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This article is a review of the best rowing machine for tall persons.
As a personal trainer, I have met many clients who are more than 1 foot taller than me. I am 5.6 feet tall.
For me, any regular rowing machine fits. But when you have long legs and long arms, it can be a challenge to find a rowing machine for your home gym.
But guess what? The rowing community is actually dominated by people who tower over their peers.
So if you are tall and have been looking for the best rowing machine for tall people, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, I will review 7 rowing machines for tall people and help you find the perfect fit.
Table of Contents
- How do you know if a rowing machine is suitable for a tall person?
- Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons
- 7 Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons
- What To Look For In The Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons?
- Which rowing machine is best for a tall person?
- FAQs about the best rowing machine for a tall person
- What to do next?
How do you know if a rowing machine is suitable for a tall person?
Recommended User Height
When looking for a rower as a tall person, the first thing you need to consider is the user height capacity. Most rowers provide a recommended user height on their product description, allowing you to see if it suits your height.
Finding a rower that fits your height is important, as it allows you to use the rowing machine comfortably.
The average height for American men is 5 feet and 9 inches [1]. In contrast, the average for women is 5 feet and 4 inches [2]. So a person may be considered tall if they are around 2-3 inches taller than average [3].
Most rowers I recommend have a maximum user height recommendation of around 6 feet and 4 inches to 6 feet and 9 inches.
So, if you’re on the taller side of the spectrum, one of these rowers will suit you.
Inseam Length
If the manufacturers did not specify a user height recommendation, you could also check if the rower suits you using the inseam length.
For rowers, the inseam length is the distance between your heels and the middle of the seat of the rower when your legs are fully extended [4].
You might also see the slide rail length information when looking at the specifications of a rowing machine. Slide rail length is different from inseam length.
The inseam length is the usable length of the slide rail. While the slide rail length is the entire length of the rail, including the parts connected to the flywheel and the foot supports.
Inseam length is a better basis, because it actually gives you the usable length. It means you can fully extend your legs if the inseam length fits you.
On estimate, here is the corresponding inseam length by height for tall men and women.
Men
| Height | Inseam Length |
| 5’ 10.8” to 6’ 0.8” (180-185 cm) | 32.28-33.46 in (82-85 cm) |
| 5’11” to 6’ 1” (181-186 cm) | 32.67-33.86 in (83-86 cm) |
| 5’ 11.7” to 6’ 1.7” (182-187 cm) | 33.07-34.25 in (84-87 cm) |
| 6’ to 6’ 2” (183-188 cm) | 33.46-34.65 in (85-88 cm) |
| 6’ 1” to 6’ 5” (186-196 cm) | 33.86-35.43 in (86-90 cm) |
Women
| Height | Inseam Length |
| 5’ 8” to 5’ 8.9” (173-175 cm) | 31.89-32.68 in (81-83 cm) |
| 5’ 8.5” to 5’ 9” (174-176 cm) | 32.28-33.46 in (82-85 cm) |
| 5’ 8.9” to 5’ 9.6” (175-177 cm) | 32.68-in (83-86 cm) |
| 5’ 9.6” to 5’ 10” (177-179 cm) | 33.07-34.25 in (84-87 cm) |
| 5’10” to 5’11.6” (178-182 cm) | 33.46-34.65 in (85-88 cm) |
This is based on clothing sizes, not rowers, but should give you a rough idea of what to look for. Remember that people of the same height can have different inseam lengths.
The rowers I added on this list have an inseam length of 38 inches and longer. So there should be a rowing machine that can accommodate your height.
Top Pick
Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons
Niceday Rowing Machine
Max user height: 6 feet and 9 inches.
16 levels of resistance
350-pound weight capacity
The best rowing machine for a tall person, in my opinion, is the Niceday Rowing Machine. This rower can accommodate a user height of up to 6 feet and 9 inches.
It offers up to 16 levels of resistance and has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. So this rower can also cater to heavy people.
To know more about this rower or explore more options, keep reading below.
7 Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons
By Recommended User Height
Niceday Rowing Machine
| Features | Niceday Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 77.56 in (197 cm) Width: 21.85 in (55.50 cm) Height: 30.12 in (76.50 cm) |
| Maximum User Height | 6 ft and 9 in (205.74 cm) |
| Monitor | LCD Monitor |
| Product Weight | 76 lbs (34.47 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 350 lbs (158.76 kg) |
| Resistance | 16 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Magnetic |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Warranty | Free Replacement Part For Lifetime |
| Additional Features | Device Holder Anti-Slip Big Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
Niceday recommends a maximum user height of 6 feet and 9 inches for this rowing machine. So this machine is suitable for taller people.
The Niceday rowing machine uses magnetic resistance, which is one of the quietest resistance mechanisms for rowers. It offers 16 resistance levels and comes with a digital monitor to monitor your workout data.
According to Niceday, the resistance levels correspond to the following routines:
- Resistance Level 1-4: Daily Exercise
- Resistance Level 5-8: Sweating and Relaxing
- Resistance Level 9-12: Weight Loss and Fat-burning
- Resistance Level 13-16: Strength Training
So this rower can help you perform several workout routines depending on your goal.
The slide rails use wear-resistant aluminum oxide material, which will not scratch even when used regularly. And the rowing belt is twice as thick as a standard belt to ensure your safety and the long life of the machine.
The pedal size is big and prevents slipping. It can accommodate shoe sizes up to 13. The weight capacity is 350 pounds and it is foldable, which saves 50% of storage space.
Merach Rowing Machine
| Features | Merach Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 65 in (165.1 cm) Width: 19.3 in (49.02 cm) Height: 24.8 in (63 cm) |
| Maximum User Height | 6 ft and 7 in (200.66 cm) |
| Monitor | None |
| Power Requirement | 2 AAA batteries |
| Product Weight | 57.01 lbs (25.86 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 350 lbs (158.76 kg) |
| Resistance | 16 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Magnetic |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
| Additional Features | Free Fitness Courses Compatible with Merach and Kinomap App Device Holder Non-slip Pedals and Straps |
Merach recommends a maximum user height of 6 feet and 7 inches. So if you are taller than this, then Niceday might be a better fit.
This rowing machine uses magnets for resistance, which is quiet to use and is great for home gyms. It offers up to 16 levels of resistance adjustments to suit all fitness levels.
This Merach rowing machine does not have a digital monitor, but you can use the free Merach App to track your workout data. Apart from workout data, you can also access courses and programmed exercises on the Merach App.
If you prefer Kinomap as your fitness application, this rower is compatible with it.
This rowing machine has a weight capacity of 350 pounds.
Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine
| Features | Yosuda Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 46.5 in (118.11 cm) Width: 27 in (68.58 cm) Height: 8.25 in (20.96 cm) |
| Maximum User Height | 6 ft and 6 in (198.12 cm) |
| Monitor | LCD Monitor |
| Product Weight | 69.51 lbs (31.53 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 350 lbs (158.76 kg) |
| Resistance | 8 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Magnetic |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Warranty | Not Specified |
| Additional Features | Transportation Wheels Device Holder Non-Slip Foot Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
With its 49.2-inch slide rail length, the tallest height Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine can accommodate is 6 feet and 6 inches.
This rowing machine offers up to 8 resistance levels. And these resistances correspond to the following routine:
- Level 1-3: Activation Exercise
- Level 4-6: Aerobic Exercise
- Level 7-8: Burst Training
The large LCD monitor tracks your rowing distance, time, count, total count, and calorie data. The tablet holder holds your device to help you watch shows, listen to music, or use fitness apps.
It comes with a large non-slip pedal with straps to prevent slippage. And the ergonomic seat provides a comfortable rowing experience.
Since this rower controls sound at 30 decibels, you can use it without disturbing others.
Joroto Water Rowing Machine
| Features | Joroto Water Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 70.9 in (180.09 cm) Width: 17.5 in (44.45 cm) Height: 12.3 in (31.24 cm) |
| Maximum User Height | 6 ft and 4 in (193.04 cm) |
| Monitor | LCD Monitor |
| Product Weight | 50.71 lbs (23 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 330 lbs (149.69 kg) |
| Resistance | 6 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Water |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Oak Wood |
| Warranty | 1 Year Free Replacement Parts |
| Additional Features | Non-Slip Foot Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
If you prefer to use a water rower, the Joroto Water Rowing Machine can accommodate a user height of up to 6 feet and 4 inches.
Water rowers are noisier than magnetic rowers, but they provide a different rowing experience. Water rowers simulate an actual rowing experience, and the sound they produce is meditative.
This rowing machine uses oak wood for its frame, which looks elegant and fits into a home’s aesthetic. Although it uses wood, this rower is still durable, as it can hold a weight of up to 350 pounds.
It offers up to 6 levels of water resistance with the help of 12 enlarged blades. You can also add or drain water to adjust the resistance.
Joroto water rower is compatible with the Kinomap and other fitness apps on your phone. Additionally, it is foldable to save space.
Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine
| Features | Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 88.5 in (224.79 cm) Width: 21.5 in (54.61 cm) Height: 21.5 in (54.61 cm) |
| Maximum User Height | 6 ft and 4 in (193.04 cm) |
| Monitor | LCD Monitor |
| Product Weight | 63.56 lbs (28.83 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 250 lbs (113.40 kg) |
| Resistance | 14 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Magnetic |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited |
| Additional Features | Non-Slip Foot Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine can accommodate users up to 6 feet and 4 inches in height, thanks to its 48-inch slide rail length. This rower also fits short people of 4 feet and 9 inches in height.
It offers 14 levels of magnetic resistance and has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. The LCD monitor of this rowing machine displays your distance, time, total count, calories burned, strokes per minute, and scan.
The patent foot padding allows you to perform additional exercises. You can step on it and use the rowing handle like a resistance band or cable machine.
If you purchase this rower, you’ll get a free 30-day MyCloudFitness premium membership for fitness classes and guided workouts.
By Inseam Length
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
| Features | Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 89 in (226.06 cm) Width: 18.9 in (48 cm) Height: 23.6 in (59.94 cm) |
| Inseam Length | 46.5 in (118.11 cm) |
| Monitor | Digital Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 2 AAA batteries |
| Product Weight | 60.9 lbs (27.62 kg) |
| Maximum User Weight | 250 lbs (113.40 kg) |
| Resistance | Magnetic |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Storage | Foldable |
| Warranty | 3 Year Structural Frame 180 Days Other Parts And Components |
| Additional Features | Sunny Fit App Transportation Wheels Device Holder Non-Slip Foot Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine has an inseam length of 46.5 inches, thanks to its 48-inch slide rails. The rower’s inseam length is much longer than the inseam length listed in the table I added.
An inseam length of 33.86 to 35.43 inches fits a man of up to 6 feet and 5 inches in height. So this rower can definitely fit a tall person.
This rowing machine has 8 levels of magnetic resistance. And since it uses magnets for resistance, it is quiet when used. It also comes with a non-slip pedal with an adjustable strap to prevent slippage.
However, if you are a heavy person, this rower might not suit you. It has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, which is lower than other rowers.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
| Features | Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine |
| Dimensions | Length: 96 in (244 cm) Width: 24 in (61 cm) Height: 14 in (36 cm) for standard legs 20 in (51 cm) for tall legs |
| Inseam Length | 38 in (96. 5 cm) |
| Monitor | PM5 |
| Power Requirement | Takes two D cell batteries. |
| Maximum User Weight | 500 lb (227 kg) as tested by Concept2. *300 lb (135 kg) as tested per European Stationary Fitness Equipment Testing Standard EN 20957-7. |
| Resistance | 10 |
| Resistance Mechanism | Air |
| Noise Level | Loud |
| Material | Aluminum and Steel |
| Storage | Can be stored upright Can be separated into two parts |
| Warranty | 5 years for frame 2 years for parts |
| Additional Features | Bluetooth-enabled Online Logbook Device Holder Non-Slip Foot Pedals Floor Stabilizers |
With its 38.5-inch inseam length, Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine can fit tall rowers.
It uses air for resistance, one of the loudest rowing mechanisms. So if you’re looking to row quietly, this may not be the machine for you.
The Concept2 rowing machine offers 10 levels of resistance, and you can adjust it using the damper setting on the side. The PM5 monitor can track your workout data, such as pace, meters, watts, and calories.
You can easily store this rower, as you can separate it into two parts or store it upright to save space.
According to Concept 2, this rower has a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds, the highest on this list.
What To Look For In The Best Rowing Machine For Tall Persons?
Height Limit
The height limit should be one of your priorities when looking for a rower for tall users. You can tell if a rower suits you by checking at the recommended user height or the inseam length.
You wouldn’t want to be crouching and straining your back just to use a machine that doesn’t fit you. It would be best to look for a machine that can accommodate your height, so you wouldn’t compromise comfort or range of motion.
Measure your height or inseam length and compare it to the specifications of a rower. If you are purchasing in-store, I recommend you try out the rowing machine first.
Weight Limit
If you are a heavy user, it is important to consider the weight limit of the rowing machine. If a rower can’t support your weight, it won’t provide you with a safe and comfortable workout experience.
A high weight limit can also be an implication that a machine is durable and sturdy enough to withstand regular use.
Resistance and Mechanism
The resistance will determine how challenging your workout is and how many calories you will burn. A rower with a wide range of resistance options is ideal for various users, including beginners and advanced athletes.
As your fitness level improves and you want to challenge yourself more, you can increase the resistance.
You can use the lower resistance levels for warm-up, cool-down, or casual rowing. And the higher resistances for a more intense exercise.
Noise Level
The noise level depends on the type of mechanism a rower uses. Magnetic rowers tend to have a silent rowing experience.
Air rowers can be loud when used, especially when you are rowing intensely. This is because it has a fan on the damper, which helps push the air through and create resistance.
Water rowers also produce noise when rowing, but not as loud as air rowers. You will hear the water splashing around, which can be a meditative experience.
So be mindful of a rower’s mechanism when shopping.
Price and Warranty
Your budget is also one of the biggest factors when buying a rowing machine. But, don’t sacrifice the quality just because of the price.
Instead, look for a good balance between quality and price. The warranty provides a guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship.
Which rowing machine is best for a tall person?
My top pick for the best rowing machine for tall people is the Niceday Rowing Machine. This rowing machine can accommodate a user height of up to 6 feet and 9 inches.
It offers up to 16 levels of resistance and uses a magnetic mechanism, so it is quiet when used. With a weight capacity of 350 pounds, this rower can also cater to heavy people.
Plus, it is foldable, saving 50% of user space.
FAQs about the best rowing machine for a tall person
Can a tall person use a rowing machine?
Yes, a tall person can use a rowing machine. There are rowers that can accommodate users as tall as 6 feet and 9 inches. So it is just a matter of looking for a rower model that suits your height.
How tall should you be for rowing?
Male rower athletes tend to have a height of 6’3″ to 6’5″, while females can be about 5’11” to 6’1″ [5]. But if you are not an athlete and want to get in shape, there is no specific height requirement.
Is rowing easier for tall people?
Tall rowers tend to have greater power output and stroke length. So it may be easier to row when you are tall.
What to do next?
If you are worried that your height may be a hindrance to rowing, don’t be. There are plenty of models that can accommodate your height.
In fact, rowing athletes are actually tall too. So do not let your height be an excuse to not start rowing.
