10 essential rowing machine maintenance tips for every rower

Now that you’ve finally developed a regular exercise routine, don’t forget that your equipment also needs regular maintenance to stay in optimal condition.

Rowing machine care doesn’t have to be difficult. You can keep your rower doing well into the future by following these simple rowing machine maintenance tips.

Tip 1: Keep the rowing machine away from moisture

This is universal on any fitness equipment. There is no single workout piece of equipment that reacts well to water. They are moving parts, unless they are waterproof, generally don’t do well in water.

Plus, water exposure can accelerate wear and corrosion on the equipment, particularly on metal components, compromising its structural integrity and lifespan. For these reasons, it is advisable to keep your rowing machine and other fitness equipment in a dry area to ensure safety and extend its usability.

Tip 2: Keep the rowing machine out of traffic area

Keeping a rowing machine out of high-traffic areas is crucial for both safety and functionality. For instance, placing it in a busy part of your home or gym can lead to accidents, as people walking by might trip over any part of the machine, especially the rail or the handle, which could extend into walkways when not in use.

Furthermore, rowing machines require a certain amount of space for safe operation, particularly behind the machine where the seat moves back and forth. If the rowing machine is in a congested area, you might not have enough space to fully extend during use, which can hamper the effectiveness of your workout and increase the risk of injury due to improper form or constrained movements. Hence, positioning the rowing machine in a designated, low-traffic area ensures that users can exercise safely and efficiently.

Tip 3: Keep the rowing machine away from sun exposure

Keeping a rowing machine away from sun exposure is important to protect its integrity and extend its lifespan. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the machine’s materials, such as plastic components, padding, and the console, to degrade, crack, or fade over time. Additionally, heat buildup from direct sunlight can affect the machine’s mechanical parts and electronics, potentially leading to malfunctions or reduced performance.

To protect your rowing machine, place it in an area shielded from direct sunlight, such as a shaded room or a spot with blinds or curtains. If indoor space with limited sunlight is not available, consider using a UV-resistant cover to shield the equipment when not in use.

Tip 4: Store your rowing machine where not dusty

Storing your rowing machine in a dust-free area is crucial to maintain its functionality and longevity. Dust accumulation can clog the machine’s mechanical parts, such as the seat rollers and sliding mechanism, which can lead to rough movement or even damage the components over time. Dust can also interfere with the electronics, such as sensors and displays, potentially causing malfunctions.

To keep your rowing machine in optimal condition, store it in a clean, enclosed space, or use an equipment cover when not in use to protect it from dust. Regularly cleaning the area around the rowing machine and wiping down the equipment itself can further prevent dust buildup and ensure smooth operation.

Tip 5: Conduct regular maintenance on the rowing machine

Regular maintenance on a rowing machine is essential to ensure its durability, safety, and optimal performance. Over time, components such as the seat rollers, chains, and resistance mechanisms can experience wear and tear from regular use. Conducting periodic checks and maintenance, such as tightening bolts, lubricating moving parts, and adjusting resistance settings, can prevent small issues from becoming major problems that might require costly repairs or replacements.

Additionally, well-maintained equipment provides a smoother, more efficient workout experience, reduces the risk of injury from malfunctioning parts, and extends the overall lifespan of the machine, ensuring that it remains safe and effective for regular use.

Tip 6: Never let go of the handle of the rowing machine

Never letting go of the handle of the rowing machine during use is crucial for safety and to prevent damage to the machine. Releasing the handle abruptly can cause it to snap back violently towards the flywheel or resistance mechanism, potentially damaging the equipment and the monitor.

Just take the extra quarter of a second and set the handle down gently.

Tip 7: Use the rowing machine regularly

Using a rowing machine frequently as part of routine maintenance is important because regular use helps to keep the machine’s moving parts lubricated and functioning smoothly. When exercise equipment is left idle, it can lead to the stiffening of mechanical components and the accumulation of dust and debris in critical areas, such as the seat tracks and resistance mechanisms.

Regular operation can help identify any unusual noises or irregularities early on, allowing for timely adjustments or repairs. This proactive approach ensures the rowing machine remains in good working condition, extending its lifespan and preventing potential malfunctions that could arise from neglect.

Tip 8: Clean the rowing machine right after using

Cleaning the rowing machine right after use is crucial for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the longevity of the equipment. Sweat and other residues can accumulate on the machine during workouts, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and cause unpleasant odors. Moreover, these residues can be corrosive over time, potentially damaging the machine’s surfaces, especially metal parts that are prone to rusting.

Regular cleaning immediately after use prevents this buildup, keeps the machine sanitary, and reduces wear and tear, thereby preserving the functionality and appearance of the rowing machine. This practice also ensures a more pleasant and safe workout environment for you.

Tip 9: Create a home for your rowing machine

Choosing the right place for the rowing machine is essential for ensuring both the safety and effectiveness of your workouts. The location should provide enough space for the full range of motion during use, including extra room at the end of the rails for the seat to move freely without obstruction. It should also be a stable, flat surface to prevent wobbling, which can affect your form and potentially lead to injuries.

Additionally, the environment should be conducive to exercise, meaning it should be well-ventilated, have a comfortable temperature, and be free from distractions that could disrupt your workout routine. Proper placement enhances the usability of the rowing machine, helps maintain focus during workouts, and ensures long-term durability.

Tip 10: Follow manufacturer’s instructions

Following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial for maintaining any exercise equipment because it ensures that the machine is cared for in a way that’s specifically suited to its design and materials. Manufacturers provide detailed guidelines on how to handle, clean, and maintain their products safely and effectively.

For example, with a water rower, the manufacturer’s instructions might include specific advice on how to treat the water in the tank to prevent algae growth and maintain water clarity. They might recommend adding purification tablets every six months or instruct on how to change the water annually.

Conclusion

Choosing fitness is not an easy thing to do especially if it’s a new adventure for you. Maybe you have a sedentary lifestyle and you are getting going. So, when you decide to make this purchase, it’s important that you both invest yourself and your time into what you have chosen to do. With these great tips, you should be able to keep an eye on your rower’s condition and reduce the number of small repairs.

We highly recommend make sure you keep track of these rowing machine maintenance tips and implement them.

Happy rowing!