There’s something that’s been pulling the GGR team toward YOSUDA cardio equipment and rowing machines lately—and it’s not just the magnetic resistance. YOSUDA provides a range of cardio machines that fit into both budget and mid-range prices while simultaneously showcasing decent builds and features. With a combination of solid construction and good value, it’s certainly worth a deep dive into some of the brand’s products.
For example, the YOSUDA FRM1 boasts dual air and magnetic resistance to provide a challenging workout, all while coming in at a lower price than the Concept2 RowErg—often revered as the “gold standard” of rowing machines. Still, how does it compare to the rest of the market? In our YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro review, we’ll consider the features and value of this solidly built rower as we determine who this rowing machine is best suited for…and who may want to continue shopping.
Our YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Review, Summarized
The YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rower is a basic but effective rowing machine. Our tester especially appreciates the high levels of resistance, and the fact that there is no subscription fee to use the machine. We recommend it for those with a mid-range budget who don’t mind making some concessions as far as streamable programming.
How We Test Rowing Machines
Rowing machines can be somewhat cumbersome in use, often measuring nearly 8 feet long and 2 feet wide. We rate a rower at 3 out of 5 for its footprint and portability if it can be easily moved by one person, and give extra points to foldable rowers or ones that can be stored vertically.
How well will a rowing machine last after long-term, consistent use? To gauge a rower’s durability and longevity, we look for weight capacities of at least 250 pounds, and little to no wobbling from the frame at top intensities. Rowers that meet these benchmarks will earn a 3-out-of-5 rating in this category.
We look for a rowing machine to have at least a few built-in routines and programs, but top scores will often go to interactive programming modules or extensive libraries of streamable studio classes and workouts.
With more than 30 rowing machines tested by our expert team—and twice as many profiles researched—you could say we’re constantly navigating the market in search of the best water rowing machines, air rowers, and other cardio equipment. Using our rowing machine testing methodology, our testers rate each rower with scores from 1 to 5 in categories including value, programming, durability, setup, and customer experience.
The team at Garage Gym Reviews consists of certified personal trainers, strength coaches, and elite-level athletes. This seasoned experience culminates in our detailed fitness guides to give you an informed and honest opinion on the latest and greatest in home gym equipment. In particular, we had Ironman triathlete and ultra runner Steve Svoboda test out the YOSUDA FRM1 Rowing Machine Pro.
What to Know Before You Buy
- Unlike other rowers, the YOSUDA FRM1 lacks any sort of display or LCD monitor. Instead, there is a device holder, so you can connect to the free FED Fitness app for preset workouts and fitness data tracking.
- The FED Fitness app will automatically make adjustments to the magnetic resistance, and our testers found this feature convenient and efficient. The handles have buttons to adjust settings, but it can be difficult to know if an adjustment has been made.
- There are two different warranties listed on the product page for the YOSUDA FRM1—three years total along with five years for the frame and two years for parts. On the specific product warranty page, the FRM1 is listed as having a three-year warranty, so that appears to be the correct warranty period.
Is the YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Worth It?
Since the YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rower was first released, the price has actually dropped from $899 to $799, making it a better value than before. I wouldn’t call it a budget rowing machine, exactly, but it comes in at a more affordable price than two similar rowing ergs: the Concept2 RowErg ($990) and Rogue Echo Rower ($925). Plus, it’s a sturdy model in use, backed by a weight capacity of 330 pounds—not as much as Rogue or Concept2, but still a decent user weight limit.
That said, the functionality of the YOSUDA FRM1 is fairly basic. You’ll have to use your own smart device to connect to the FED Fitness app, and the programming on the platform isn’t going to be as expansive or in-depth as other rowing apps from the likes of Hydrow or Ergatta, for example. Our tester, triathlete Steve Svoboda, also found that the seat and foot pedals aren’t the most comfortable.
We still rate the value at 3.5 out of 5, as the solid build makes it a worthwhile rower for beginners or those on a budget. Also, there are no subscription fees needed for the app. “I’d recommend this rower to a beginner wanting to see if they want to get into rowing with an entry-level machine before upgrading,” Steve adds.
Still unsure if this rowing machine is right for you? Keep reading to learn about key specifications and our testing experience to discover additional details about the FRM1.
YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro: Key Features & Specs
| Price (Original MSRP) | $799.99 |
| Product Weight | 98 lbs |
| Dimensions | 94” L x 23” W x 50.5” H |
| Weight Capacity | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Using the YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro
Rowing is a popular form of aerobic exercise, intended to increase cardiovascular endurance1 and also lower your risk of heart disease2. Indoor rowing is a low-impact exercise, so it’s less stressful on joints than other forms of cardio, such as running.
Additionally, rowing can be unique in that it provides a full-body workout and, with enough resistance, you can even achieve a bit of strength training with this type of fitness equipment for increased muscular endurance in major muscle groups.
“Rowing machines engage a wide range of muscles,” adds exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD. “The legs do most of the work during the drive phase, although the lats and lower back also play a significant role. During the pull phase, the biceps, triceps, and forearms are engaged, as well.”
Our product tester, Steve Svoboda—an Ironman triathlete and ultra-marathon runner—took the YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro for a spin across several interval workouts, noting its stability and functionality throughout his rowing experience. While he has some callouts, Steve notes, “My initial impression is that it’s a solid but basic rower; well-built for what it is, but still fairly basic.” Let’s break down this rower’s strengths and shortcomings in further detail.
A rowing machine is a great investment for a home gym because it delivers a full-body cardio workout with a singular piece of equipment, as opposed to a treadmill or stationary bike, which primarily work the lower body.
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CF-FL, CNC, CSNC
YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Rating
Footprint and Portability
When I said I wanted to break this rower down, I was serious. One of the YOSUDA FRM1’s strengths is that it separates into two parts, making for fairly easy storage post-workout. Even better, the rower has front transport wheels for more convenient maneuverability around your home gym. Steve even told me that it can store upright, although he mentioned, “I’d detach it in two if you have kids, as I wouldn’t want this rower tipping over.”
At 98 pounds and 94 inches long, the FRM1 can still be a bulky piece of equipment at times, but the available storage options and easy mobility earn it a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Delivery and Setup
The YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro comes in one 128-pound box with not a lot to assemble—just attach the legs to the main frame and slide rail, install the seat, connect the two main pieces, and you’re pretty much set. Still, with the heft of about 100 pounds and the package being nearly 5 feet long, getting the box to your ideal room may be easier said than done. As such, the delivery and setup get a 4 out of 5.
Durability
Another strong point of the YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is its solid construction. With an aluminum frame and steel slide rail, the rower can handle some use, especially considering its 330-pound weight capacity. Steve also notes that the rowing machine is sturdy and stable in operation. “It doesn’t need any floor stabilizers like some other rowers and cardio machines might,” he adds, rating the durability at 4 out of 5.
Customizations
Similar to the Concept2 RowErg, the FRM1 uses air pushing against the flywheel to create resistance. What separates the FRM1 from the pack, though, is the inclusion of magnetic resistance levels for even more intra-workout challenges. There are eight adjustable resistance levels, which can be toggled via the handlebars. When connected to the FED Fitness app, you can also take advantage of the platform’s automatic resistance control for hands-free adjustments mid-training.
While the dual resistance system makes for a unique rowing experience when compared to other best rowing machines, Steve recommends taking advantage of the automatic resistance features of the integrated app. “The buttons on the handlebars adjust the resistance, but it’s difficult to tell what adjustments you’ve made unless you’re connected to the screen,” he says. “I wish it was a bit more straightforward than this.” As such, he rates the customizations at 4.25 out of 5.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
Like some rowing machines, the FRM1’s contoured seat isn’t cushioned much, and it doesn’t provide a lot of support around the edges. Despite the more rigid seating arrangements, the slide rail does clock in at 47.24 inches long, which should accommodate a variety of heights and body types (although YOSUDA doesn’t specify an ideal height range).
The foot pedals are also adjustable for a smaller or larger foot size, but Steve notes that the heel counters toward the back of the pedals weren’t comfortable. Overall, the YOSUDA FRM1 gets a 3.75 out of 5 for its adjustability and ergonomics.
Tech Capabilities
If you haven’t gotten the gist yet, the YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is a basic rowing machine, and if there’s an area where it is most basic, it lies in its tech capabilities and dynamic programming.
Even though it lacks a lot of technology on the rower itself, the Bluetooth connectivity allows you to access metrics, data, and workouts via the FED Fitness app, so we still rate the tech capabilities at a modest 4 out of 5.
Dynamic Programming
The most obvious difference between most rowers and the FRM1 is the lack of a center console. Rather than an LED or LCD display, there’s a device holder that can support your smartphone or tablet. The rower can connect via Bluetooth to your phone and display metrics through the FED Fitness app. There’s no heart rate monitor on the rowing machine, either, but you can connect a smartwatch or fitness tracker to the app and monitor accordingly.
The programming provided isn’t anything stellar—aside from the fact that it’s free. The modules are basic rowing workouts led by an instructor. There’s nothing, in particular, to make them stand out, so the dynamic programming gets a 2 out of 5.
Price and Value
We rate the value of this rower a 3.5 out of 5—slightly better than what we’d call a fair offer. (A score of 3 out of 5 means the offering is perfectly fair for the price.) While there are better values out there for the price point of around $800, what really brings the YOSUDA FRM1 to a more-than-fair rating is its build quality and the free programming.
Customer Reviews
As of this writing, there is only one review of the YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro on the FED Fitness website. While YOSUDA products are sold on Amazon, this specific model isn’t available through the A-to-Z online retailer.
The positive 5-star review praises the sturdiness of the rowing machine capable of supporting the reviewer’s 200-pound frame, and they claim to like the dual air and magnetic resistance, as well. Still, we like to see more customer reviews on fitness equipment to get a sense of the community’s view as a whole, so we’ll update you as new reviews come in.
Financing, Warranty, and Returns
On FED Fitness’ website, the YOSUDA has two warranties listed, but its actual warranty is three years of coverage (according to their warranty page)—a bit below the average we like to see of five years on the frame. It’s typical for more affordable rowers to have shorter warranty periods, so this isn’t too bad of a deal. Financing is available through Klarna, and FED Fitness provides a 30-day return window, although the product must be in its original packaging.
Customer service can be reached through a contact form on the website where they claim to reach you within 24 business hours. They also provide an email address where you can contact the brand between the office hours of 9AM and 5PM (PST), Monday through Friday. FED Fitness and the FRM1 earn a 4 out of 5 for the overall customer experience.
YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Vs
The construction of the YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is similar to the “gold standard” of rowing machines—the Concept2 RowErg—so it’s only fair to compare it to this best seller admired by CrossFit athletes, avid fitness enthusiasts, and weekend warriors alike.
While the Concept2 RowErg isn’t known to be tech-riddled, it does come with a PM5 monitor, which tracks almost every metric you’d want from an erg: rowing strokes per minute, split times, distance, calories, and more. You can achieve the same on the FRM1, but it’ll have to be through your smart device.
You can check out our in-depth Concept2 RowErg review for more information.
Another similar option is the Aviron Strong Go Rower, which uses a dual air-magnetic resistance system like the YOSUDA. Similarly, the Strong Go also emulates resistance training, rather than purely cardiovascular training, at the higher levels. Its flywheel delivers up to 100 pounds of resistance, while the YOSUDA FRM1 delivers about 182 pounds.
The Aviron Strong Go Rower is slightly shorter in both length and height than the FRM1, so it may be a better choice for those with limited space. It’s also a better option for exercisers who wish to have access to highly interactive, well-thought-out programming; the Aviron app has some of the best row programming available, per our many testers. That said, the machine costs about double the FRM1, and the app requires a subscription fee of $29 per month.
Learn more in our Aviron Strong Go Rower review.
| YOSUDA FRM1 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro | Concept2 RowErg | Aviron Strong Go Rower | |
| Price | $799.99 | $990 | $1,599 |
| Footprint | 94” L x 23” W x 50.5” H | 95” L x 24” W | 84” L x 27” W x 48” H |
| Seat Height | 19.3” | 14” or 20” | 20” |
| Product Weight | 98 lbs | 57 lbs | 105 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 330 lbs | 500 lbs | 507 lbs |
| Type of Resistance | Air and magnetic resistance | Air resistance | Air and magnetic resistance |
| Resistance Range | 8 levels of magnetic resistance (up to 182.59 lbs) | 10 damper levels | 16 levels of magnetic resistance (up to 100 lbs) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5-year frame, 2-year parts | 20 years |
Final Verdict of Our YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Review
Whether you consider it a pricier budget rower or a lower-end mid-range rowing machine, the YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rower can be a more affordable option than the Concept2 RowErg or the Rogue Echo Rower, although the lack of a screen may deter some users. Here are a few things to consider before deciding on your purchase:
- There’s no subscription fee required to access the FED Fitness app, meaning the nearly $800 price tag is all you’ll be paying (after shipping and taxes).
- While there’s no screen on the rower, the FRM1 connects to the FED Fitness app through Bluetooth. It’ll track metrics and have basic workouts, but it shouldn’t be compared to higher-end programs like Hydrow or Ergatta.
- The compact storage options and solid construction of the FRM1 are its strong points, featuring parceled and vertical storage capabilities and a 330-pound weight capacity.
- The dual air and magnetic resistance is innovative, although making adjustments wasn’t as intuitive as we would’ve liked.
YOSUDA Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Review: FAQs
Are YOSUDA rowing machines good?
Compared to other popular home cardio brands like NordicTrack or Sole, YOSUDA offers durable, affordable profiles catering to a slew of needs and training preferences. If you’re looking for decent budget rowing machines, YOSUDA can be a great place to start, although the brand’s machines may not have the functionality of higher-end products and models.
Are magnetic rowing machines any good?
While many people may prefer the feel of an air rower or water rowing machine, a magnetic rowing machine is still a very viable option for getting a solid cardio workout in. Compared to air and water rowers, magnetic rowing machines also provide a smoother, quieter experience. These machines typically require less maintenance over time, as well, and can often feature add-ons like large touchscreens and expansive workout libraries.
RELATED: Air Vs. Magnetic Rowing Machine
Will I lose belly fat using a rowing machine?
Using a rowing machine for cardio workouts can help burn calories, which can support weight loss if this puts you in a calorie deficit—burning more calories than you’ve consumed. However, it’s important to note that no specific exercise can target fat in a specific area. Commonly referred to as spot reduction, this concept is a myth—you can lose fat on rower, but you won’t be able to target your belly fat, specifically.
GGR panel expert Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, elaborates, “Targeted fat loss simply doesn’t happen like people tend to think. Instead, fat loss happens all over the body, not just in one spot. A full-body workout and a healthy diet are both needed for effective and lasting fat loss.”
References
- Xiaochen Lin, MS, Xi Zhang, PhD, Jianjun Guo, MD, Christian K. Roberts, PhD, Steve McKenzie, PhD, Wen‐Chih Wu, MD, Simin Liu, MD, ScD Simin_liu@brown.edu, and Yiqing Song, MD, ScD. Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Biomarkers of Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of the American Heart Association (AHA), Volume 4, Number 7. https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.115.002014
- Mersy D. J. (1991). Health benefits of aerobic exercise. Postgraduate medicine, 90(1), 103–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1991.11700983
