@@trainingtall You should do some more reviews of more budget friendly rowers. Not everyone can drop $1K on a Concept 2 and UA-cam is almost completely empty of real reviews of anything else.
@@trainingtall Of course, I found your review today, instead of during the course of dozens of hours of research over the last four months, before finally pulling the trigger on this model. I didn't know I wouldn't be able to perform a full rowing stroke on this machine or I'd never have gotten it. The reviews were great and seemed to confirm that the machine would be long enough for me, which is always a concern for me, as it is even more so for you. My wife and I are very new and just looking for the most efficient all-in-one machine, with cardio being an emphasis. It's now bought and used, and I doubt I'd be able to get a refund, were I to pursue that. So I guess my question is, how much of the workout are my wife and I really missing out on? Would some kind of pedal modification be all it takes to make you confident it's a complete machine? I know the resistance and the monitor are your other major issues. Correct form seems like the most important one, to me. Anyway, rambling now. Thanks very much for your video, however upset it made me.
This is the exact rower I have. I don't even use the monitor I just put my phone over it and follow along with your workouts and try to keep up. I just moved my resistance up to 5. The weight has been coming off though so I'm happy with it
@@kellykel4472 I focus too much on the cardio end. I dont have my resistance that high. but depending on the workout my legs get a good burn but i dont feel too much on the glute end. I can see getting a good one in on the glutes if the resistance is high enough though.
@@aimeenelson7540 skip this machine and go for a more expensive one.that will last longer and gives you much more enjoyment during the training session.
This is the row I have. I just started using it to get back in shape and lose some weight. I don't really care about performances, I just need to burn fat and get fitter. I think so far its perfect for me. However I completely agree with the pros and cons on the video.
I have this machine and I can't wait to "outgrow it". I am glad that you put in the pros of the machine as well as the cons. I bought it used for $30 bucks! Thanks for the vid! It will help me to know when I'm ready for a step up.
Absolutely excellent review. Thank you for highlighting the shortcomings: the footplate pivot, the inability to do a full row, the ability to break through the magnet's resistance, everything. 10/10; just gained a fan. Thank you.
I'm 67. Bought this rower about a year ago. For the $183 it's been one of the better purchases I've made. Get a decent workout, doesn't take up much space and no subscription required.
Ok, I get it. The budget rower broke just shy of 3 years. I broke down and got the Hydrow wave. HUGE difference. The budget rower did it's purpose. Proved that I could stick with it. Just went over 100K meters on the Hydrow. Much better workout.
Sculled in college 50 years ago and have used Concept 2 intermittently since. Got one of these for less than a third of the price of a Concept 2 and have been more pleased than I thought I would be . Agree that the monitor is useless. Not bad for a retirement machine.
Just ordered this from Amazon and given what you have to say about it I suspect I'll treat it as a beginner rowing machine with a likelihood I'll sell it and pick up a better one once it's clear I'll be continuing rowing. Thanks for the review.
Was delivered three days ago and it is great for what I was looking for a great work out low resistance it you like dial it up and giver so smooth. Four days in still in love... never need a mat underneath at all/ seat is good/ love the single bar easy to move it around mid row// I put a comfy platform Ugg slipper in the foot slot strapped in so I got it all going on : D
I got mine like new for $125 and already assembled, can't beat that. I'm 65 and 5' 11", so it works perfectly for me. I usually do a 20 minute rowing workout every other day to complement my 11K daily walk. I think for the price it is excellent quality for a beginner and maybe someday I will outgrow into a more professional machine or just use the ones available at the gym. Of course I would love to have a Concept 2 like some people mention, but you're looking at 6-7X the price, which is not what this review is about.
Good review. I just bought this rower and am putting together while I'm watching your video. From what your saying, this rower is just right for me. I'm 70 yrs. old, so I just need to get my butt moving and not interested in any fancy monitors or bells and whistles. The price was right and it's seems to be of solid construction.
Good video! Exactly the reasons why I switched from a Kettler magnetic rower to Concept2 8 years ago - I "outstronged" the magnetic one. Never regreted the money I spent on the Concept2.
Followed one of your other videos here. Seems like you could utilize that "extra 7 inches" in the rear to mount some fixed footplates 4 inches behind the ones provided which would stretch your stroke and fix the rotation issue without hitting the rear stop. Not a project for everyone, but doable for those on a budget.
Brand new to rowing, I snagged one of these right at the beginning of the stay-at-home measures. I just needed something to keep me moving every day cooped up at home. I’m 6’4” and agree with everything except strangely I find the seat super uncomfortable and can only take it for about 25 minutes at a time. Definitely planning to upgrade to a better one eventually.
I ordered this just got it today, I'm sending it back tomorrow No resistance. My kids 7 and 11 think it's too easy and a toy. Going to try and find something else.💪
Wow. Seems they could resolve a lot of issues all in the foot rest. 1) Move it back 6 inches. 2) Make it less flimsy, and also immobile. 3) If it won't adjust, then add straps to accommodate different foot sizes.
I've got one, was ok for a few weeks but quickly out grew it. Upgraded to a water rower after a about a month. Definitely save a bit more and get a better rower. Was a waste of money buying this then having to upgrade nearly straight away.
Could you expand more on how/why you outgrew it? I'm considering purchasing a rower, but I'm disabled and no longer able to work - so a cheap option is the only possibility. I'm also seriously out of shape, being a walker/wheelchair reliant person - so I'm not sure if your opinion would be different for someone in my situation.
@@lissaw4 the magnetic rower had limited data. Once I started pushing myself further I had no real measurement of progress. When I upgraded the data was much better and I could target certain times and distance.
This is the rower that I have. I am over a foot shorter than you are so I find that I can get a full stroke. On the higher resistance settings I have not achieved the breakthrough feeling. lol. Thank you for helping me feel that I didn't buy a dud.
Just bought this rower and I can agree with all the pros and cons. I'd add that the way the seat is designed that the back lip of the seat rubs the base of my spine pretty badly and has resulted in some "row rash".
I don't feel the burn in my shoulders or my arms with this machine. I feel it more in my legs. I definitely need to upgrade and I had mine on 12 resistance number the highest one.... I have an older model. Thank you for the pros and cons
Do you think that this rowing machine can be 'worth it' if we somehow find a way to block the foot plates so they can't move ? Btw thank you for the very good review of this product.
Just got this for 180 dollars on amazon. Thanks of the review... if this ends up failing for me, I think my kids will probably have fun on the number 1 setting.
Thanks for the review. Just ordered one to get some exercise during quarantine. From my research, this was the best for the price. Most people buy exercise equipment, use it a few times and that's it. I'm willing to gamble a couple of hundred bucks on my ephemeral good intentions, but not more than that.
I got this a year ago from someone who was moving and could not being it with them. I'm pretty much use it as you say, as a supplement to Cross Fit and running. I don't use the monitor, but I usually row with a heart rate monitor and I will either row for time or I will use the heart rate monitor estimate of calories.
Hey again!! You did it! Thanks for getting your hands on this rowing machine & sharing this review! I'm quite an amateur, but I absolutely agree with you on many things: comfty seat, silent mechanism, compact model, but also, the monitor is not the best (I need watts!!), steady resistance, yet I would add something else: In my case, being quite shortie, I DID get blisters in my hands!!! :( and as you mentioned, it's rather difficult to get to a full extension or break your own records..keep progressing. Last comment: there's a version with 'foot plates', a double function that allows you to exercise arms and back only...so that gives it a thumb up, I guess! Thanks so much!! =]
Hi Paula, Unfortunately you will get hand blisters on any ergo because you’re tensing up and gripping it too tight. All you need to do is use your four fingers like a hock over the handle with your thumb relaxed below it - don’t grip it like your life depends on it - keep the wrists flat so you have a straight line running from your knuckles all the way up your arms. All when coming forward go for the “piano fingers” where you loosen and just lift your finger tips during the recovery to help relax your hands. Blisters are common in rowing and this helps in the exact same way forcing you to relax that grip and hey presto, you should never get blisters no matter how much power you put down on the drive 😎 Ps: this also helps relax the shoulders and in turn helps the lower back a little. Stay Safe
Due to the covid house confinement I have purchased a senior bike trainer and am now going to acquire a rowing machine to maintain body movement and fitness, thanks for your helpful clips
This convinced me to go with a water rower that would allow me to have proper form, ended up with a MaxKare water rower that was $359 (mid January 2020). It has the 500m split, spm, and all that. We'll see if I made the right choice.
Thanks for this review. I got one of these as a Christmas gift in 2019 and it's been a good intro to rowing for me. I enjoy rowing and I intend to use this machine until I can justify an upgrade (mainly just proving that I'll stick with it in the longer-term). What would you suggest for a higher-quality but still inexpensive machine? My guess is that by the end of the year, there will be a bunch of people selling lightly used equipment that they got during the lockdown and then didn't really use, so I might look to upgrade fall/winter 2020. Just found your channel last week and the content is excellent. Thank you.
Oh, I was also going to ask if you had tips for using this to get a good workout. I followed your 40 min calorie burn (18, 20, 22 spm) and had it on resistance 6. It was good mental discipline and made me look at my form closer, but my heart-rate peaked only at 120, which didn't seem very high to me at all. Do you have a suggestion for maximizing the benefit?
If you have access to an angle grinder plus a mig welder you could rectify the obvious design faults or just save time and buy a good second hand Concept2 ModelC or newer? 😎
Thanks for the honest review. I'm getting fat during quarantine but this video has taught me that I need to spend a little bit more for a better rowing machine. Sub and Like added!
What a great review! I’m a rowing newbie and have been using your 30 min workout (20, 22 ... 28 and down from there) for a bit now (perfect for me!). I’m 5’8” and noticed I couldn’t bend forward as far as you do in your video as I row along with you. Your arms went way further out than mine do. As I was watching this review it all made sense! No wonder my wrists curl at the start of each pull! I don’t feel as if I get the whole stretch. Other than that I love this thing. I’m a mom of teen boys, busy but not working out until I looked down after 6 months in quarantine (well, kind’a) and had excess around my waist. Aargh ... hate it. I love the body that rowing supposedly gives you, so I bought this one and here I go! Wish me luck 😆. I hope I can get enough of a workout with a 3/4 stroke 🤨. Thanks for doin’ this!
I'm as beginner as they get, and I've tried to sit on a bunch of rowers, not just this one. I'm 6'1". The truly biggest problem is, like mentioned, the extension at the end of the stroke. I started off on a Concept2 at my work gym, and nothing else feels right. It's the one biggest issue, like I'm cheating myself with that 3/4 stroke.
Thanks for the review ☺ I'm 55 and have a bum knee and tricky back. I'm looking for low impact cardio and if one day can out muscle this machine, I owe you a smoothie or beer lol
Excellent review, thanks. I'm a novice at rowing, 6' 2" tall. Unfortunately, I bought this rower before seeing this review. As I studied videos on good rowing form, I encountered the compression limitations, and then found this video which confirmed the problem. Also, I didn't think the limited computer would be a problem, but I am finding it to be a minor nuisance -- and it is quite hard to read it while rowing. Otherwise, I am impressed with the build quality for the price. I'll keep it for now, but if I stick with rowing, I'll definitely look at an upgrade down the line.
Great review. Once I saw you could not get over your ankles, that was all I needed to see. No sense in getting a rower that only lets you do 3/4 of a stroke.
How? It seems the issue would be in the length of your arms. The foot holsters are only a few inches back from the handles starting position. That seems like it would prevent anyone from properly stacking the knees over the feet and having the arms fully extended out in front of you at the start/end of each row.
Thank you very much for this review! I totally understand the pros and cons of this particular machine I almost bought this in Amazon. I will find something else that suits my needs.
Not a fan of this machine. Long one, sorry. When I wore out my Stairmaster, I decided to change my everyday machine and looked into rowing. I was not sure if I would like it since I have not the best knees and could not really try them out much due to COVID, so I tired this one. At first was great. Quiet and got a pretty good work out, but agree that you do not get a full row (and I am only 5'10"), as I learned when I got an upgraded machine, but that happened later. Anyway, first issue I had was with the foot press, but not the plastic piece itself, but the bolt that holds it to the unit. It snapped. About 2 weeks of use. Got it replaced but took about 10 days to get. Started using again and about 2-3 weeks later, all of the sudden, no tension. Few calls to customer service, videos back and forth, needed a replaced volute spring. So was in pieces on my floor for 2-3 weeks waiting for that. When I got it, It was faulty the day I installed it and needed to wait for a 3rd. "Rush" processing on another one, or about 12 days, and I replaced it AGAIN. By this point I at least knew I liked rowing and got on the waiting list for a Concept2 hoping it would last until I could buy one. Wrong. 3 weeks later the tension became very weak and uneven. Further, during that time I occasionally heard what sounded like small pieces of plastic falling in the unit itself. At this point I was done and threw it away. Admittedly, I used it 5 days a week for 30 minutes and pushed as hard as I could. But I am not an athlete and new to rowing. I am NOT working the machine so hard I should only get 2-3 months of use of (had for about 5-6 but was waiting for parts or diagnostic for 2-3 as well). Anyway, if you are only going to lightly use it a couple days a week, it may be ok. But if you are going to use it, I do not recommend. Sure, the Concept2 cost 3 times as much, but if it lasts a year, it will already be a better value. And as for the full row, first time I used it I was amazed how much better the work out was, did not even think I was going to make it the 30 minutes. Full rowing motion really works you so much more.
Thanks for your advice and expertise. I got this model as a gift from my children, so I will keep it and use it. It will be an addition to my daily fitness regimen, which includes a weight workout and rucksacking. My goal is overall fitness, so this rower will be just fine. You've helped me use it as best as possible. Dana San Diego
I'm new to rowing. I've been watching your videos and am really geared up to start. Can you recommend a decent rowing machine for a beginner that won't break the bank?
This machine will not duplicate the actual rowing mechanics, but as a beginner, you will find that you can work harder than you ever thought possible. If you plan on rowing with other people, this will cramp your form and require reteaching.
@@stevenhook4118 Can you recommend one budget rowing machine? I'm looking on buying an ENCHANFIT rowing machine because I can't afford right now the high tier ones. Please do advise!
Hi, I was thinking of buying this Sunny rower but changed my mind after watching this video. Which rower do you recommend for under $400? Thanks. Happy New Year!
Do you have a video on the best budget rower? I miss rowing and would do join your 20 day thing but without access to one I can't. Unless concept 2 does a payment plan.
greettings from Costa rica Hello Training Tall, Is the Proform Rower 750R worth it (male 5.11 / 180pounds). Appreciate your your guide and help as we do not have many options down here. Best regards
I need to strengthen my middle back to help lift my shoulders back. Do you think this rower would help me do that? I'm torn between getting this one to save money and getting the Concept 2, which will take some of my savings.
Hmmm. I was actually going to buy this off Amazon and now I'm more reluctant then ever. I used to row all the time at the gym, but well, that's not happening. You said that for a couple hundred dollars more you'd get a better machine. I'm wondering what that would be, and is it quiet. I'm the one you spoke for in the video, I live in an apt, want something that doesn't take up a HUGE amount of space, and is quiet. What would you suggest? Thanks.
Have you used the Hydrow?!? I’m REALLY interested in it because of the fact it could give me the similar feeling of rowing with people and on a team again. I used to row competitively in college and it’s been a year. I just came across Hydrow so I’d like to know your opinion and thoughts on it. Thank you!
Same. For me at least, I've never used a machine. I did my research and found that this was the best cheapest option - according to the Amazon reviews comparing it to the Concept 2. I plan on selling this when the Concept 2 comes available again. But for now, it's a good enough machine, no regrets to make sure I like it, and I just follow along with Austin's videos. Because the monitor is crap. At least it's air not magnetic!
@@trainingtall Seems like the same dimensions of the Sunny. I love the flywheel over the magnetic pull. It's really light. If I could change the monitor and the seat I probably would keep it. The seat sucks, no cushion, the first longer stretch (30 mins) I did, my butt was dead.
I am a very short female, only 5 feet tall. I am looking to get a rowing machine up to $350.00. I never had tried any rowing machine. I would like to lose some weight. Your review is excellent!!! Is this Sunny Fitness better than Fitness Reality 1000 Plus? Would this one like the Sunny would prevent a full stroke as well? Or would you recommend another one in my budget? Thanks
I do agree that the computer is not as useful as the high end rowing machine. I strongly recommend to buy it if you are just looking for a low budget rowing machine. It is not very fancy; however, I feel like I am rowing a boat on the water when I row on this machine.
I bought this as my first rower. I was disappointed that it has such a short stroke. My sister has one of these also. Compared to mine, her resistance settings feel much heavier. My level 8 is like her level 5. So they are apparently not manufactured with much consistency. One other thing that bothers me is the bolts on the foot plates keep backing out. I can not really afford or justify a $1,200 rower. But I would like to have a better one than this. It sure beats my fan bike!
Am I doing something wrong? The highest resistance feels like nothing, it's definitely more than the first few levels but it still doesn't feel hard at all. Is it because it's magnetic? What type do I want for more of an actual strength work out?
Great review - I was looking at getting one of these but decided against it last minute. My workplace are loaning me an Oartec Slider Air Rower which is fantastic, waiting to get a Concept 2 once they are back in stock in the UK. Totally get what you say about Magnetic Rowers, i'm new to rowing and tried a magnetic rower a few weeks ago but really found it too easy resistence wise and didnt feel like I got a good workout ...
edit: long story short -- A plastic wheel guiding the belt broke in just months of moderate use with my sunny machine. I tried a concept 2 at the gym today and I was blown away. Feels like a much more even pull and better on my joints I knew there must be a fairly significant difference from how people talked about it but it's night and day. -- old thoughts below I will say I got a SF-RW5801 model (not sure how many differences there are, main I can identify is 16 resistance levels instead of 8) and at 6' I feel like I'm getting a full range of motion. Hower my hips are a little tight still so I'm not reaching crazy far at my pelvis and my legs are long for my height so I that might make my upper body reach more like 5'9 person than 6'. The foot straps still are not adjustable which is questionable for sure but I've been rowing without straps per your core work suggestions and shoeless which might help with foot positioning on the pedal as well (per the rotation). The higher resistances I doubt average people would have to worry about out muscling (my back has always been my only confident muscle group and while the rower works the legs it seems like connecting your hands to your feet through your back is the hardest part) The poor info is very sad though I will admit. I can still tell I'm making beginner gains just from stroke count at higher intensity and just feel but I definitely think I'll want to borrow other rowers to set real bench marks for myself. It's also possible it's very hard for an experienced rower to go to this from other machines. I haven't really rowed before so while I identified the sticking point it didn't jump out at this problematic annoying thing for me. Basically just echoing your thoughts, if someone is going to be a very serious rower they probably don't want a magnet machine but just adding in that 6' people can get full strokes on a similar model, shoeless can help with the pedals, and they have other cheap models that might have more resistance (not sure if it's just the same max resistance but more sliding options) thanks for all the videos
Hips got reasonable flexibility and now I'm capable of reaching well past where the handle gets stopped at the start and am rowing constantly at the full resistance. This can probably be reasonable for someone that is very out of shape or older but feels insufficient once you're starting to get anywhere. No idea what my benchmarks are since it doesn't have stats but did 22.5 strokes per minute for 20 minutes at the full resistance feet out and that's still a good work out, and intervals can definitely get me a great work out but yeah, would prefer a better erg a lot.
Final update hopefully lol. In the last weeks I had adjusted my hip / knee positioning a bit because my form was still trash I realized which was impacting my knee and the way the machine starts with full tension probably exacerbates potential knee issues. I shortened my stroke and my knee was happier for it. Shortly after inside the machine one of the belts is just guided on a piece of plastic. That plastic wheel guiding the belt broke in just months of moderate use. I tried a concept 2 at the gym today and I was blown away. I knew there must be a fairly significant difference from how people talked about it but it's night and day.
Hi! @Training Tall, which rower do you think could be great to help doing really good abs and to tone and strengthen arms and legs? Does this Sunny you are showing on this video could work fine for that? (I'm not tall at all).... I want to take the correct decision as they are really expensive in Mexico, and if I'm going to spend good money I really want to get one that really works. Thank you!
wife got me one because covid closed our pool. this plus apple fitness got me hooked on rowing. i cracked both of the original foot rests. the design is awful the straps you use to lock down your feet wrap around this thin plastic part of the foot rest and it cracks very easy. then last night the whole magnetic drive system destroyed itself mid workout. my wife was so mad (she got it for me but had just finished telling me how much she liked it and was on day 13 of rowing everyday) so I called my local life fitness distributer and took the last floor model HX rower. much better and the sounds a water rower makes are so soothing.
I need a really good quality rowing machine. Like the one Frank Underwood used in House of cards. What is a really good rowing machine that is in between $800 to $1,000 ? One that's I think it's called crew rowing where you can extend your shoulders out more if you get my drift. Thank you for your detailed video I've taken competitive rowing and I've out maxed the one I have so I'm going to get a quality one that's easy to use but has high resistance
Im so anoyed i didnt see your video before i bought magnetic rower. Im so dissapointed as i feel almost no resistance (i mean low) great video and advice. Defo gonna get air or water one
Thanks!!! These are on sale right now for a killer deal. And, my main reason for, specifically, looking at your review, is that I have a 6'5" teen. And to see you actually rowing this machine, i was sure it wasn't for us as a family. Thank you for honesty!!
I'm a former c2 owner (sold in moving sale) and current sunny owner (bought at a heavy discount), and this review is spot on Of course, had I watch it first, I would not have bought the sunny, my main complaint being out-muscling the magnetic resistance as identified on the review (and I am not D1 rower, just a random, normal height/build 50yr old).
I know this is a year old…but we’re you aware that the petal straps can actually thread through the second set of slots below where the straps are now? Didn’t see anyone point it out. Maybe I missed something…
I bought one that looks like this one but with the name Yosuda on it. It has a high weight limit and I figured it would be a good starter machine to see if I like it. The magnetic flywheel is indeed ultra quiet so you can watch tv or listen to music.
@training tall, Do you think this rower is good for someone who just wants the benefits of rowing exercise? Like instead of an exercise bike. But not for training whatsoever.
Hey Austin, need an honest unbiased opinion: does the WaterRower provide good resistance compared to the C2? I've read comments saying that the WaterRower provides poor resistance regardless of how hard or fast a person rows. Just wanna make sure i dont spend $1,200 only to end up disappointed. Thanks.
Is this easy on the knees? I tried bikes and elliptical and my right knee just cannot take it. Figured the rower would be even lower impact with with high cardio.
I recently ordered a magnetic rower similar to this, the on sale price was impossible for me to pass up. After seeing this video I'm concerned about the 3/4 stroke problem. I'm short at 5'1" so I wonder if I might get closer to a full stroke? The last thing I want is to put in time working out and not get the full benefit. I'm mostly a beginner rower so I'm not worried about resistance. (used the c2 at the gym at most 30min maybe once a month) I plan to use this to supplement maybe a circuit to my treadmill and spin bike which get heavy daily use. Will be giving the new mag rower try when I get it all set up and find out.
I have a similar model (SF-RW5987 I believe) and at 6' I feel like I can get a pretty full stroke. I am rowing feet out without shoes (maybe shoeless is bad?) and that can help with strap positioning at least for larger feet and I think it helps with the foot rotation the demonstrator was having. I don't currently have the full hip rotation just from tight hips and that might end up being an issue on stroke length but currently I don't feel impeded by the machine and at 5'1 I can't imagine it being an issue unless SF-RW5987 is markedly different from this one.
Nice to see a real review of one of the less expensive rowers.
Thank you - I'm trying to get my hands on them!
@@trainingtall You should do some more reviews of more budget friendly rowers. Not everyone can drop $1K on a Concept 2 and UA-cam is almost completely empty of real reviews of anything else.
Is it still working good? I love rowing in the gym n would like to buy a cheap rower to start at home since the gyms now close.
@@trainingtall Of course, I found your review today, instead of during the course of dozens of hours of research over the last four months, before finally pulling the trigger on this model. I didn't know I wouldn't be able to perform a full rowing stroke on this machine or I'd never have gotten it. The reviews were great and seemed to confirm that the machine would be long enough for me, which is always a concern for me, as it is even more so for you. My wife and I are very new and just looking for the most efficient all-in-one machine, with cardio being an emphasis.
It's now bought and used, and I doubt I'd be able to get a refund, were I to pursue that. So I guess my question is, how much of the workout are my wife and I really missing out on? Would some kind of pedal modification be all it takes to make you confident it's a complete machine? I know the resistance and the monitor are your other major issues. Correct form seems like the most important one, to me. Anyway, rambling now. Thanks very much for your video, however upset it made me.
@@trainingtall does it count burned calories
This is the exact rower I have. I don't even use the monitor I just put my phone over it and follow along with your workouts and try to keep up. I just moved my resistance up to 5. The weight has been coming off though so I'm happy with it
Me too!
I’ve never rowed before and it’s something I wanna take up. How’s the machine for a beginner?
@@kellykel4472 I focus too much on the cardio end. I dont have my resistance that high. but depending on the workout my legs get a good burn but i dont feel too much on the glute end. I can see getting a good one in on the glutes if the resistance is high enough though.
@@aimeenelson7540 skip this machine and go for a more expensive one.that will last longer and gives you much more enjoyment during the training session.
My resistance is only that high during low SPM's 16-18
This is the row I have. I just started using it to get back in shape and lose some weight. I don't really care about performances, I just need to burn fat and get fitter. I think so far its perfect for me. However I completely agree with the pros and cons on the video.
I have this machine and I can't wait to "outgrow it". I am glad that you put in the pros of the machine as well as the cons. I bought it used for $30 bucks! Thanks for the vid! It will help me to know when I'm ready for a step up.
Absolutely excellent review. Thank you for highlighting the shortcomings: the footplate pivot, the inability to do a full row, the ability to break through the magnet's resistance, everything. 10/10; just gained a fan. Thank you.
I'm 67. Bought this rower about a year ago. For the $183 it's been one of the better purchases I've made.
Get a decent workout, doesn't take up much space and no subscription required.
Glad you like it, Ron!
@@trainingtall By the way I like your 30 minute beginners workout. I use my iwatch to track my calories and heart rate.
Ok, I get it. The budget rower broke just shy of 3 years. I broke down and got the Hydrow wave. HUGE difference. The budget rower did it's purpose. Proved that I could stick with it. Just went over 100K meters on the Hydrow. Much better workout.
Sculled in college 50 years ago and have used Concept 2 intermittently since. Got one of these for less than a third of the price of a Concept 2 and have been more pleased than I thought I would be . Agree that the monitor is useless. Not bad for a retirement machine.
Just ordered this from Amazon and given what you have to say about it I suspect I'll treat it as a beginner rowing machine with a likelihood I'll sell it and pick up a better one once it's clear I'll be continuing rowing. Thanks for the review.
Was delivered three days ago and it is great for what I was looking for a great work out low resistance it you like dial it up and giver so smooth. Four days in still in love... never need a mat underneath at all/ seat is good/ love the single bar easy to move it around mid row// I put a comfy platform Ugg slipper in the foot slot strapped in so
I got it all going on : D
I got mine like new for $125 and already assembled, can't beat that. I'm 65 and 5' 11", so it works perfectly for me. I usually do a 20 minute rowing workout every other day to complement my 11K daily walk. I think for the price it is excellent quality for a beginner and maybe someday I will outgrow into a more professional machine or just use the ones available at the gym. Of course I would love to have a Concept 2 like some people mention, but you're looking at 6-7X the price, which is not what this review is about.
Thanks for your feedback. I'm 45 and just started using this to complement daily walks too!
Good review. I just bought this rower and am putting together while I'm watching your video. From what your saying, this rower is just right for me. I'm 70 yrs. old, so I just need to get my butt moving and not interested in any fancy monitors or bells and whistles. The price was right and it's seems to be of solid construction.
I'm glad!! Awesome!!
Good video! Exactly the reasons why I switched from a Kettler magnetic rower to Concept2 8 years ago - I "outstronged" the magnetic one. Never regreted the money I spent on the Concept2.
Thank u for your honest review on a lower end rower. I got one for $299 and works great
Followed one of your other videos here. Seems like you could utilize that "extra 7 inches" in the rear to mount some fixed footplates 4 inches behind the ones provided which would stretch your stroke and fix the rotation issue without hitting the rear stop. Not a project for everyone, but doable for those on a budget.
Thank you for an HONEST review - warts and all.
Brand new to rowing, I snagged one of these right at the beginning of the stay-at-home measures. I just needed something to keep me moving every day cooped up at home. I’m 6’4” and agree with everything except strangely I find the seat super uncomfortable and can only take it for about 25 minutes at a time. Definitely planning to upgrade to a better one eventually.
Oh interesting! I think an upgrade in the future is a good idea, but for now, I'm sure it gets the job done!
I ordered this just got it today, I'm sending it back tomorrow No resistance. My kids 7 and 11 think it's too easy and a toy. Going to try and find something else.💪
Wow. Seems they could resolve a lot of issues all in the foot rest.
1) Move it back 6 inches.
2) Make it less flimsy, and also immobile.
3) If it won't adjust, then add straps to accommodate different foot sizes.
I'm not even tall but I'm here for the review
I've got one, was ok for a few weeks but quickly out grew it. Upgraded to a water rower after a about a month. Definitely save a bit more and get a better rower. Was a waste of money buying this then having to upgrade nearly straight away.
YES!! More people need to see this comment
Could you please recommend some model? Thanks
@@yarerimartinez1917 Concept 2, period.
Could you expand more on how/why you outgrew it? I'm considering purchasing a rower, but I'm disabled and no longer able to work - so a cheap option is the only possibility. I'm also seriously out of shape, being a walker/wheelchair reliant person - so I'm not sure if your opinion would be different for someone in my situation.
@@lissaw4 the magnetic rower had limited data. Once I started pushing myself further I had no real measurement of progress. When I upgraded the data was much better and I could target certain times and distance.
This is the rower that I have. I am over a foot shorter than you are so I find that I can get a full stroke. On the higher resistance settings I have not achieved the breakthrough feeling. lol. Thank you for helping me feel that I didn't buy a dud.
Just bought this rower and I can agree with all the pros and cons. I'd add that the way the seat is designed that the back lip of the seat rubs the base of my spine pretty badly and has resulted in some "row rash".
I don't feel the burn in my shoulders or my arms with this machine. I feel it more in my legs. I definitely need to upgrade and I had mine on 12 resistance number the highest one.... I have an older model. Thank you for the pros and cons
Do you think that this rowing machine can be 'worth it' if we somehow find a way to block the foot plates so they can't move ? Btw thank you for the very good review of this product.
Just got this for 180 dollars on amazon. Thanks of the review... if this ends up failing for me, I think my kids will probably have fun on the number 1 setting.
It is quiet, works great, and was super easy to install!!! What a great deal!!! I absolutely love it!!! I highly recommend it!!!
Wow fantastic video. Was thinking about buying this but think I would be regretting not getting the Concept 2.
GOOD CALL!
Thanks for the review. Just ordered one to get some exercise during quarantine. From my research, this was the best for the price. Most people buy exercise equipment, use it a few times and that's it. I'm willing to gamble a couple of hundred bucks on my ephemeral good intentions, but not more than that.
Thanks for your honest review! I decided to buy this since I've never tried rowing.
I got this a year ago from someone who was moving and could not being it with them. I'm pretty much use it as you say, as a supplement to Cross Fit and running. I don't use the monitor, but I usually row with a heart rate monitor and I will either row for time or I will use the heart rate monitor estimate of calories.
Hey again!! You did it! Thanks for getting your hands on this rowing machine & sharing this review! I'm quite an amateur, but I absolutely agree with you on many things: comfty seat, silent mechanism, compact model, but also, the monitor is not the best (I need watts!!), steady resistance, yet I would add something else: In my case, being quite shortie, I DID get blisters in my hands!!! :( and as you mentioned, it's rather difficult to get to a full extension or break your own records..keep progressing. Last comment: there's a version with 'foot plates', a double function that allows you to exercise arms and back only...so that gives it a thumb up, I guess! Thanks so much!! =]
Hi Paula,
Unfortunately you will get hand blisters on any ergo because you’re tensing up and gripping it too tight. All you need to do is use your four fingers like a hock over the handle with your thumb relaxed below it - don’t grip it like your life depends on it - keep the wrists flat so you have a straight line running from your knuckles all the way up your arms. All when coming forward go for the “piano fingers” where you loosen and just lift your finger tips during the recovery to help relax your hands. Blisters are common in rowing and this helps in the exact same way forcing you to relax that grip and hey presto, you should never get blisters no matter how much power you put down on the drive 😎
Ps: this also helps relax the shoulders and in turn helps the lower back a little.
Stay Safe
Love your input here, Paula! Thanks for sharing - and I agree with Steve, try to loosen your grip when you row :) Hope you have a great day!
Due to the covid house confinement I have purchased a senior bike trainer and am now going to acquire a rowing machine to maintain body movement and fitness, thanks for your helpful clips
This convinced me to go with a water rower that would allow me to have proper form, ended up with a MaxKare water rower that was $359 (mid January 2020). It has the 500m split, spm, and all that. We'll see if I made the right choice.
NICE!
You got an update?
So did you
I am happy enough with it, especially considering the price point.
Thank you!
Thank you for your thorough review. I had ordered one but after watching your video, I have canceled my order. Thank you very much.
Thanks for this review. I got one of these as a Christmas gift in 2019 and it's been a good intro to rowing for me. I enjoy rowing and I intend to use this machine until I can justify an upgrade (mainly just proving that I'll stick with it in the longer-term). What would you suggest for a higher-quality but still inexpensive machine? My guess is that by the end of the year, there will be a bunch of people selling lightly used equipment that they got during the lockdown and then didn't really use, so I might look to upgrade fall/winter 2020. Just found your channel last week and the content is excellent. Thank you.
Oh, I was also going to ask if you had tips for using this to get a good workout. I followed your 40 min calorie burn (18, 20, 22 spm) and had it on resistance 6. It was good mental discipline and made me look at my form closer, but my heart-rate peaked only at 120, which didn't seem very high to me at all. Do you have a suggestion for maximizing the benefit?
I'm 6-3 and I like this rower. I use it every night.
Thanks, I am so glad I saw your video prior to getting one.
If you have access to an angle grinder plus a mig welder you could rectify the obvious design faults or just save time and buy a good second hand Concept2 ModelC or newer? 😎
Sounds like a project many would most likely pass on! ;)
Thanks for the honest review. I'm getting fat during quarantine but this video has taught me that I need to spend a little bit more for a better rowing machine. Sub and Like added!
Thanks a lot! Glad you liked the vid, too!
What a great review! I’m a rowing newbie and have been using your 30 min workout (20, 22 ... 28 and down from there) for a bit now (perfect for me!). I’m 5’8” and noticed I couldn’t bend forward as far as you do in your video as I row along with you. Your arms went way further out than mine do. As I was watching this review it all made sense! No wonder my wrists curl at the start of each pull! I don’t feel as if I get the whole stretch. Other than that I love this thing. I’m a mom of teen boys, busy but not working out until I looked down after 6 months in quarantine (well, kind’a) and had excess around my waist. Aargh ... hate it. I love the body that rowing supposedly gives you, so I bought this one and here I go! Wish me luck 😆. I hope I can get enough of a workout with a 3/4 stroke 🤨. Thanks for doin’ this!
I'm as beginner as they get, and I've tried to sit on a bunch of rowers, not just this one. I'm 6'1". The truly biggest problem is, like mentioned, the extension at the end of the stroke. I started off on a Concept2 at my work gym, and nothing else feels right. It's the one biggest issue, like I'm cheating myself with that 3/4 stroke.
Thanks for explaining! I couldn’t figure out my magnetic rower for the loft of me
Really really well put together review. Excellent job
Thanks for the review ☺ I'm 55 and have a bum knee and tricky back. I'm looking for low impact cardio and if one day can out muscle this machine, I owe you a smoothie or beer lol
Great review! To track intensity I measure my heart rate for a given time to monitor progress.
Excellent review, thanks. I'm a novice at rowing, 6' 2" tall. Unfortunately, I bought this rower before seeing this review.
As I studied videos on good rowing form, I encountered the compression limitations, and then found this video which confirmed the problem. Also, I didn't think the limited computer would be a problem, but I am finding it to be a minor nuisance -- and it is quite hard to read it while rowing.
Otherwise, I am impressed with the build quality for the price. I'll keep it for now, but if I stick with rowing, I'll definitely look at an upgrade down the line.
You recommended spending a little more and getting a better machine. I'd appreciate recommendations. Thank you!
Bro, I just watched this video, you know all. Amazing review. Thanks
Keeping me fit and saving me money 🤑 🔥
This one was on my radar, but I was concerned about durability and lack of distance count, so I spent the $$$ and bought the Concept 2 instead.
SMART MOVE!
Good video. You gave every reason why not to buy this particular magnetic rower.
Great review. Once I saw you could not get over your ankles, that was all I needed to see. No sense in getting a rower that only lets you do 3/4 of a stroke.
a 45 degree cut piece of wood could possibly fix the foot pedal issue. Just wedge it behind the foot plate.
Would the wood start to move once your foot starts pressing on the foot pedal?
there's a strap slot below...i just used straps with velcro...solved the the pedal issue
Thanks for the review but dont forget, at 6-8 you are not the average Jo. I’m « only » 6-2 and I can do complete stroke with this rower.
Gaétan Bergeron I’m 5-0 and I can also😀I love mines🌹❤️
How? It seems the issue would be in the length of your arms. The foot holsters are only a few inches back from the handles starting position. That seems like it would prevent anyone from properly stacking the knees over the feet and having the arms fully extended out in front of you at the start/end of each row.
Thank you very much for this review! I totally understand the pros and cons of this particular machine I almost bought this in Amazon. I will find something else that suits my needs.
Hi, do you mind tell me why did you decide this was not suitable for your needs?
Thanks for a super comprehensive and straight to the point review!
Not a fan of this machine. Long one, sorry. When I wore out my Stairmaster, I decided to change my everyday machine and looked into rowing. I was not sure if I would like it since I have not the best knees and could not really try them out much due to COVID, so I tired this one. At first was great. Quiet and got a pretty good work out, but agree that you do not get a full row (and I am only 5'10"), as I learned when I got an upgraded machine, but that happened later. Anyway, first issue I had was with the foot press, but not the plastic piece itself, but the bolt that holds it to the unit. It snapped. About 2 weeks of use. Got it replaced but took about 10 days to get. Started using again and about 2-3 weeks later, all of the sudden, no tension. Few calls to customer service, videos back and forth, needed a replaced volute spring. So was in pieces on my floor for 2-3 weeks waiting for that. When I got it, It was faulty the day I installed it and needed to wait for a 3rd. "Rush" processing on another one, or about 12 days, and I replaced it AGAIN. By this point I at least knew I liked rowing and got on the waiting list for a Concept2 hoping it would last until I could buy one. Wrong. 3 weeks later the tension became very weak and uneven. Further, during that time I occasionally heard what sounded like small pieces of plastic falling in the unit itself. At this point I was done and threw it away. Admittedly, I used it 5 days a week for 30 minutes and pushed as hard as I could. But I am not an athlete and new to rowing. I am NOT working the machine so hard I should only get 2-3 months of use of (had for about 5-6 but was waiting for parts or diagnostic for 2-3 as well). Anyway, if you are only going to lightly use it a couple days a week, it may be ok. But if you are going to use it, I do not recommend. Sure, the Concept2 cost 3 times as much, but if it lasts a year, it will already be a better value. And as for the full row, first time I used it I was amazed how much better the work out was, did not even think I was going to make it the 30 minutes. Full rowing motion really works you so much more.
Thanks for your advice and expertise. I got this model as a gift from my children, so I will keep it and use it. It will be an addition to my daily fitness regimen, which includes a weight workout and rucksacking. My goal is overall fitness, so this rower will be just fine. You've helped me use it as best as possible. Dana San Diego
I'm new to rowing. I've been watching your videos and am really geared up to start. Can you recommend a decent rowing machine for a beginner that won't break the bank?
Have you found any good ones? I'm also looking for one!
This machine will not duplicate the actual rowing mechanics, but as a beginner, you will find that you can work harder than you ever thought possible. If you plan on rowing with other people, this will cramp your form and require reteaching.
@@stevenhook4118 Can you recommend one budget rowing machine? I'm looking on buying an ENCHANFIT rowing machine because I can't afford right now the high tier ones. Please do advise!
Hi, I was thinking of buying this Sunny rower but changed my mind after watching this video. Which rower do you recommend for under $400? Thanks. Happy New Year!
Do you have a video on the best budget rower? I miss rowing and would do join your 20 day thing but without access to one I can't. Unless concept 2 does a payment plan.
greettings from Costa rica Hello Training Tall, Is the Proform Rower 750R worth it (male 5.11 / 180pounds). Appreciate your your guide and help as we do not have many options down here. Best regards
I need to strengthen my middle back to help lift my shoulders back. Do you think this rower would help me do that? I'm torn between getting this one to save money and getting the Concept 2, which will take some of my savings.
What a quality review. This is the content we want.
Thank you!
Hmmm. I was actually going to buy this off Amazon and now I'm more reluctant then ever. I used to row all the time at the gym, but well, that's not happening. You said that for a couple hundred dollars more you'd get a better machine. I'm wondering what that would be, and is it quiet. I'm the one you spoke for in the video, I live in an apt, want something that doesn't take up a HUGE amount of space, and is quiet. What would you suggest? Thanks.
Awesome review! Very authentic and honest.
Have you used the Hydrow?!? I’m REALLY interested in it because of the fact it could give me the similar feeling of rowing with people and on a team again. I used to row competitively in college and it’s been a year. I just came across Hydrow so I’d like to know your opinion and thoughts on it. Thank you!
Thanks for the review! Got a Stamina Air Rower but with similar features. Now I wish I had gone with Concept2. Not getting the full strokes with mine.
Same. For me at least, I've never used a machine. I did my research and found that this was the best cheapest option - according to the Amazon reviews comparing it to the Concept 2. I plan on selling this when the Concept 2 comes available again. But for now, it's a good enough machine, no regrets to make sure I like it, and I just follow along with Austin's videos. Because the monitor is crap. At least it's air not magnetic!
I really want to try that one out!
@@trainingtall Seems like the same dimensions of the Sunny. I love the flywheel over the magnetic pull. It's really light. If I could change the monitor and the seat I probably would keep it. The seat sucks, no cushion, the first longer stretch (30 mins) I did, my butt was dead.
I am a very short female, only 5 feet tall. I am looking to get a rowing machine up to $350.00. I never had tried any rowing machine. I would like to lose some weight. Your review is excellent!!! Is this Sunny Fitness better than Fitness Reality 1000 Plus? Would this one like the Sunny would prevent a full stroke as well? Or would you recommend another one in my budget? Thanks
I do agree that the computer is not as useful as the high end rowing machine.
I strongly recommend to buy it if you are just looking for a low budget rowing machine. It is not very fancy; however, I feel like I am rowing a boat on the water when I row on this machine.
Just bought one. Not trying to be rowing champ or anything just need to lose weight 👍🏻
it work well for that?
This is an amazing review.. thank you!
I bought this as my first rower. I was disappointed that it has such a short stroke. My sister has one of these also. Compared to mine, her resistance settings feel much heavier. My level 8 is like her level 5. So they are apparently not manufactured with much consistency. One other thing that bothers me is the bolts on the foot plates keep backing out. I can not really afford or justify a $1,200 rower. But I would like to have a better one than this. It sure beats my fan bike!
Same here. Mine has almost no resistance even at level 8, making it almost pointless to use. Very disappointed.
Am I doing something wrong? The highest resistance feels like nothing, it's definitely more than the first few levels but it still doesn't feel hard at all. Is it because it's magnetic? What type do I want for more of an actual strength work out?
Great review - I was looking at getting one of these but decided against it last minute. My workplace are loaning me an Oartec Slider Air Rower which is fantastic, waiting to get a Concept 2 once they are back in stock in the UK. Totally get what you say about Magnetic Rowers, i'm new to rowing and tried a magnetic rower a few weeks ago but really found it too easy resistence wise and didnt feel like I got a good workout ...
Good call! Best to wait, for sure! I'm envious you get to rent that rower.. I've wanted to try it!!
@@trainingtall its an OLD machine but still rock solid, I might actually buy it off them as they have tons of C2s !
This was a brilliant review, helped me a lot thanks
edit: long story short -- A plastic wheel guiding the belt broke in just months of moderate use with my sunny machine. I tried a concept 2 at the gym today and I was blown away. Feels like a much more even pull and better on my joints I knew there must be a fairly significant difference from how people talked about it but it's night and day. --
old thoughts below
I will say I got a SF-RW5801 model (not sure how many differences there are, main I can identify is 16 resistance levels instead of 8) and at 6' I feel like I'm getting a full range of motion. Hower my hips are a little tight still so I'm not reaching crazy far at my pelvis and my legs are long for my height so I that might make my upper body reach more like 5'9 person than 6'. The foot straps still are not adjustable which is questionable for sure but I've been rowing without straps per your core work suggestions and shoeless which might help with foot positioning on the pedal as well (per the rotation). The higher resistances I doubt average people would have to worry about out muscling (my back has always been my only confident muscle group and while the rower works the legs it seems like connecting your hands to your feet through your back is the hardest part)
The poor info is very sad though I will admit. I can still tell I'm making beginner gains just from stroke count at higher intensity and just feel but I definitely think I'll want to borrow other rowers to set real bench marks for myself. It's also possible it's very hard for an experienced rower to go to this from other machines. I haven't really rowed before so while I identified the sticking point it didn't jump out at this problematic annoying thing for me.
Basically just echoing your thoughts, if someone is going to be a very serious rower they probably don't want a magnet machine but just adding in that 6' people can get full strokes on a similar model, shoeless can help with the pedals, and they have other cheap models that might have more resistance (not sure if it's just the same max resistance but more sliding options)
thanks for all the videos
Hips got reasonable flexibility and now I'm capable of reaching well past where the handle gets stopped at the start and am rowing constantly at the full resistance. This can probably be reasonable for someone that is very out of shape or older but feels insufficient once you're starting to get anywhere. No idea what my benchmarks are since it doesn't have stats but did 22.5 strokes per minute for 20 minutes at the full resistance feet out and that's still a good work out, and intervals can definitely get me a great work out but yeah, would prefer a better erg a lot.
Final update hopefully lol. In the last weeks I had adjusted my hip / knee positioning a bit because my form was still trash I realized which was impacting my knee and the way the machine starts with full tension probably exacerbates potential knee issues. I shortened my stroke and my knee was happier for it. Shortly after inside the machine one of the belts is just guided on a piece of plastic. That plastic wheel guiding the belt broke in just months of moderate use. I tried a concept 2 at the gym today and I was blown away. I knew there must be a fairly significant difference from how people talked about it but it's night and day.
Hi! @Training Tall, which rower do you think could be great to help doing really good abs and to tone and strengthen arms and legs? Does this Sunny you are showing on this video could work fine for that? (I'm not tall at all).... I want to take the correct decision as they are really expensive in Mexico, and if I'm going to spend good money I really want to get one that really works. Thank you!
I outstronged mine on day one. Resistance way too light for an intermediate rower and above.
The LG screen is crap but it got me fit. I don’t have NBA player problems tho. Short legs.
its works well for you? i wanna gift this to my mom, and she has shorts legs too
Wondering if you could place something underneath the footplates to help perform a longer stroke?
A very nice review! It's almost perfect!
wife got me one because covid closed our pool. this plus apple fitness got me hooked on rowing. i cracked both of the original foot rests. the design is awful the straps you use to lock down your feet wrap around this thin plastic part of the foot rest and it cracks very easy. then last night the whole magnetic drive system destroyed itself mid workout. my wife was so mad (she got it for me but had just finished telling me how much she liked it and was on day 13 of rowing everyday) so I called my local life fitness distributer and took the last floor model HX rower. much better and the sounds a water rower makes are so soothing.
I need a really good quality rowing machine. Like the one Frank Underwood used in House of cards. What is a really good rowing machine that is in between $800 to $1,000 ? One that's I think it's called crew rowing where you can extend your shoulders out more if you get my drift. Thank you for your detailed video I've taken competitive rowing and I've out maxed the one I have so I'm going to get a quality one that's easy to use but has high resistance
Im so anoyed i didnt see your video before i bought magnetic rower. Im so dissapointed as i feel almost no resistance (i mean low) great video and advice. Defo gonna get air or water one
I’m 57 and 255lbs. I just need to move …at this point anything will work
Thanks!!! These are on sale right now for a killer deal. And, my main reason for, specifically, looking at your review, is that I have a 6'5" teen. And to see you actually rowing this machine, i was sure it wasn't for us as a family. Thank you for honesty!!
Great review. Thorough and engaging. Good job!
This is incredibly useful. What do you think of the Schwinn Crewmaster? I'm wondering if it has this issue of not allowing for a full stroke.
I'm a former c2 owner (sold in moving sale) and current sunny owner (bought at a heavy discount), and this review is spot on
Of course, had I watch it first, I would not have bought the sunny, my main complaint being out-muscling the magnetic resistance as identified on the review (and I am not D1 rower, just a random, normal height/build 50yr old).
I know this is a year old…but we’re you aware that the petal straps can actually thread through the second set of slots below where the straps are now? Didn’t see anyone point it out. Maybe I missed something…
I bought one that looks like this one but with the name Yosuda on it. It has a high weight limit and I figured it would be a good starter machine to see if I like it. The magnetic flywheel is indeed ultra quiet so you can watch tv or listen to music.
@training tall,
Do you think this rower is good for someone who just wants the benefits of rowing exercise? Like instead of an exercise bike. But not for training whatsoever.
Hey Austin, need an honest unbiased opinion: does the WaterRower provide good resistance compared to the C2? I've read comments saying that the WaterRower provides poor resistance regardless of how hard or fast a person rows. Just wanna make sure i dont spend $1,200 only to end up disappointed. Thanks.
The resistance on WaterRower is comparable to C2, anyone telling you otherwise doesn’t know how to apply PRESSURE per stroke
Great. a sensible, consise review...thanks!
Which one Is better betwen this AND XTerra ERG200... I'm begining
Is this easy on the knees? I tried bikes and elliptical and my right knee just cannot take it. Figured the rower would be even lower impact with with high cardio.
I recently ordered a magnetic rower similar to this, the on sale price was impossible for me to pass up. After seeing this video I'm concerned about the 3/4 stroke problem. I'm short at 5'1" so I wonder if I might get closer to a full stroke? The last thing I want is to put in time working out and not get the full benefit. I'm mostly a beginner rower so I'm not worried about resistance. (used the c2 at the gym at most 30min maybe once a month) I plan to use this to supplement maybe a circuit to my treadmill and spin bike which get heavy daily use. Will be giving the new mag rower try when I get it all set up and find out.
I have a similar model (SF-RW5987 I believe) and at 6' I feel like I can get a pretty full stroke. I am rowing feet out without shoes (maybe shoeless is bad?) and that can help with strap positioning at least for larger feet and I think it helps with the foot rotation the demonstrator was having. I don't currently have the full hip rotation just from tight hips and that might end up being an issue on stroke length but currently I don't feel impeded by the machine and at 5'1 I can't imagine it being an issue unless SF-RW5987 is markedly different from this one.
Being a "shorty" (5'8"), is it possible I might be able to complete more of a full stroke? My thighs and arms are not as long as yours.
Potentially, but you still wouldn't be able to get a full stroke entirely!
If it helps, I'm 5'3'' and I feel like I get a full store.
I’m 5’5 and I feel like I get a full row.
What's the point of getting a rower if you can't get a full stroke
Very well done review.