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Finding a good rowing machine of high capacity is very tough. However, they are not as rare as you think. We have hand-picked the Best Rowing Machine of 500 lb Capacity in [current_year] so that you can focus on something that you want the most, exercising.

We think Concept2 Model E with PM5 Performance Monitor is the best of the lot. It is robust and can support up to 500 lbs with ease and may last a lifetime.

However, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative, then Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 will do the job as well.

If you are willing to do a little more research, then look at all the 7 best rowing machines with a higher weight capacity.

We are sure, you will find exactly what you are looking for.

Also, be sure to check out the Buyer’s guide to find useful information on purchasing and using the rowing machine.

Best Rowing Machines of 500 lbs Capacity HI-min

Best Rowing Machine for 500 lb Capacity in 2020

#6

Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating
Sole SR500 Rower/Ergometer with Adjustable Resistance
Editor Rating: 5 star rating
Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine PM5

IMO this is one of the best rowing machines in the market. The second one being its sibling, Concept2 Model D.

Concept2 Model E is designed for a weight of 500 lbs and will satisfy even the fussiest buyers.

It is an air rower. This means, the more effort you put into it, the more resistance it will dish out making your workout as efficient as possible.

Also, it comes with a 5-year frame warranty and the chain is nickel plated.

This makes maintenance of this rowing machine easy on your pocket.

It uses 2 D cells for power. However, the accurate PM5 performance monitor draws its power from the chain when you are working out on it.

This saves a lot of power and enhances the life of the batteries.

It comes with a 20-inch seat height which makes it easy for you to get off and on.

This seat height also helps if you have a problem with knees or other mobility issues.

You can easily separate this machine into two parts and transport them using castor wheels.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Ideal for people of any age especially older ones.
  •   Minimal maintenance may last you a lifetime.
  •   Solid built and is of gym-quality.
  •   Can accommodate a user of weight up-to 500 lbs.
  •   Low on maintenance.
  •   Easily available spare parts.
  •   5 years warranty on frame.
  •   PM5 monitor is easy to read and understand.
  •   Can wirelessly connect to your heart monitor.
  •   You can download the performance record and store it for future reference.
  •   Space Efficient.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Some users did not like the graphic and screen functions.
  •   It is a big piece of equipment.
  •   Expensive.
Editor Rating: 5 star rating
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5

This is the much talked about a sibling of Concept2 Model E. They are as efficient as the brig brother E, but it is a bit easy on your pocket.

Concept2 Model D is capable of supporting a user weight of 500 lbs and comes with a seat height of 14 inches.

This is suitable for most users. However, if you have an inseam of more than 38 inches, then Concept2 recommends you to use a longer monorail.

You can track your progress in real-time using PM5 performance monitor which self calibrates itself for a comparable result.

You can also connect this machine wirelessly to your heart rate belts and apps (not included).

This rowing machine also comes with a 5-year frame warranty and comes with a nickel-plated chain for minimal maintenance.

You can easily transport it using castor wheels when fully assembled. You may easily separate it into two parts using the quick-release frame lock mechanism. This helps you to store this machine easily.

This is a rowing machine of air resistant type and comes with damper levels of 1 to 10.

So, exercise your heart out and get the best out of every session.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Ideal for people of any age especially older ones.
  •   Easy to assemble with only 8 screws.
  •   Solid built and is of gym-quality.
  •   Can accommodate users of weight up-to 500 lbs.
  •   Low on maintenance.
  •   Easily available spare parts.
  •   5 years warranty on frame.
  •   PM5 monitor is easy to read and understand.
  •   It can wirelessly connect to your heart a monitor.
  •   You can download the performance record and store it for future reference.
  •   Space Efficient.
 NEGATIVES
  •   For some users, resistance is only evident above the 8th level.
  •   It doesn’t have fold-able hinges, so you have to split it into two pieces for storage.
  •   The fan can feel a bit noisy.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating
Waterrower Rowing machine Ash

This rowing machine is unique as it will give you a retro feel due to the Solid Ash and Stained Honey Oak frame.

Also, this rowing machine is capable of supporting a max weight of up to 1000 lbs which is way more than any other rowing machine of its class.

Wood tends to absorb sound and vibration better, so you will get a more stable ride with this beauty.

Adding to this unique experience is the fact that, this rowing machine is handcrafted and has a water flywheel.

Hence, it will give you the closest natural rowing experience along with the swooshing sound of water. 🙂

The flywheel is enclosed in a water tank and will give you a self-regulated resistance.

This model comes with a Series 4 Performance Monitor and will track your workout intensity, distance, stroke rate per min, heart rate, and more.

To save space, you will be able to store it upright.

This monitor, may not be at par with the athletic counterpart but is enough for an average user who is looking to track his basic fitness data.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Good built quality.
  •   Capable of supporting a user weight of up to 1000 lbs.
  •   Natural and smooth rowing experience.
  •   Ashwood and Honey oak give this machine extra stability.
  •   Assembling it is very easy.
  •   You can store it upright to save space.
  •   The seat and handle are very comfortable.
  •   Increase or decrease resistance by adding or removing water from the tank.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Performance monitor lacks advanced features.
  •   Some Customers felt that the noise is more.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating
Lifecore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine

If you are looking for a commercial-grade rowing machine, then this rowing machine will be your best fit.

It comes with a whopping 16 levels of magnetic resistance which you can adjust based on your comfort level.

Want more?

It comes with 15 preset programs and 4 Heart Rate Control programs to choose from.

And it is compatible with your Polar HRM gadgets.

You will have a comfortable exercise experience as this beast has an ergonomically designed seat, handles, and angled footrests with pivoting heel supports.

It can support almost any height and weight with the max recommended weight being 600 pounds.

You can store it easily, by folding it.

For warranty, this machine has three schemes,  5 years parts/1 year labor for home use, 2 years parts/90 days labor for light commercial use, and 1-year parts for full commercial.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Intended for commercial use so it can handle rough usage.
  •   Max user weight support up to 600 lbs.
  •   16 magnetic resistance and 15 predefined workout programs.
  •   Air and Magnetic Resistance with Electronic Brake System Technology.
  •   Ergonomically designed.
  •   The large monitor is easy to read.
  •   Adjustable cooling Air-Vent.
  •   Easy to assemble.
  •   Built-in Caster Wheels.
  •   Multiple Warranty Programs for different kinds of usage.
 NEGATIVES
  •   Heavier than others.
  •   After a couple of years, clutch bearings can wear out and replacement may be needed.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating
Eriding Rowing Machine Wood Water Rower with Monitor

This rowing machine is made from solid black walnut wood. This is a premium wood that provides you with a lot of durability and stability.

Also, wood is good for absorbing vibration and sound making it a quieter rowing machine.

It has a patented flywheel which provides you with a dynamic and natural rowing experience. This simulates the same feeling as using oars.

Also, the swishing sound of water is very relaxing. This rowing machine regulates the resistance on its own and is very low maintenance.

You need not use any lubrication for this rowing machine.

To purify the water, simply add a purification tablet at regular intervals.

Also, it is easy to store and transport and is capable of supporting a weight of up to 1000 lbs

+ POSITIVES
  •   Easy to assemble.
  •   Self-adjusting resistance level.
  •   Capable of supporting up to 1000 lbs.
  •   Ergonomically designed.
  •   Low maintenance.
  •   Stable and vibration resistant.
 NEGATIVES
  •   May not be as good for older people.
  •   The warranty could have been better.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating
Sole SR500 Rower/Ergometer with Adjustable Resistance

Sole SR500 is an air/magnetic rowing machine that provides you with 16 levels of resistance.

This is enough for an intense workout for any person at any fitness level.

Due to the combination of air and magnetic resistance, this rowing machine is quieter than its air counterparts.

Also, it efficiently distributes the force along with all your major muscle areas like legs, arms, and back.

The frame is strong and durable yet light and manageable.

Tracking your workouts is also easier with this rower as the LCD display comes in two colors.

The monitor has multiple programs to help users achieve their workout goals like interval training or heart rate control. It comes with a wireless chest strap.

The monitor is capable of measuring 500m time, strokes per minute, total strokes, calories, distance, and pulse.

Also, it is capable of accommodating a maximum user weight of 515 lbs.

+ POSITIVES
  •   Maximum user weight 515 lbs.
  •   16 magnetic resistance.
  •   Air and Magnetic Resistance.
  •   Lightweight yet sturdy.
  •   Dual-color monitor to measure time, strokes per minute, total strokes, calories, distance, and pulse.
 NEGATIVES
  •   You may not be able to track your workout statistics over a period of time.
  •   You may not be able to download your workout data.
Editor Rating: 4 star rating
Get RXd Xebex Air Rower Conditioning Pack

Get RXd Xebex Air Rower is our last rower in the list of best rowing machine for 500 lb capacity.

As the name suggests, it is an air rower and has a damper setting from 1-10.

Damper 1 will provide you with the least resistance and is like rowing near the surface. As you keep on increasing the damper setting your level of intensity will also go up.

It has a max weight capacity of almost 500 lbs and is capable of measuring calories, distance, time, watts, heart rate, paddle width.

The heart rate reader will work with any 5K frequency chest belt or watch.

You may also fold and transport it to a convenient store away place. To do that, you just have to pull the pop-pin attached to the bottom of the base rail.

Once the base rail is collapsed you can conveniently fold the rower vertically. This will cut the overall size of the rower into half.

Also, this rower has been tested for 1,000,000 pulls from extra strength robotic arms for durability. So, this rower will serve you for a longer time to come.

Additionally, to sweeten the deal, this rower comes with a back saver pad, EZ Speed Rope, 20-pound premium wall ball, and 15-pound slam ball.

+ POSITIVES
  •   It comes with a damper setting of 1-10 for intensive workouts.
  •   Tested for durability by using 1,000,000 pulls with the help of extra strength robotic arms.
  •   Comes with back saver pad, EZ Speed Rope, 20-pound premium wall pad, and 15-pound slam ball.
  •   It can be easily folded and transported using 4 wheels.
  •   Seat almost 2 feet above the ground making it easier to mount and unmount this machine.
  •   It comes with an extra padded, comfortable seat and handlebars.
 NEGATIVES
  •   The weight limit is around 500 lbs. May not be suitable for heavier people.
Best rowing machine for 500 lbs capacity or more. These rowing machines will help you to lose weight even if you are on the heavier side. Check them out to have an ultimate rowing machine workout experience.

Best rowing machine for 500 lbs capacity or more. These rowing machines will help you to lose weight even if you are on the heavier side. Check them out to have an ultimate rowing machine workout experience.

Buyer’s Guide

When you are trying to buy a top-quality rowing machine of 500 lb capacity or more, it may be a bit heavy on the pocket.

However, most of the time, those extra dollars will buy peace of mind and will provide you with a rowing machine that will last you for years if not a lifetime.

But that top dollar is your hard-earned money. So, before committing that to a rowing machine, make sure to do a thorough investigation.

Here are a couple of pointers that you must check if you looking for the top quality rowing machine that will be able to support 500 lbs or more.

Choose A Resistance Type

All rowing machines although performs the same basic functionality on the outside, maybe a bit different on the inside.

The main difference is the type of resistance that they use. In total there may be 5 main types of resistance that are present in a rowing machine.

  • Magnetic resistance
  • Air Resistance
  • Water resistance
  • Hydraulic Resistance
  • Elastic Resistance

Some rowing machines like Lifecore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine or Sole SR500 Rower may come with dual resistance type. But that is rare. Deciding on the type will narrow down your search to 2-3 rowing machines.

Weight Capacity

Well, this is obvious as you are reading this 500 lb capacity rowing machine article.

However, sometimes due to the price point, many users settle for way less like a 350 lb or a 285 pound one.

But that will not work out for you as your requirement is for 500 lbs or more.

And more importantly, don’t get fooled by those sales store people looking to score a quick buck.

There is a lot of rowing machine in the 350 lbs range or Under $300. They are cheaper also, but will not work if you overload them.

So it’s best to stick to your required weight capacity. If you still want to take a look at rowing machines in that range, the below articles may interest you.

Related: 

Best Rowing Machine Under $300 Reviewed

Best Rowing Machine of 350 lb Capacity Reviewed

Maintenance Needed

When picking a rowing machine, look for something with low maintenance.

For example, WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine doesn’t require any lubricant and you just need to add some purification pill to the water at regular intervals.

It cannot get any lower maintenance than this one. The bonus is a more natural rowing experience.

Foldability

Being a city dweller myself, I know the crunch of space that we have to deal with.

So, if you are struggling with the idea of how to fit these big machines into your apartment, then go for something which can be folded like Concept2 Model D.

This is not only an extremely good and durable rowing machine, but you can fold and transport it easily with the help of built-in castor wheels.

Space constraint

To be honest, the above rowing machines are bigger than the lower capacity ones even when folded.

So, if you have a space constraint you should not spend your hard-earned money on them.

Instead, you should get yourself a gym membership.

However, if you can manage space of 3 feet by 7 feet then you can easily use a water rower like Eriding Rowing Machine.

This width is including the space you need when you fold your arms completely to the side during rowing.

How to use your rowing machine correctly?

Now that you have purchased your rowing machine, it is time to put it to good use.

If done incorrectly, you may suffer a lot of injuries.

Here is a video on the Rowing Technique from the Manufacturer of the hugely popular Concept2 Model D themselves, showing you how to row correctly.

Once you have mastered that follow this easy workout routine for weight loss.

Or maybe you are a Pro in using the Rowing Machine. Then these HIIT exercises will be perfect for you.

Also, when you are rowing, a great deal of load is taken up by your back and abs.

Make sure to strengthen them as well.

Related:

Although, these articles were written by keeping runners in mind, however, for any other person who is interested in building abs can also utilize them as effectively.

If I’ve missed any model please leave the name in the comment section below.

Best rowing machine for 500 lb capacity are hard to find. However, there are a few which rowing machines that can serve you well in this category. Here is a list.

Best rowing machine for 500 lb capacity are hard to find. However, there are a few which rowing machines that can serve you well in this category. Here is a list.

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.

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