In the rowing machine vs exercise bike decision, choose a rower if you have around 2.5 m of floor length and want a pulling, leg-driving movement; choose a bike if floor space is tight. The Concept2 RowErg is 244 cm long in use; the Schwinn IC3.5 is 115.5 cm long. The NHS does not rank either as better.
Is a rowing machine or exercise bike better for home cardio?
Neither is ranked as better here. The NHS gives general weekly activity targets that either machine can help meet, so the choice depends on space, budget, user weight limits and the movement you prefer. This comparison uses the Concept2 RowErg and the Schwinn IC3.5 indoor bike, because their makers publish usable specifications.
What does the NHS guidance say?
It sets weekly targets for adults, not a preference between machines. The NHS recommends adults aged 19 to 64 do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week, plus strengthening activities that work all the major muscle groups on at least two days a week. It lists "riding a bike" as an example of moderate activity and riding a bike fast or on hills as vigorous. Rowing is not named in the lists on the page reviewed, so this page does not claim a health ranking. The NHS also gives a simple test: at moderate intensity you can still talk but not sing, while at vigorous intensity you cannot say more than a few words without pausing for breath. Anyone with a health condition should speak to a GP or other qualified professional before starting.
Specification comparison
| Specification | Concept2 RowErg | Schwinn IC3.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Air flywheel rower | Indoor cycling bike |
| Dimensions in use | 244 x 61 cm | 115.5 x 53.5 x 109 cm (L x W x H) |
| Weight | 26 kg (standard legs) | 38.3 kg |
| Resistance | Air; damper 1 to 10 | Electronic, 50 levels (the page also mentions 100 levels) |
| User weight limit | 227 kg as tested; 135 kg under EN 20957-7 | 113 kg |
| Power | Two D-cell batteries; monitor draws power from the flywheel | Mains plug, 110V / 220V |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth PM5; free ErgData app and 40+ other apps | Bluetooth heart rate, partial FTMS; JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, Kinomap (separate subscriptions) |
| Warranty | Limited 2-year and 5-year warranty | Not published on the page opened |
| Indicative price | around £990 (checked Oct 2026) | No price set; check the retailer's page |
Which takes up less space?
The bike takes less floor space. The Schwinn IC3.5 is listed at 115.5 x 53.5 x 109 cm, while the Concept2 RowErg is 244 x 61 cm in use and Concept2 recommends 274 x 122 cm of clearance. The RowErg separates into two pieces for storage (63.5 x 83.8 x 137.2 cm stored with standard legs), whereas the bike has transport wheels but no stated storage size. A bike also needs a mains socket within reach, as it plugs into the wall, while the RowErg runs on batteries and flywheel power. For small flats see the small apartment home gym guide.
What is the weight limit of each?
Schwinn lists a maximum user weight of 113 kg for the IC3.5. Concept2 states 227 kg as tested by Concept2 and 135 kg under the EN 20957-7 standard for the RowErg. The two Concept2 figures come from different test methods, so a heavier user should read the manual to see which applies.
Does the exercise bike need mains power?
Yes. Schwinn says the IC3.5 plugs into a standard wall outlet on a 110V or 220V circuit, and the power cord is included. The Concept2 RowErg monitor uses two D-cell batteries and draws power from the spinning flywheel during use. If the spot you have in mind has no socket within reach, that favours the rower; see home gym safety tips.
How do fit and adjustability compare?
Concept2 says the RowErg fits inseams up to 38 in (96.5 cm) and offers tall legs that raise the seat from 36 cm to 51 cm, which it says is easier to get on and off. The Schwinn page lists an adjustable seat and handlebars but gives no ranges and no rider height range, so check the manual or ask the seller if you are particularly tall or short. The bike lists dual-sided pedals that take SPD clips on one side and toe cages on the other.
How do resistance and control differ?
The bike's resistance is electronic with 50 levels, which means a defined number you can return to; Schwinn's page also mentions 100 levels elsewhere, so confirm before buying. The rower's resistance comes from airflow through the flywheel: Concept2 says the damper changes the feel of the stroke and that the monitor's drag factor is the figure to compare. In general terms, a rower's resistance also rises with how hard you pull, which is reasoning from how air resistance works rather than a maker claim.
Which should you choose?
- Rowing machine: you have room for a 2.4 m machine or somewhere to store it split in two, and the budget runs to about £1,000 for this model. Compare alternatives in the best rowing machine for home UK guide.
- Exercise bike: floor space is tight, you prefer a seated, familiar movement, or you want a lower-cost machine. See the best exercise bike for home UK guide.
- Undecided on budget: the budget rowing machine guide covers lower-priced rowers, and the treadmill vs exercise bike comparison adds a third option.
What do each cost to own?
The RowErg has an indicative price of around £990 (checked Oct 2026), and its monitor uses batteries. No price is set for the Schwinn IC3.5 on this site, so check the retailer. Schwinn's connected apps (JRNY, Peloton, Zwift and Kinomap) each need a separate digital subscription, according to its page, so factor in any you want. Concept2's ErgData app is described as free. Neither page quotes running costs, and Concept2 describes its machine as designed to be easy to care for without giving a maintenance schedule, so follow each user manual. Delivery terms are not on either maker page read, so ask the retailer; the cost comparison with gym membership puts equipment spending in context.
How does the choice change for a specific household?
It depends on who uses the machine. A tall user should read the Concept2 inseam note: the maker's 38 in (96.5 cm) limit and extra-long monorail guidance. A heavier user should compare the 113 kg Schwinn limit with the Concept2 figures, remembering that Concept2's 135 kg and 227 kg figures come from two different test methods. A shared flat may value the bike's smaller footprint, while a household with a spare corner and a wish for a long, full-body style movement may lean towards the rower. These are reasoning from the specifications, not claims about how either feels to use.
Who should skip each?
Skip the rower if your ceiling, floor length or budget cannot accommodate it. Skip the bike if you are above its 113 kg stated limit, or if you have no mains socket nearby; the RowErg's stated limits are higher and it needs no mains lead. Neither machine suits you if a health professional has advised against the type of exercise involved. Both are exercise equipment, so follow the maker's manual for set-up and safe use, and build up gradually towards the NHS targets. For a wider look at equipment choices, read the beginner's guide to home gym equipment.
Where can you read more?
Read the Concept2 RowErg (formerly Model D) review and the Schwinn IC3.5 review for fuller specification notes.
