A popular cardiovascular workout choice, rowing machines exercise your whole body while putting very little strain on your joints.

Men and women alike find rowing machines give them a rewarding and satisfying workout experience, and they're suitable for all ages.

Rowing machines offer you a vigorous workout that can burn up to 800 calories per hour. They also strengthen your legs, hips, back, arms, shoulders and abs. However, you do need to make sure that you're using the correct technique on the machine, otherwise it's possible to injure your back, knees or shoulders. Having said that, the technique is easy to get the hang of, and once you're familiar with the machine, you'll be able to set your own pace and work out however hard you like.

If you're considering buying one, there are two main types available:

Hydraulic models
Wind bladed models

Hydraulic models are generally cheaper, but the action is often not as smooth as on wind bladed models. Some hydraulic models are multi-use machines, enabling you to perform other exercises, but their multipurpose function tends to be at the expense of the rowing motion itself. More expensive models will often include electronic display panels that show elapsed time, stroke count, strokes per minute, and total distance rowed. The more sophisticated machines also offer a number of pre-set programmes and a heart rate monitor.

Whatever model you're considering buying, make sure you test it thoroughly first. Here's some things to look out for:

Smooth, quiet action - the seat should glide easily back and forth
An electronic display that's easy to read and simple to use
How much space will it take up? Some folding models can be stored away
Does the warranty cover the electronic controls as well as the machine itself?