth for interactive training routes. The elongated double rail system measures 38 inches of slide length with a 15-inch seat height, and the alloy steel frame supports up to 400 pounds, accommodating users up to 6 feet 6 inches. The seat is ergonomically contoured, and the adjustable footrests keep your feet planted securely during maximal pulls.
Storage is straightforward — the machine folds vertically and rolls on built-in wheels, making it easy to tuck into a closet or corner between sessions. Assembly is reported to take around 20 minutes for most users, with 90% of the frame pre-assembled. A few users noted a discrepancy between the listed 400-pound weight capacity and the manual stating a lower limit of 325-345 pounds, so heavier athletes should confirm specifications before purchase. Overall, the pooboo H18801 is a versatile mid-range option that provides the resistance diversity needed for a well-rounded strength program.
Why it’s great
- Wind and magnetic hybrid gives you both dynamic and adjustable resistance options.
- 14 levels of tension allow precise loading for hypertrophy or endurance work.
- 360° rotating handlebar engages a wider range of upper body muscle groups.
- Long double rails and 400 lb capacity fit tall and heavier athletes.
Good to know
- Listed 400 lb capacity conflicts with manual specification of 325-345 lb — verify your unit.
- Small footprint when upright, but horizontal footprint during use is comparable to full-size rowers.
- KINOMAP app integration is functional but not as refined as dedicated first-party apps.
8. WENOKER 211-51
The WENOKER 211-51 is a water-magnetic hybrid rower that combines a 22-liter water tank for smooth, realistic fluid resistance with a 32-level intelligent magnetic system for precise, incremental load adjustments. This dual-resistance approach gives you an incredibly broad range of tension — from light recovery paddling to heavy, grinding pulls that challenge the posterior chain. The LCD monitor displays heart rate, time, distance, speed, calories, stroke count, and more, and the built-in Bluetooth connects to the Kinomap app for interactive rowing routes that keep you engaged during long endurance sets.
The solid wood frame (not particleboard) supports up to 400 pounds and provides a premium, furniture-grade appearance that fits well in a living space. The paddle design in the water tank creates resistance that builds as stroke speed increases, closely mimicking the feel of real on-water rowing. The 3D-shaped ergonomic seat is comfortable for extended sessions, and the non-slip adjustable pedals accommodate different foot sizes while keeping your feet secure during the drive phase. The extra-large tank is made of scratch-resistant material and features aerospace-grade sealing to prevent leaks even when stored upright.
Assembly takes about 45 minutes, and the machine includes bottom wheels for easy movement around the home. Some users with narrower builds find the rails cause their calves to touch the sides during the stroke, though raised foot pads can partially mitigate this. The WENOKER 211-51 is a strong choice for athletes who appreciate the feel of water resistance but want the ability to fine-tune load with magnetic precision, giving them control over both the quality and intensity of each stroke for targeted muscle development.
Why it’s great
- Water and magnetic hybrid provides a wide tension range from smooth to grinding heavy.
- Solid wood frame holds up to 400 lb and looks like premium furniture.
- 32-level magnetic adjustment lets you dial in exact load for hypertrophy phases.
- Large 22L tank with aerospace sealing prevents leaks in vertical storage.
Good to know
- Rails are narrow; some users with wider frames find their calves touch the sides.
- Water tank volume is smaller than the classic WaterRower, capping top-end resistance.
- Monitor data can be confusing to cycle through without referencing the manual.
9. JOROTO MR280PRO
The JOROTO MR280PRO is a water resistance rower built from FSC-certified solid oak, giving it a natural, warm aesthetic that stands apart from steel-framed machines. The water tank uses an advanced leak-proof system that allows the machine to be stored vertically without dripping, and the resistance level changes dynamically with your rowing speed — accelerate through the stroke and the water resistance builds smoothly, engaging the legs, back, and arms through a realistic drag curve. The ergonomic seat is molded for comfort, and the extended rail design accommodates users with a leg length of up to 39 inches.
The Bluetooth-enabled monitor connects to the JOROTO App (lifetime free access) for guided rowing workouts, performance tracking, and virtual rowing routes through lakes and rivers. The app provides structure for your training, whether you are doing steady-state volume or interval-based power sets. The 180-degree foldable design allows the machine to be stored upright, saving up to 60% of floor space compared to a fully extended rower. Assembly is minimal — the rower arrives 90% pre-assembled, with only the seat and monitor requiring installation.
Footrest placement has been noted by some users as being close together, which can feel cramped for larger individuals. Additionally, because water resistance peaks at the maximum speed you can generate, athletes who require very heavy loading for progressive overload may find the top end of the tank insufficient compared to an air rower. That said, for volume-based hypertrophy blocks and enjoyable daily sessions that feel more like a sport than a chore, the JOROTO MR280PRO is an excellent water rower with genuinely appealing craftsmanship.
Why it’s great
- Solid FSC-certified oak frame provides a premium, furniture-quality appearance.
- Water resistance scales smoothly with effort, ideal for volume-based hypertrophy work.
- 180° foldable design saves up to 60% floor space when stored upright.
- Lifetime free JOROTO app access with guided sessions and virtual rowing routes.
Good to know
- Footrests sit close together, which may be uncomfortable for users with wider hips.
- Peak water resistance is lower than air rowers, limiting maximum overload potential.
- Wood frame requires dry storage conditions to prevent warping over time.
10. MERACH Sculls MR-RS3
The MERACH Sculls MR-RS3 replicates the feel of real sculling with its 120-degree outward arm motion, allowing for full chest expansion and a wider lat activation compared to standard rowers with a fixed handlebar. This sculls-style design supports one-arm rows, alternating strokes, and synchronized dual-arm pulls, giving you significantly more exercise variety from a single machine. The magnetic resistance system delivers up to 80 pounds of peak resistance across 16 levels, which is enough for challenging strength work for most home gym users, especially when performing unilateral strokes to address imbalances.
The performance monitor pairs via Bluetooth to the MERACH App, which includes over 1,000 interactive courses and games, plus 6 months of free premium membership. The app’s champion-coach tutorials can help you refine your rowing technique for maximum muscle recruitment. The alloy steel frame and 350-pound weight capacity provide a stable platform, and the machine’s compact 60-inch length folds up smaller than full-length rowers, making it easier to store in tight spaces. Assembly is 85% pre-completed with a typical setup time of around 20 minutes.
Some users report that the top resistance level feels easier than expected for advanced lifters, meaning this rower is best suited for the intermediate athlete who wants variety over raw max effort. The non-backlit screen can be hard to read in bright rooms, and the unit lacks watt-based power tracking. However, for someone recovering from an injury or looking to build muscular balance through varied stroke angles, the MERACH Sculls MR-RS3 offers a training stimulus that no fixed-handle rower can match.
Why it’s great
- 120° outward arm motion expands the chest and activates lats differently than fixed handles.
- Supports one-arm and alternating strokes for fixing muscle imbalances.
- 16 magnetic levels provide up to 80 lb of resistance for intermediate strength work.
- MERACH App with 1,000+ interactive courses adds variety to training.
Good to know
- Top resistance may feel too easy for experienced strength athletes.
- Non-backlit screen is difficult to see in bright room lighting.
- No watt-based power measurement — data tracking is more basic than air rowers.
11. YOSUDA H-187
The YOSUDA H-187 is a magnetic resistance rower designed for quiet, smooth operation with 16 levels of tension provided by high-quality neodymium magnets and a 16-pound flywheel. While magnetic rowers do not offer the same dynamic load curve as air or water resistance, the 16 levels give you enough range to perform strength-oriented intervals at a consistent, predictable load. The 53-inch rail and 4mm thick commercial steel frame support up to 400 pounds, making this one of the most stable budget-friendly options available. The aluminum slide rail ensures glide smoothness and corrosion resistance over time.
The LCD monitor displays nine data points including stroke count, distance, time, and calories, with a 180-degree adjustable screen that tilts to reduce glare. The included bracket supports tablets up to 9.25 inches, and the water bottle holder keeps hydration within reach. The machine arrives 90% pre-assembled, with most users finishing setup in about 20 minutes. The foldable design with transport wheels makes it easy to store in a closet or corner when not in use.
Several users report that the seat padding is minimal and tends to cause forward slipping during longer sessions, which can affect stroke form and comfort. Some also noted a clicking noise at the rail joint after extended use, which was often resolved with a small shim or foam pad. The YOSUDA is not a replacement for an air rower when hypertrophy is the primary goal, but for general fitness, light strength work, and users on a tight budget who still want a 400-pound capacity frame, it represents the best entry-level option in this list.
Why it’s great
- 16-level magnetic resistance with 16 lb neodymium flywheel provides consistent loading.
- 4mm thick commercial steel frame and 400 lb capacity offer exceptional stability.
- 90% pre-assembled with 20-minute setup — ideal for beginners.
- Foldable design with wheels for easy storage in small spaces.
Good to know
- Seat padding is minimal and may cause forward slipping on long sessions.
- Clicking noise at rail joint can develop after months of use; requires DIY shim fix.
- Magnetic resistance plateaus — cannot generate the peak load needed for advanced hypertrophy.
FAQ
Can a rowing machine actually build noticeable muscle mass?
How heavy should the resistance feel for strength training on a rower?
Is a magnetic rowing machine enough for muscle growth?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the rowing machine for building muscle winner is the Concept2 RowErg because its air resistance system scales infinitely with effort, the PM5 monitor gives you accurate watt data for progressive overload, and the welded steel frame handles the highest force outputs without compromise. If you want bi-directional resistance that targets the upper chest and triceps on the push phase in addition to the standard back-and-arms pull, grab the Teeter Power10. And for a beautifully crafted water rower that blends home aesthetics with smooth, endurance-focused resistance, nothing beats the WaterRower Club S4.