How To Turn On Rowing Machine

If you’ve just brought home a new rowing machine or are facing one at the gym, figuring out how to turn on rowing machine models can be the first hurdle. This easy guide will walk you through the process for every common type, from basic to high-tech, so you can start your workout without any frustration.

Turning on your rower isn’t a one-size-fits-all task. The method depends entirely on the machine’s technology. The main categories are magnetic, air, water, and hydraulic rowers, each with different power needs. Don’t worry, we’ll cover them all.

Identifying Your Type of Rowing Machine

First, you need to know what you’re working with. Look for these clues:

Air Rowers: Have a large fan cage at the front. Brands like Concept2 are the most popular example.
Magnetic Rowers: Often have a quieter flywheel and a digital console that requires batteries or a plug.
Water Rowers: Feature a tank filled with water at the front, creating a soothing swoosh sound.
Hydraulic Rowers: Smaller, with one or two pistons under the seat. These rarely have electronics to turn on.

Step-by-Step: Turning on a Digital Magnetic Rower

Most home rowers fall into this category. They need power for the console.

Locate the Power Source: Check if the console uses batteries (usually AA or AAA) or an AC adapter.
Provide Power: Insert fresh batteries or plug the adapter into the wall and into the port on the machine.
Activate the Console: Look for a physical “On” button. Sometimes, simply pressing any button or starting to row will wake up the display.
Check for Backlight: If the screen lights up, you’re ready to go. If not, double-check battery orientation or the adapter connection.

Step-by-Step: Turning on an Air Rower (Like Concept2)

These are gym staples. The fan creates the resistance, but the monitor needs power.

Power the PM Monitor: The monitor (called the PM5 on newer Concept2 models) runs on a disposable battery pack or a rechargeable one.
Start Rowing: Surprisingly, you often “turn it on” by just taking a few strokes. The flywheel’s motion generates power for the monitor.
Wake the Screen: If the screen is blank, pull the handle and row gently for 2-3 strokes. The monitor should auto-wake.
Use the Buttons: If it still doesn’t start, press the “Just Row” or any button on the monitor to intialize it.

Step-by-Step: Turning on a Water Rower

Water rowers are unique. The resistance comes from the paddles in the water tank.

Understand the System: The rowing action itself spins the tank. There’s no electronic resistance to turn on.
Check for a Smartphone Holder: Many modern water rowers, like those from WaterRower, connect to an app (like EXR) via Bluetooth. The machine itself doesn’t “turn on” electronically.
Start Your Session: Simply sit down, strap your feet in, and begin rowing. For data, open your chosen app on your phone or tablet and sync it to the rower’s sensor.

What to Do If Your Rower Won’t Turn On

Follow this basic troubleshooting checklist:

Dead Batteries: This is the most common issue. Replace them with new ones.
Loose Connections: Ensure any power adapter is firmly plugged in at both ends—the wall and the machine.
Dirty Battery Contacts: Corrosion can block power. Gently clean the metal contacts in the battery compartment with a dry cloth.
Faulty Adapter: Try a different outlet. If it still doesn’t work, the adapter itself might be broken.
Check the Flywheel: On air rowers, ensure nothing is blocking the fan. A stuck flywheel won’t generate power for the monitor.

Essential Safety Check Before You Start

Once the console is on, do these quick checks for a safe and effective workout:

Foot Straps: Adjust them so the strap goes over the widest part of your foot. They should be snug but not cutting off circulation.
Rail and Seat: Wipe down the rail and ensure the seat rolls smoothly without wobbling.
Handle and Cord: Inspect the handle for cracks and the cord for any fraying or excessive wear.
Clear Space: Make sure you have enough room behind you for the full slide forward and backward.

Setting Up Your First Workout

With the machine on, here’s how to navigate the console for a simple session.

Choosing a Basic Program

Most consoles have a “Quick Start” or “Just Row” option. This is perfect for beginners. It will typically show:

Time elapsed
Distance (meters)
Stroke rate (spm)
Calories burned (an estimate)

Understanding Key Metrics

Don’t get overwhelmed by the numbers. Focus on these two to start:

Stroke Rate: This is your speed, measured in strokes per minute (spm). Aim for 22-26 spm as a beginner to focus on form.
Split Time /500m: This is your intensity. It tells you how long it would take to row 500 meters at your current power. A lower number means you’re rowing harder.

Entering Your User Data

For accurate calorie tracking, you can often enter your weight, age, and gender into the monitor. Look for a “Settings” or “User” menu. This step is optional but helps the machine provide more personalized feedback over time.

Proper Rowing Form: A Quick Refresher

Now that it’s on, row correctly to avoid injury and get the best workout.

The Catch: Knees bent, shins vertical, arms straight, leaning slightly forward from the hips.
The Drive: Push with your legs first, then swing your back open, finally pull the handle to your lower chest.
The Finish: Legs extended, shoulders slightly behind hips, handle touching your torso.
The Recovery: Extend your arms away, hinge forward from the hips, then bend your knees to slide back to the catch.

Remember the sequence: Legs, Core, Arms on the drive. Then Arms, Core, Legs on the recovery. This flow is the heart of effective rowing.

Routine Maintenance to Keep It Running

A little care prevents most “won’t turn on” problems in the future.

Wipe Down After Use: Clean sweat from the rail, seat, and handle after every session.
Check Battery Levels: If the console dims or acts strange, change the batteries promptly to avoid leakage.
Lubricate the Rail: Every 50 hours of use, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rail per your manual’s instructions.
Tighten Bolts: Periodically check and tighten any visible bolts or fasteners to keep the frame stable.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Why won’t my rowing machine monitor turn on even with new batteries?

First, re-check that the batteries are inserted in the correct orientation (+/-). If they are, the battery contacts inside the compartment might be dirty or bent. Clean them carefully. If the problem persists, there could be an internal wiring issue requiring service.

Do I need to turn off my rowing machine after use?

For battery-powered consoles, it’s a good habit to press and hold the power button (if it has one) to turn it off, as this preserves battery life. For air rowers that generate power from rowing, the monitor will usually auto-shutoff after a period of inactivity.

How do I turn on a rower at the gym?

Gym rowers are typically always plugged in or have fresh batteries. Simply step on, sit down, and start rowing gently to activate the monitor. If the screen stays blank, look for a small “Reset” button or try pressing the “Quick Start” button firmly.

My water rower doesn’t have a console. How do I track my workout?

Many water rowers are designed to be used with a tablet or smartphone. Download the compatible app (e.g., EXR, WaterRower’s S4 Monitor app), place your device in the holder, and sync via Bluetooth. The sensor on the rower will send your data to the app.

Is it bad to leave my rower plugged in all the time?

Generally, it’s safe for machines with an AC adapter. However, for surge protection and energy saving, plugging it into a power strip you can turn off is a smart practice, especially if you won’t be using it for several days.

Getting started is the hardest part. Now that you know exactly how to turn on rowing machine models of all kinds, you can stop worrying about the buttons and focus on the workout. Consistent rowing is a fantastic way to build endurance and strength, so take this knowledge and make the most of your machine. Remember to start slow, prioritize form over speed or power, and enjoy the rhythm of the stroke.