Exercise rowing is considered one of the best total body workouts. It engages all of the major muscle groups, along with your cardio-vascular system. Today’s exercise rowing machines allow you to reap the benefits of rowing without leaving dry land.

When it comes to training rower equipment one size does not fit all. Evaluate the users' fitness levels and goals to determine which features your exercise rowing machine will need. Before investing in exercise rowing equipment you should:

1. Evaluate the four types of rowing machines — magnetic, air, hydraulic and water — to determine which model is best suited to your needs.

2. Consider buying a used workout rower.

3. Compare fitness rowing machines to get the best deal.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get familiar with the different fitness rowing machines and their features

Consider price, ease of use and storability when purchasing workout rower equipment for your home or company.

I recommend: Hydraulic training rowers are reasonably priced and easy to store, but don't operate as smoothly and aren't as durable as their counterparts. Air rowers come with a mid-range price tag and offer greater resistance but are loud. A water rower machine tends to cost more, better simulates the sensation of water and operates more smoothly, while a magnetic rowing machine is easy to store and virtually maintenance free.

Do your homework before deciding on an exercise rower

Review the pros and cons of various rowing machines so you can make an informed decision.

I recommend: Review the guide to indoor rowing machines at Buzzle.com.
Sites, such as Exercise Equipment Expert, list rowing machines by manufacturer and model. Men's Total Fitness offers reviews of the most popular fitness rowing machines and features a "Rowing Machine Buyer's Guide." Visit the Rowing Machine Advisor for a copy of Rowing Machine Ratings.

Search online for workout rower equipment

When cost is a factor look for good deals on new and used training rowing machines. If purchasing a used fitness rower machine find out what, if any repairs were made or parts replaced and the age of the rowing equipment.

I recommend: BigFitness.com and the Rowing Machine Superstore are good sources for a used training rower machine. These sites also feature a "clearance" section. NexTag feature various models and vendors to compare price and Fitness Blowout is a popular choice for purchasing new rowing equipment.

Include rowing machines in your gym equipment's inventory

Rowing machines - like swimming - tone muscles, burn off calories and elevate your heart rate making them a popular choice in health clubs.

I recommend: If you are purchasing a rowing machine for a fitness or health center, consider models such as the Omega Fitness Cap Barbell Magnetic Rower, the Water Rower Natural Studio Rowing Machine or the Vfit HR2 Hermes Hydraulic Rowing Machine.

Buy a 'hideaway' training rower machine for an office gym

Portable training rower equipment is an economical and practical addition to your employees' exercise program.

I recommend: An exercise rower that collapses for easy storage is recommended for a business's fitness room. Models, such as the BodyCraft VR100 Rower or the Stamina 12-15 Orbital Rower, generally are less than 6 ft. long and fold up when not being used.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Select a quality built workout rower machine that will hold up under extensive use, compare warranties and learn about preventive maintenance recommendations.