# Rowing Machines vs Exercise Bikes: What You Need to Know

> This article compares rowing machines and exercise bikes, two popular home gym options, covering their features, benefits, downsides, and key differences to help choose the right one.

- **Published:** 2022-09-29
- **Updated:** 2023-04-05
- **Author:** Aviron
- **Category:** Rowing 101

## What is a Rowing Machine?

A rowing machine simulates rowing a boat, exercising arms, legs, and core. Users sit on a seat with a resistance mechanism attached to a handlebar. Resistance levels can be adjusted for beginners or experienced users.

## What is an Exercise Bike?

An exercise bike is low-impact cardio equipment that raises heart rate. Users sit and pedal, with some models including handlebars for upper body work. Resistance is adjustable.

## Perks of Rowing Machines

Rowing works upper and lower body simultaneously for efficient workouts. It is low-impact, easy on joints, and can burn up to twice as many calories as running. Rowing machines store easily.

## Perks of Exercise Bikes

Exercise bikes are inexpensive, beginner-friendly, and low-impact. They support versatile workouts including interval training, which burns more calories in less time. They store easily.

## Downsides of Rowing Machines

Repetitive motion can strain lower back, wrists, and hands. Finding rhythm takes time; start slow. Some models are expensive.

## Downsides of Exercise Bikes

Workouts can be boring and lead to low motivation. High resistance or standing can strain knees and hips.

## Weight Loss Comparison

Both aid weight loss through aerobic and resistance training. Rowing provides a slight edge as a full-body workout using arms, shoulders, and back more than pedaling.

## Safety and Injury Concerns

Proper form is essential for both to avoid injury. Exercise bikes have higher injury risk due to height and wobbling compared to rowers.

## Muscles Targeted

**Exercise Bike:**
- Calves
- Hamstrings
- Quadriceps
- Back
- Core
- Glutes
- Upper body with handles or weights

**Rowing Machine:**
- Quadriceps
- Hamstrings
- Back
- Abdominals
- Arms
- Shoulders
- Calves

Rowing activates nine muscle groups and 85% of the body's musculature.

## Space Needed

Exercise bikes require 7-10 square feet (about 4 ft long x 2 ft wide). Rowing machines need about 9 ft x 4 ft, with less height required.

## Cost

Exercise bikes range from $249 to $2200, averaging $700. Rowing machines range from $100 to $2500, averaging $360.

## Verdict

Both are affordable, low-impact, and space-efficient. Rowing machines have a slight edge for full-body workout, lower injury risk, and affordability.

## Related Products

- [Strong Series Rower](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/strong-series-rower.md)
- [Strong GO Rower](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/strong-go-rower.md)
- [Fit Bike](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/aviron-fit-bike.md)

## Related Articles

- [Rowing Machine vs Treadmills](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-treadmills.md): Comparison of rowing and treadmill workouts.
- [Rowing Machine vs Elliptical](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-vs-elliptical.md): Pros and cons for home gym cardio.
- [Magnetic vs Air Rowers](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/magnetic-vs-air-rowers.md): Differences between rower types.
- [Rowing Machine Workouts](https://www.avironactive.com/rowing-101/rowing-machine-workouts.md): Benefits and workout ideas.

## Purchase

For purchasing, visit the live store:
- [Shop Rowers](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/)
- [Shop Bikes](https://www.avironactive.com/shop/)

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