Simple Answer

No. The rowing machine is not an effective way to build muscle.

Does The Rowing Machine Build Muscle

Using a rowing machine applies a certain amount of load on the muscles of the back, the legs and the arms. For individuals who are extremely sedentary and have very low levels of muscle mass the rowing machine may cause some very small increases in muscle mass. If you are a young, active individual the rowing machine will add next to no muscle mass, it simply does not apply enough of a stimulus on the muscles to create hypertrophy adaptations.

Why Use A Rowing Machine

The rowing machine is used for cardiovascular development. It can be used for all different types of cardiovascular training including low intensity steady state (zone 2), high intensity interval training and all other forms of cardiovascular training. It is exceptionally effective at this style of training and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to progress their cardiovascular system. However, it is not an effective way to increase muscle mass.

How To Build Muscle

Building muscle is all about applying high levels of volume (sets and repetitions) in the form of resistance training to the muscle groups you are trying to grow. This will mean performing exercises with relatively light weights and performing a lot of repetitions. This needs to be done while in a slight calorie surplus. It is a completely different form of training that cannot be done with a rowing machine.