I’ve always believed that rowing is one of the best full-body workouts out there. It not only boosts your cardiovascular health but also gets almost every muscle working in unison. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of a good rowing machine—and when I got my hands on the upgraded Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine, I was genuinely excited to see how it stacks up.
In this review, I’m not going to rehash all the health benefits of rowing (we’ve chatted about that in previous posts). Instead, I’m focusing on the nitty-gritty of the upgraded Merax model—a machine that many of you have been asking about.
TL;DR – Should You Buy the Upgraded Merax Rower?
Absolutely! If you’re after an affordable indoor rower that’s packed with features like a robust build, an extended rail for taller users, and a super quiet, smooth ride, this machine is well worth considering.
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What’s New in the Upgraded Merax Rowing Machine?
Let me share a few of the upgrades I noticed right off the bat:
Extra-Long Slide Rail: Now comfortably accommodates users up to 6’7” tall—a huge plus if you’re on the taller side.
Stronger Frame: The reinforced steel construction really gives you a sense of durability. I felt like I was sitting on something built to last.
16-Level Magnetic Resistance: Yep, that’s double the options from before. Whether you’re easing into a workout or pushing through a tough session, there’s a setting just right for you.
Quieter Operation: The new magnetic flywheel is impressively silent. I could row early in the morning without waking up the whole household.
Upgraded LCD Monitor: This isn’t just a basic display anymore—it now tracks strokes per minute, pulse, and a few other useful metrics.
Built-In Device Holder: Perfect for those moments when you want to follow along with a workout video or simply catch up on your favorite show while rowing.
Who Is This Rowing Machine For?
This upgraded rower has really broadened its appeal. Here’s who I think will love it:
Beginners & Home Users: If you’re just starting out or prefer exercising in the comfort of your home, you’ll appreciate the smooth, low-impact motion.
Space-Conscious Folks: The foldable design is a lifesaver if you don’t have a dedicated gym space. It tucks away nicely when you’re done.
Taller Users: Thanks to the extended rail, users up to 6’7” can now row without feeling cramped.
Quiet Workout Seekers: The near-silent operation means you can row at any time without disturbing your family or neighbors.
🔗 Side Note: If you practice rowing, you better equip yourself with rowing gloves. And a pair of rowing shoes. 😃
Diving Into the Features
1. Sturdy Frame & Extended Rail Length
One of the first things I noticed was how much more room there is to move. The extended rail now comfortably fits users up to 6’7”, which is fantastic if you’re tall like me. The frame is built from reinforced steel and coated with an anti-corrosive finish—details that might seem small but really add up to a durable, long-lasting machine. The stabilizer bars have been reworked, and I could feel the difference in balance during high-intensity sessions. With a weight capacity of up to 350 lbs, you can tell this rower was built with stability in mind.
2. 16-Level Magnetic Resistance
This is a game-changer. Doubling the resistance levels from 8 to 16 gives you a much finer control over your workout intensity. Whether you’re warming up or diving into a heart-pounding session, there’s an option that fits perfectly. The resistance changes are smooth—no sudden jolts, which means a much more enjoyable workout every time.
3. Upgraded Silent Magnetic Flywheel
I’ve used a few different rowers over the years, and one of the things I really appreciate is a quiet machine. This upgraded model’s magnetic flywheel ensures a whisper-quiet operation. I was pleasantly surprised by how little noise it makes—even during a high-intensity workout, it stays calm and steady, which is great if you live in an apartment or have young kids around.
4. Comfortable, Angled Seat Design
The ergonomic, 15-degree angled seat isn’t just for show. It really does help in providing extra support during long rowing sessions. I found that it encourages a natural rowing motion and eases the strain on my knees. The padding is just right—not too soft, not too firm—making those longer workouts a lot more comfortable.
5. Enhanced LCD Monitor & Built-In Device Holder
The upgraded LCD monitor is a big plus. It now displays more metrics like time, strokes per minute, total strokes, calories burned, and even pulse rate. I love having all that data at my fingertips; it really helps me keep track of my progress. And if you’re like me and enjoy following along with workout videos, the built-in device holder is a welcome addition. Now you can easily set up your phone or tablet right in your line of sight.
6. Foldable & Space-Saving Design
Living in a small space has its challenges, but this rower’s foldable design makes it easier to manage. It folds up neatly, and with the built-in transport wheels, moving it around is no hassle at all. It fits right into a corner or can be stored vertically without taking up much room.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- 16 Resistance Levels: More options mean better progression for both beginners and seasoned rowers.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation: The silent magnetic flywheel ensures a peaceful workout environment.
- Extended Rail for Taller Users: Accommodates users up to 6’7” tall comfortably.
- Enhanced LCD Monitor: Tracks key metrics, making it easier to monitor your progress.
- Built-In Device Holder: Great for following workout videos or catching up on shows.
- Compact & Foldable: Perfect for those with limited space.
Cons:
- No Built-In Heart Rate Monitor: If you’re keen on tracking your heart rate, you’ll need an external device.
- Basic LCD Screen Features: While it’s improved, it still lacks some of the bells and whistles of high-end models, like Bluetooth connectivity.
- May Not Satisfy Elite Athletes: If you’re looking for extremely high resistance levels, you might want to explore air or water rowers.
Final Thoughts – Is the Upgraded Merax Rowing Machine Worth It?
After spending some quality time with the upgraded Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine, I can honestly say it stands out as a great choice for home workouts. It’s affordable, packed with useful features, and the improvements really make a difference in the overall experience.
If you’re a beginner or even an intermediate rower looking for a solid, quiet machine that won’t break the bank, this rower is definitely worth your consideration. It may not have every high-tech feature under the sun, but it delivers everything you need for a satisfying, effective workout at home.
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In the end, what matters most is that you get a machine that motivates you to keep moving. For me, the upgraded Merax has done just that—making each workout a bit more enjoyable and a lot more effective. Happy rowing!
+ Additional resources
- Manual: http://www.merax.com/we/manual/MS037153BAA.pdf