GREAT review! I love the Concept Model D. Bulletproof, light, easy maintenance, smooth feel. The adjustability is awesome, and the ErgData app has been improved by leaps and bounds over the past 6 months. The WOD that integrates into the PM5 with one touch of lets me start super fast. PM5's connectivity with a variety of heart rate monitors is top notch. I have no complaints.
I'm just a beginner at rowing and during my research of rowers I came across how awesome the concept2 rower is however because I am a beginner and needed something to keep me engaged I chose the Nordictrack RW900 with the free 1yr subscription because the Hydrow rower was costly and subscription was twice as much as the ifit subscription. I hope my decision will benefit me but as I said I really needed the interactive classes and rowing down rivers to keep me coming back and not giving up. I have already lost 90lbs with diet alone and now adding exercise to lose the last 90lbs and rowing seems to be the exercise I like the most. Thanks for your videos, they are really helpful.
Used a Concept 2 for years, sold my old warrior when I moved from NJ to Florida, looking into another rower now, sounds like the Concept is still the best choice.Great video, thanks.
I've had a Concept II Model B for over three decades. It's the second piece of home exercise equipment I've purchased, the first being one of the original Nordic Track - PSI legacy skiers. I discovered the Concept II at a hotel fitness center when I was at a conference and loved it. I think it was about $600 when I bought it in the mid 80's, so about $100 more than the Nordic Track that I had purchased a few years earlier. It is heavy, one piece, and has wooden footplates but they have three position settings. :-) And it has an older computer that has all of the basics. It came with a choice of two seat styles, the default being the one that they still have available on their web site, but decided I liked the older Model A seat better and exchanged it. It is narrower from front to back, with deeper impressions for the ischial tuberosities and a wide cutout for the tailbone, and it doesn't chafe my butt and thighs when I'm rowing. I'm not a heavy user (but I am a bit heavy), I go through periods of being active with my home exercise equipment and periods of not using it at all, but I've really liked it.
A note on the Sunny Fitness Phantom Hydro Rower: The monitor does not track distance/pace accurately and does not even claim to do so. It measures your strokes at 8m per stroke whatever power you put into it. Customer service told me "the monitor is not intended to accurately measure pace or distance". If that doesn't matter to you, it's a decent machine, but you won't be able to track anything useful apart from time.
I bought a Concept2 last fall, but had to sell it when my dog got really sick. Back on the waiting list, but my sweet pup is well worth it. The shortage of rowers since the pandemic meant that I got full price for mine, which was awesome. I debated getting something else, but have decided to wait. 💜
@@rubyreddress4980 make sure that they did not drop you from the waitlist. Their system unsubscribed me, so that means I would have never received the “buy” email. Luckily, customer service was responsive and could confirm that I was on the waitlist.
@@bombasticnonsense4247 thank you! I did finally get one through a different distributor. I noticed today that Rogue fitness had them in stock as well!
Pistachio is my favorite. The Sunny Hydraulic is such a waste of money, you'd almost be better off spending the $86 on cake, and getting your workout walking to CVS to pick up your metformin. Great vid. Nothing beats the start/end position of your hands on the Concept2. If my work gym didn't have a couple, I'd just buy one.
Just starting rowing last week, I wish I would've seen this video first, ended up getting a Sunny Magnetic :\ we live and learn. However, now I know that I'll be getting a Concept 2 next time. Thanks for this great video! I love coffee flavored ice cream!
Strawberry icecream. I went waterrower thanks to the sound... It's silly, but the sound motivates me and makes all the difference for my wife using it too. Most of your subscribers will be too young, but sometimes I just put on the theme from Banacek and go for a row. But most days I use it "for real". BTW, your books and videos have been key for my rate of progress.
Chocolate chip cookie dough. Man, such a hard decision. I need one for my apt, but I need one very quiet for my downstairs neighbor. It's mostly to rehab my knee after surgery and strengthen my legs. I used to use a water rover at the gym and it was such an amazing experience.
Thanks for this ranking Austin, it's very informative. Just curious, have you tried any of the dual handle rowers that are meant to simulate actual oars, like the Fitness Reality 4000MR? What do you think of dual handle rowers in general? Thanks!
Concept 2 - Low maintanence & Battery powered monitor - Light - Compact for storage - Durable - Good feel and not that loud - Great resistance - Priced well, and the used market for these is awesome to save some money. nothing else really ticks these boxes, especially when you stick a tablet on one running the C2 app the display becomes an awesome feature.
Butter pecan all the way unless a cherry dilly bar is present. My husband has always wanted a rowing machine but never looked into getting one “that I know of.” He is 6-4” and I am 5-6”. The rowers with water sound very appealing to me and look nicer. Here are my questions: 1. How much of a hassle is it to change the water resistance back and forth for diff levels of users or needs? 2. Is rowing a good exercise for losing belly fat? 3. Would rowing be a good exercise to do after a knee replacement? I hope I get some response here! Please let me know your thoughts.
The Concept 2 is (still) the rower for me, 4yrs and counting. It’s built like a tank- professional grade for sure. Replacement parts, should you ever need them, are very reasonably priced. The PM5, though smaller than I would like, is very powerful… i.e. the force-curve display, offering on the fly feedback on the quality of your rowing strokes. And there are no add’l subscriptions you have to pay for… I really like that.
Julia do u have experience with this rower , Austin mentioned he has not used it but features etc were good. I read review on Amazon that the tank leaked for someone not sure if they made it right or not😱
@@tammy1190 oh dang!! I hope the person with the leaky tank got their money back or something 😬 Maybe some free Flextape lol? Me myself, I have only used Concept2s. A couple of athletes who I work with have water rowers, but not the Sunny ones so I can’t comment.
I picked the Concept2. Factors involved were the open eco-system, it talks to my Garmin and Strava platforms. If all of the tech on it dies I can still use my watch to record the rowing and the machine itself continues to function. It is an industry-standard and commercial grade piece of equipment. I have used it with the IFIT software that came with my treadmill and even though the ifit is a closed ecosystem I could run both the concept2 and ifit software on my phone at the same time and project it to a Chromecast big screen. I think the IFIT workouts are good but they are indexed poorly and there do not seem to be too many of them. I took delivery of the Concep2 Nov 4th 2020 and have logged 595,690 meters. I could not be happier with my purchase. Thank you so much for your guidance.
Just received my Concept 2 today, my first experience with rowing other than going fishing in a rental rowboat. Looking forward to the longevity of this machine.
Super informative, thank you! I’m a 59 year old still athletic post college crew rower, want ing to get back into it far from water. Form matters. Resistance matters. Sound is great!! Let me feel it! Thank you. As I peruse craigslist, this has been a huge help, kept me from making some unadvised mistakes. I’d love to hear more from you:). Thanks!
After more than a few hours of looking for a real review/comparison on rowing machines i finally found one thats worth my time, thank you and great job!
I recently purchased the Sunny Obsidian Surge and take issue with your negative review. While I'm not an experienced rower, I do know an excellent full body workout when I feel it. Sure, the foot plates pivot when they shouldn't, but the resistance feels authentic and the build is solid. I really like the sound of the water resistance and the whole unit can be stored on end to save space when not in use. Thanks for providing your input, but I feel you need to give this machine a more thorough review...
I've had a Concept2 since 1999. Mine was a Model C. I replaced the handle on it because I liked the newer handles more, and I had to replace the PM2 monitor on it due to a malfunction. My present monitor is a PM3 which I have been using for several years. It does not have all of the wireless features of the PM5, but still can be connected to a phone or computer by wire. Without a doubt, the Concept2 is the gold standard for rowing machines. I have also been involved in organizing indoor rowing competitions where all of the machines were Concept2. These are the machines used for training by the best rowers in the world. My neighbour used her Concept2 while rowing to a silver medal at the Olympics in London.
Would love to see where the Aviron rower would land. I’m hoping it’s an A. It uses the hybrid air / magnetic resistance like Nordictrack but Aviron swears it’s not a rebrand.
Have had my water rower for a year now could of got the gold standard Concept 2 . Knowing that I will never be in competition the height and sound of the water rower with 4 resistance levels was better for my purpose. What I know is it will plant me tight to the ground after some workouts . And by following you I have approved a lot . Your right about the monitor however it tells me what I’m doing. Thank for being there for use all. By the way never meet any ice cream I never liked
I’ve used Concept 2s at the gym on and off for years. Always got a good workout, although I dreaded any row over 15 minutes. I pulled the trigger on a Hydrow last month after seeing the wait list for a Concept 2. I was legitimately concerned about the cost. I needn’t have been. I’ve been rowing with it for a couple of weeks now and can honestly say that I look forward to every row. That might not sound like a big deal, but my looking forward to cardio training is akin to most people looking forward to a dentist appointment. Or a dog looking forward to a vet visit. No offense to dentists or vets.
@@Lapp1998 Mine took about 4 in December. I hear that some people have been having faster delivery times when ordering from Best Buy. It might be worth checking them out, if you didn’t get a better price from Hydrow directly.
Mint chocolate chip... this is a great list. I first tried rowing on a waterrower in OTF classes. Loved the fluid feel of the resistance. I then got a NordicTrack after covid hit. I totally agree with your comments on NordicTrack. Did not like the feel of resistance compared to the waterrower. The iFit part is pretty nice but could be more engaging. Also you need a lot of space to do some of the HIIT workouts.
I use the concept 2 at the gym, and the water rower at home. Quality is the same, but the rowing experience is different. Maybe like a road bike versus a mountain bike. I love em both.
Butter pecan, waiting on the Ergatta now. The platform looks amazing and motivating for me. Plus I can store it in my living room without it standing out
The absence of RowPerfect is a travesty. Every D1 program in the US uses them. Expensive as hell but with or without the piston to simulate boat roll, dynamic ergs are so much more like actual rowing.
I have a waterrower, it’s hard to compare my 2k times to an air rower (apparently 7 min on concept2 would be the equivalent of 6:20 min on my water one?) also did a marathon on it last week and one of the wheels cracked clean in half at the end 😂 thank god for your rowing exercises for when you have no machine!
All you need to know about the C2 is from the resale market: Every used C2 erg is almost the retail price. You might get one for a hundred off if you're lucky, but the things hold onto their resale value almost entirely. That says a lot about quality and construction. And a friend got the Sunny magnetic for free and I tried it out once. Holy cow, what a horrible device. It's not really rowing so much as it is strenuous pulling. There's no rhythm, smoothness or efficiency to the machine. I've used the C2 since I was a rower in high school, and sitting on the sunny was like going from a Ferrari to an old Ford.
Sounds like buying a Herman Miller office chair. Just spend the extra. They have 12 years of warranty and the resale value is very high. So total cost of ownership is much lower than a cheap ass chair. And it's the best chair for your back. I see the C2 like a Herman Miller of Rowing equipment.
Boysenberry I have a water rower, it looks great and sounds great. I do have a bit of an issue with the footplates being so close and a bit high, it's harder to get into a comfortable catch position. If I upgrade I may look at the 2ater rower with a monorail. The plates seem 2 inches wider and an inch lower which I think would make all the difference.
Bought concept 2 after my deployment couple years ago. The rower worked with sand, rain and low maintenance on it so I knew having one at home it would last forever
I like vanilla ice cream with pineapple topping . . . Oh and I bought a Pro Form rower from Costco earlier this year as my first rower. It lives up to your review but for a first rower, it's not bad. Using your videos for guidance I'm now rowing 4-5 times a week and have been doing so consistently for the last 2 months. I feel better and I'm really starting to notice a difference in my cardio and muscles. If I continue this regiment for a year, I've promised myself that next year I will make the investment in a Concept 2 (maybe sooner). Thanks for putting together such great videos!
Hello All. Thanks for the video and the comments. I'm new to rowing and wondering if anyone has seen or tested the Kettler Axos Rower 2.0? It is magnetic and cost aroud USD 700 here Indonesia. Unfortunately I can't find other rowing machines here except for the Concept2 with PM5 which costs around USD 2000 and that Kettler Axos 2.0. Thanks everyone and happy rowing!
My favorite ice cream is Ben and Jerry's NON DAIRY Cherry Garcia. So good. Anyway Austin how concerned are you about the Nordictrack rower? I was going to get one but what you said in the video now has me questioning it. I would love a hydrow but they are pretty pricey. What do you think? Because i want the interactive workouts on the screen to keep me motivated. Thank you!
Worked out at gym with Concept2 for years. Moved to a different gym that only has Matrix Rowers. Never looked back. Don't need to add anymore to my gym noise experience than already exits and the Matrix Rower is essentially silent. Enjoy the seat experience better on the Matrix as it has more spring and is thicker for more comfort for 30+ minute rows. Handle is easily better/ergonomic on the Concept2 though for sure. Would like to try the handle on the Octane Ro though as well as that rower's experience. If you have ANY interest at all on more resistance type of training (less cardio/more muscle building), the Concept2 can't hold a candle to the Matrix Rower. Try level 10 on a Matrix Rower - you're muscles will be screaming in no time. Much better machine over a Concept 2 if you are interested in supplementing your rowing cardo with muscle building movements on the higher magnetic levels of the Matrix. Oh, and those close foot plates on the Concept 2, just not for me as my psoas muscles, etc are often contracted and the wider foot plates allow for more range of motion/full strokes. I didn't know how important and helpful that was for me until I spent months on a Matrix. Also, the build quality feels great on a Matrix versus the Concept 2's I spent probably 10 years on. Very solid and stable. The only others I would like to try would be the Octane Ro and the Technogym...which of course will not be silent like the Matrix which I personally enjoy. Anyone interested in a Concept 2 should compare to the Xebex.
I bought the waterrower. I have an industrial décor in my house and felt it would look nicer with the rest of my stuff or rather, the concept 2 would just look out of place. It was simply an aesthetic choice. I agree that the water rower should have been ranked an A simply because it is beautiful. Form and function are both important.
Vanilla (French first, vanilla bean second)! Where would you rank the Aviron? Saw a more recent video with your review of the updated machine and would appreciate where you’d rank this one.
Very helpful to hear how and why you ranked them. Wish you had included more, but I'll bet others in the $500-$700 would range fall into your C-D category. Also, it would have been helpful if you had said more about differences in the physical experience of using these rowers and if any of them might be actually more prone to creating back problems. Pistachio!
Black Raspberry Chip from Graeter’s! 🍦 Recently finished your ebook & it was so helpful and informative!! The breakdown of how to row, how to lose fat and how to make life long changes….truly life-changing! Thanks Austin!!👍🏼
The beauty of the C2 stuff is their longevity and consistency. Before it shutdown I used a model E the company fitness center. They never did any maintenance so I sprung for the $60 parts. After new bungees, chain, and seat rollers, worked like new. Last September got a model D for home. A couple weeks ago picked up a C in good shape at a yard sale. Freed the stuck links, cleaned and lubed the chain, tightened the bungees. Feel is almost the same, most difference is the handle. Basically except for the differences in the PM’s with only minor maintenance these will last a lifetime, or more
I would really love to hear where the city go rower would end up on this tier list. I need that quiet swish sound in my house as opposed to the chainsaw sound of the concept.
I bought an old air rower with adjustable footplate and good info monitor for cheap and avoid those bad ones on amazon, all because your video, thank you!
I am interested in subscribing to your guided workouts after I get a rowing machine. When I look on the concept 2 site, I don’t see a model D anymore. Is it something else now? Or Is there a new top choice you have?
I went and bought a Concept 2. I had been using one at my local gym, and found the computer to be just wonderful, but after watching Austin's video, I was convinced that if it were good enough for pro rowers, then maybe I should get one for home.
Hi Austin. Great review. Did you try the pro form R 10 Rower? Seems to be there higher end rower Versus the one sold at Costco. I can get a new one for $500. However, I’m scared about the strap now. Thanks for your comment.
What are your thoughts on the Horizon Oxford 6? Im looking at getting one due to it being about the same price as the Concept 2 but virtually no sound while you row. (Temporary New Year Sale)
O live the C2 but... the noise. As you've said, if in a condo or apt... but I don't think it is appreciated how nice and quiet a magnetic rower is in the house. You can work out at any time. Working out during meetings isn't an issue.
Java chip - thanks, you saved me from buying a piece of equipment that may or may not get used, but doesn't provide a good experience in any case. My priorities: good workout, comfortable use, quietness, quality build, space. Haven't decided how much I like the pro-level coached workouts that come with membership subscriptions, but for sure dislike monthly subscription costs. So I love the Hydrow but would likely buy the Concept2. That's probably what I used at the gym a long time ago, and I liked it just fine.
Like the sound of the Concept 2. Trust it doesn’t come with a forced subscription to some training program like some of the others with iFit etc. Am I correct about that?
Looking to get into rowing machine. Great video that really helps. However, you top choice is the concept 2. These days it is at $2400 in Canada. This is crazy. For $1100 we could get a BATTIFE Water Rowing Machine. Any experience with that machine?
First, favorite ice-cream is vanilla. Second, thanks for laying this out. We are just starting to look at rowers and I have been eyeing the Concept 2 as well as the Aviron. Any experience with the Aviron?
I’m on a waiting list for the Concept2 after watching this video. Thanks for the advice. I’d say Concept2 also has a podcast for workouts. Favorite Ice Cream: Walmart makes Fudge Tracks with rivals Rocky Road.
Have you ever tried an Echelon magnetic rower? I am looking at one because I need something quiet and I already have an Echelon spin bike, which I love. My bike doesn't have a screen, as I've heard those can easily malfunction. I'd go with the same for the rower - the screen-free option. I do love a Concept 2, it's what we used in college for crew training, but I just can't have that noise level in our house.
Awesome, but what is your opinion on the Housefit rowing machine on Amazon? OR the CIrcuit Fitness? I am looking for one that is easy to use for me and my husband.
Nobody: Austin: my mother is a Concept 2 machine. Austin makes great videos and I've not tried the Concept 2 (C2) so it might be the greatest machine out there but I would not be surprised if Austin were sponsored by them. Not that I have any issue with this, just believe that if he does have any affiliation with the company that he should disclose it, in his videos. Also German Dark Chocolate with a little salt mixed in.
Yeah stay away from the RW900. The monitor is too big and heavy for bolt/hinge pin it is supported by. It’s easy to strip the bolt when tightening down and after four weeks you get another bolt that will break just as easily. If you don’t tighten enough the monitor will droop down and if it’s too tight the bolt will break causing it to fall down. I’m a concept 2 guy
Great video. I've only used rowers at the gym. I have always preferred Concept 2 and I like the sound. I grew up rowing a small boat on a lake so the fan reminds me of the wind. I did have a gym that had water rowers and it was still enjoyable but I missed the sound of the Concept. Magnetic didn't do it for me. It is also difficult to find Concepts used, people keep them. I've not tried the Hydrow but would not like the subscription issue.
Thanks for this comparison, Austin - I really appreciate that you don't sugarcoat. (note: if you group the text and image, they will move together) Oh - favorite ice cream flavor - mint chip.
Can you use regatta software somehow on concept 2? Great video by the way, I’m in the waiting list for Concept2.... but was seriously considering the Assault Elite rower as it’s in stock in UK but software support and monitor seem to be letting it down... looks like amazing quality though... think I’m gonna wait for the C2...
Yes I have the app on both my iPad and iPhone. You use the app to pair it with the PM5 monitor that comes with the model d. It might work for a PM4 also
Does the RIF6 still make your list as a cheaper water rower good sir 🤔. In the market for “quiet”. Cookie dough to answer the previous questions as well brother 🤙
Nailed it. I spent weeks trying to figure out which rower to buy, finally decided on the concept2 after watching a bunch of reviews and I calling concept2 and they answered all my questions. You explained very clearly that there are a few good rowers out there and a whole bunch that have issues.
I am totally blind. What kind of rowing machine would you recommend for me? Obviously, a monitor is not beneficial. However, if I can connect to an app on my iPhone or iPad, I can use the voice-over feature to telll me what is on the screen. Thanks for your help. I am new to rowing machines. :)
thanks, Concept it is, I had originally looked into Nordictrack as they were having a special, but the lightweight, simplicity, build quality, and availability of parts make the case for the Concept. If I want a screen I have an ipad air so the PM5 will be fine, and at $900 its not a bad deal
Peanut butter chocolate. Thanks, I have been shopping for a machine for a few weeks and watching all of the videos I can. I appreciate hearing the differences.
Vanilla for life! Just throw in a flake 😊 still not too sure which one to pick up given my limited funds but it was an interesting dive into what i fear is weeks of watching videos and reviews! Thanks for the depth of your explainations with many takeaways to think about even if the UK's amazon listings including various different brands
Been doing so much research before pulling the trigger on a row machine, and your videos have been so great! Thank you for compiling and sharing all of your research and knowledge for us beginners. Also, cookies and cream 😅
GREAT review! I love the Concept Model D. Bulletproof, light, easy maintenance, smooth feel. The adjustability is awesome, and the ErgData app has been improved by leaps and bounds over the past 6 months. The WOD that integrates into the PM5 with one touch of lets me start super fast. PM5's connectivity with a variety of heart rate monitors is top notch. I have no complaints.
I'm just a beginner at rowing and during my research of rowers I came across how awesome the concept2 rower is however because I am a beginner and needed something to keep me engaged I chose the Nordictrack RW900 with the free 1yr subscription because the Hydrow rower was costly and subscription was twice as much as the ifit subscription. I hope my decision will benefit me but as I said I really needed the interactive classes and rowing down rivers to keep me coming back and not giving up. I have already lost 90lbs with diet alone and now adding exercise to lose the last 90lbs and rowing seems to be the exercise I like the most. Thanks for your videos, they are really helpful.
How do you like the RW900? I too am new to rowing and want a machine that will keep me engaged.
Used a Concept 2 for years, sold my old warrior when I moved from NJ to Florida, looking into another rower now, sounds like the Concept is still the best choice.Great video, thanks.
I've had a Concept II Model B for over three decades. It's the second piece of home exercise equipment I've purchased, the first being one of the original Nordic Track - PSI legacy skiers. I discovered the Concept II at a hotel fitness center when I was at a conference and loved it. I think it was about $600 when I bought it in the mid 80's, so about $100 more than the Nordic Track that I had purchased a few years earlier. It is heavy, one piece, and has wooden footplates but they have three position settings. :-) And it has an older computer that has all of the basics. It came with a choice of two seat styles, the default being the one that they still have available on their web site, but decided I liked the older Model A seat better and exchanged it. It is narrower from front to back, with deeper impressions for the ischial tuberosities and a wide cutout for the tailbone, and it doesn't chafe my butt and thighs when I'm rowing. I'm not a heavy user (but I am a bit heavy), I go through periods of being active with my home exercise equipment and periods of not using it at all, but I've really liked it.
Concept 2 - the one and only. Got mine 11 years ago. Oil the chain and use it quite frequently year round, more in the fall/winter months.
A note on the Sunny Fitness Phantom Hydro Rower: The monitor does not track distance/pace accurately and does not even claim to do so. It measures your strokes at 8m per stroke whatever power you put into it. Customer service told me "the monitor is not intended to accurately measure pace or distance". If that doesn't matter to you, it's a decent machine, but you won't be able to track anything useful apart from time.
I bought a Concept2 last fall, but had to sell it when my dog got really sick. Back on the waiting list, but my sweet pup is well worth it. The shortage of rowers since the pandemic meant that I got full price for mine, which was awesome. I debated getting something else, but have decided to wait. 💜
That’s where I’m at too. I have been on the list since Feb 2nd hoping I can order soon!
@@rubyreddress4980 make sure that they did not drop you from the waitlist. Their system unsubscribed me, so that means I would have never received the “buy” email. Luckily, customer service was responsive and could confirm that I was on the waitlist.
@@bombasticnonsense4247 thank you! I did finally get one through a different distributor. I noticed today that Rogue fitness had them in stock as well!
I saw that Rouge fitness had them available today!
@@rubyreddress4980 is Rogue good to buy through? I’m looking at getting a concept 2 D model.
just came to make sure there wasnt any concept 2 slander
Ditto
Me too, good I can continue with my day haha
Hydrow better
@@Lapp1998 blasphemy
RP3 > C2 change my mind
Pistachio is my favorite. The Sunny Hydraulic is such a waste of money, you'd almost be better off spending the $86 on cake, and getting your workout walking to CVS to pick up your metformin.
Great vid. Nothing beats the start/end position of your hands on the Concept2. If my work gym didn't have a couple, I'd just buy one.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Just starting rowing last week, I wish I would've seen this video first, ended up getting a Sunny Magnetic :\ we live and learn. However, now I know that I'll be getting a Concept 2 next time. Thanks for this great video! I love coffee flavored ice cream!
Strawberry icecream. I went waterrower thanks to the sound... It's silly, but the sound motivates me and makes all the difference for my wife using it too. Most of your subscribers will be too young, but sometimes I just put on the theme from Banacek and go for a row. But most days I use it "for real". BTW, your books and videos have been key for my rate of progress.
Nothing wrong with that at all! :) how awesome!
Chocolate chip cookie dough. Man, such a hard decision. I need one for my apt, but I need one very quiet for my downstairs neighbor. It's mostly to rehab my knee after surgery and strengthen my legs. I used to use a water rover at the gym and it was such an amazing experience.
Thanks for this ranking Austin, it's very informative. Just curious, have you tried any of the dual handle rowers that are meant to simulate actual oars, like the Fitness Reality 4000MR? What do you think of dual handle rowers in general? Thanks!
Concept 2
- Low maintanence & Battery powered monitor
- Light
- Compact for storage
- Durable
- Good feel and not that loud
- Great resistance
- Priced well, and the used market for these is awesome to save some money.
nothing else really ticks these boxes, especially when you stick a tablet on one running the C2 app the display becomes an awesome feature.
I have a Waterrower with Smartrow. Beautiful machine, accurate splits. I love it.
That's the one I will upgrade to.
Me too...
Butter pecan all the way unless a cherry dilly bar is present.
My husband has always wanted a rowing machine but never looked into getting one “that I know of.” He is 6-4” and I am 5-6”. The rowers with water sound very appealing to me and look nicer. Here are my questions:
1. How much of a hassle is it to change the water resistance back and forth for diff levels of users or needs?
2. Is rowing a good exercise for losing belly fat?
3. Would rowing be a good exercise to do after a knee replacement?
I hope I get some response here! Please let me know your thoughts.
The Concept 2 is (still) the rower for me, 4yrs and counting. It’s built like a tank- professional grade for sure. Replacement parts, should you ever need them, are very reasonably priced. The PM5, though smaller than I would like, is very powerful… i.e. the force-curve display, offering on the fly feedback on the quality of your rowing strokes. And there are no add’l subscriptions you have to pay for… I really like that.
I love how passionate you got with the Sunny Hydrolic "rower"
Oh and... cookie dough.
Julia do u have experience with this rower , Austin mentioned he has not used it but features etc were good.
I read review on Amazon that the tank leaked for someone not sure if they made it right or not😱
@@tammy1190 oh dang!! I hope the person with the leaky tank got their money back or something 😬 Maybe some free Flextape lol?
Me myself, I have only used Concept2s. A couple of athletes who I work with have water rowers, but not the Sunny ones so I can’t comment.
I picked the Concept2. Factors involved were the open eco-system, it talks to my Garmin and Strava platforms. If all of the tech on it dies I can still use my watch to record the rowing and the machine itself continues to function. It is an industry-standard and commercial grade piece of equipment. I have used it with the IFIT software that came with my treadmill and even though the ifit is a closed ecosystem I could run both the concept2 and ifit software on my phone at the same time and project it to a Chromecast big screen. I think the IFIT workouts are good but they are indexed poorly and there do not seem to be too many of them. I took delivery of the Concep2 Nov 4th 2020 and have logged 595,690 meters. I could not be happier with my purchase. Thank you so much for your guidance.
Just received my Concept 2 today, my first experience with rowing other than going fishing in a rental rowboat. Looking forward to the longevity of this machine.
Believe me, it will last decades if you just take care of it, and part are cheap and available. Enjoy. See you in 20 years!!
Super informative, thank you!
I’m a 59 year old still athletic post college crew rower, want ing to get back into it far from water. Form matters. Resistance matters. Sound is great!! Let me feel it!
Thank you. As I peruse craigslist, this has been a huge help, kept me from making some unadvised mistakes. I’d love to hear more from you:).
Thanks!
After more than a few hours of looking for a real review/comparison on rowing machines i finally found one thats worth my time, thank you and great job!
Gasky water rower it folds into two. 👌🏾
I love this. They make them foldable now!!! The oak wook water rowers
As a former equipment manager of a small university rowing program. Concept 2 parts availability was awesome
Have you had a chance to look at the SCHWINN Crewmaster Rower? Curious how it would stack up. Thanks!
I just bought that one from Best Buy
I recently purchased the Sunny Obsidian Surge and take issue with your negative review. While I'm not an experienced rower, I do know an excellent full body workout when I feel it. Sure, the foot plates pivot when they shouldn't, but the resistance feels authentic and the build is solid. I really like the sound of the water resistance and the whole unit can be stored on end to save space when not in use. Thanks for providing your input, but I feel you need to give this machine a more thorough review...
I've had a Concept2 since 1999. Mine was a Model C. I replaced the handle on it because I liked the newer handles more, and I had to replace the PM2 monitor on it due to a malfunction. My present monitor is a PM3 which I have been using for several years. It does not have all of the wireless features of the PM5, but still can be connected to a phone or computer by wire. Without a doubt, the Concept2 is the gold standard for rowing machines. I have also been involved in organizing indoor rowing competitions where all of the machines were Concept2. These are the machines used for training by the best rowers in the world. My neighbour used her Concept2 while rowing to a silver medal at the Olympics in London.
Would love to see where the Aviron rower would land. I’m hoping it’s an A. It uses the hybrid air / magnetic resistance like Nordictrack but Aviron swears it’s not a rebrand.
Have had my water rower for a year now could of got the gold standard Concept 2 . Knowing that I will never be in competition the height and sound of the water rower with 4 resistance levels was better for my purpose. What I know is it will plant me tight to the ground after some workouts . And by following you I have approved a lot . Your right about the monitor however it tells me what I’m doing. Thank for being there for use all. By the way never meet any ice cream I never liked
I’ve used Concept 2s at the gym on and off for years. Always got a good workout, although I dreaded any row over 15 minutes. I pulled the trigger on a Hydrow last month after seeing the wait list for a Concept 2. I was legitimately concerned about the cost. I needn’t have been. I’ve been rowing with it for a couple of weeks now and can honestly say that I look forward to every row. That might not sound like a big deal, but my looking forward to cardio training is akin to most people looking forward to a dentist appointment. Or a dog looking forward to a vet visit. No offense to dentists or vets.
I just bought mine like 2 weeks ago does it really take 6 weeks to ship
@@Lapp1998 Mine took about 4 in December. I hear that some people have been having faster delivery times when ordering from Best Buy. It might be worth checking them out, if you didn’t get a better price from Hydrow directly.
@@joelaw im not joking it just got here and its only been since the 15th since i ordered it
@@Lapp1998 That's awesome--I think you're going to love it.
Mint chocolate chip... this is a great list. I first tried rowing on a waterrower in OTF classes. Loved the fluid feel of the resistance. I then got a NordicTrack after covid hit. I totally agree with your comments on NordicTrack. Did not like the feel of resistance compared to the waterrower. The iFit part is pretty nice but could be more engaging. Also you need a lot of space to do some of the HIIT workouts.
Totally! Thanks for your input here Jenna! Keep up the great work!
I use the concept 2 at the gym, and the water rower at home. Quality is the same, but the rowing experience is different. Maybe like a road bike versus a mountain bike. I love em both.
Totally!
You inspired me to buy a machine and I picked out the NordicTrack 500. So far I love it!Concept 2 is on a super long wait list.
How do you like it so far? ? :)
Butter pecan, waiting on the Ergatta now. The platform looks amazing and motivating for me. Plus I can store it in my living room without it standing out
What about the RP3?
In my experience it is better for injuries.
definite S tier, rp3 is awesome
Absolutely agree! RP3 is a fantastic unit!
The absence of RowPerfect is a travesty. Every D1 program in the US uses them. Expensive as hell but with or without the piston to simulate boat roll, dynamic ergs are so much more like actual rowing.
Concept 2. At that price and quality, why would anyone buy anything else.
Cause the waiting list
Yeah... It's not available. Barely any machine is available in Europe. 😞
Plus in some countries the concept 2 rower cost 3 to 4x as much as a proform or other cheaper more internationally known brands.
@@zoltanorosz506 I have 13 weeks to go...
Cuz RP3
Strawberry, I'm researching rowers to buy one for home, I'm enjoying your videos on rowing and the different machines.
I have a waterrower, it’s hard to compare my 2k times to an air rower (apparently 7 min on concept2 would be the equivalent of 6:20 min on my water one?) also did a marathon on it last week and one of the wheels cracked clean in half at the end 😂 thank god for your rowing exercises for when you have no machine!
I have a sunny and im happy with it. I dont use the screen all I do is follow along to Austin and darkhorse vids
Hey saw ur 'how to cure knee pain' and it helped me
Pls don't leave youtube I like ur content
Thanks man! I appreciate it!
@@trainingtall welcome ... I will try to share ur videos to as many people possible
Ur content is op🔥🔥
All you need to know about the C2 is from the resale market:
Every used C2 erg is almost the retail price. You might get one for a hundred off if you're lucky, but the things hold onto their resale value almost entirely. That says a lot about quality and construction.
And a friend got the Sunny magnetic for free and I tried it out once. Holy cow, what a horrible device. It's not really rowing so much as it is strenuous pulling. There's no rhythm, smoothness or efficiency to the machine. I've used the C2 since I was a rower in high school, and sitting on the sunny was like going from a Ferrari to an old Ford.
Sounds like buying a Herman Miller office chair. Just spend the extra. They have 12 years of warranty and the resale value is very high. So total cost of ownership is much lower than a cheap ass chair. And it's the best chair for your back. I see the C2 like a Herman Miller of Rowing equipment.
Boysenberry
I have a water rower, it looks great and sounds great. I do have a bit of an issue with the footplates being so close and a bit high, it's harder to get into a comfortable catch position. If I upgrade I may look at the 2ater rower with a monorail. The plates seem 2 inches wider and an inch lower which I think would make all the difference.
Thanks this really sold me on the Hydrow. I was looking at the NT RW900 as well but your comparison helped sell me on the hydrow.
I’m about to pull the trigger on Hydrow. Did you get it & are you happy with it?
Bought concept 2 after my deployment couple years ago. The rower worked with sand, rain and low maintenance on it so I knew having one at home it would last forever
Where would you rank an Aviron? I watched your full review of the Aviron.
I love it when he says "Look at it, look at this thing, look at this thing". Hilarious
I like vanilla ice cream with pineapple topping . . .
Oh and I bought a Pro Form rower from Costco earlier this year as my first rower. It lives up to your review but for a first rower, it's not bad. Using your videos for guidance I'm now rowing 4-5 times a week and have been doing so consistently for the last 2 months. I feel better and I'm really starting to notice a difference in my cardio and muscles.
If I continue this regiment for a year, I've promised myself that next year I will make the investment in a Concept 2 (maybe sooner).
Thanks for putting together such great videos!
Hello All. Thanks for the video and the comments.
I'm new to rowing and wondering if anyone has seen or tested the Kettler Axos Rower 2.0? It is magnetic and cost aroud USD 700 here Indonesia. Unfortunately I can't find other rowing machines here except for the Concept2 with PM5 which costs around USD 2000 and that Kettler Axos 2.0.
Thanks everyone and happy rowing!
At the local gym I use Technogym rower, it’s not bad but I prefer concept 2
Ugh! I’m so sad. I literally just got the Costco ProForm a few days ago 😩😩😩 And my fave... Jamocha Almond Fudge.
My favorite ice cream is Ben and Jerry's NON DAIRY Cherry Garcia. So good. Anyway Austin how concerned are you about the Nordictrack rower? I was going to get one but what you said in the video now has me questioning it. I would love a hydrow but they are pretty pricey. What do you think? Because i want the interactive workouts on the screen to keep me motivated. Thank you!
I hear that is AMAZING!! I am very concerned about that rower to be very honest. It seems to be very much like PRoForm which I was not a fan of!
Worked out at gym with Concept2 for years. Moved to a different gym that only has Matrix Rowers. Never looked back. Don't need to add anymore to my gym noise experience than already exits and the Matrix Rower is essentially silent. Enjoy the seat experience better on the Matrix as it has more spring and is thicker for more comfort for 30+ minute rows. Handle is easily better/ergonomic on the Concept2 though for sure. Would like to try the handle on the Octane Ro though as well as that rower's experience. If you have ANY interest at all on more resistance type of training (less cardio/more muscle building), the Concept2 can't hold a candle to the Matrix Rower. Try level 10 on a Matrix Rower - you're muscles will be screaming in no time. Much better machine over a Concept 2 if you are interested in supplementing your rowing cardo with muscle building movements on the higher magnetic levels of the Matrix. Oh, and those close foot plates on the Concept 2, just not for me as my psoas muscles, etc are often contracted and the wider foot plates allow for more range of motion/full strokes. I didn't know how important and helpful that was for me until I spent months on a Matrix. Also, the build quality feels great on a Matrix versus the Concept 2's I spent probably 10 years on. Very solid and stable. The only others I would like to try would be the Octane Ro and the Technogym...which of course will not be silent like the Matrix which I personally enjoy. Anyone interested in a Concept 2 should compare to the Xebex.
Hi Austin. Thank you for the video. I was about to by the Pro Form R10. What are your thoughts on the Body Craft VR500 rower? Thanks! Jebb
Love my concept 2. Love the loud! it makes me feel like I am doing something. I would not change that.
I bought the waterrower. I have an industrial décor in my house and felt it would look nicer with the rest of my stuff or rather, the concept 2 would just look out of place. It was simply an aesthetic choice. I agree that the water rower should have been ranked an A simply because it is beautiful. Form and function are both important.
Vanilla (French first, vanilla bean second)!
Where would you rank the Aviron? Saw a more recent video with your review of the updated machine and would appreciate where you’d rank this one.
Awesome vid mate! I love the Concept 2 model D, that machine is my best friend! 😊👍
Very helpful to hear how and why you ranked them. Wish you had included more, but I'll bet others in the $500-$700 would range fall into your C-D category. Also, it would have been helpful if you had said more about differences in the physical experience of using these rowers and if any of them might be actually more prone to creating back problems. Pistachio!
My only gripe on the Concept 2 , is the seat is rock hard , otherwise it's a very good rower
Black Raspberry Chip from Graeter’s! 🍦
Recently finished your ebook & it was so helpful and informative!! The breakdown of how to row, how to lose fat and how to make life long changes….truly life-changing! Thanks Austin!!👍🏼
The beauty of the C2 stuff is their longevity and consistency. Before it shutdown I used a model E the company fitness center. They never did any maintenance so I sprung for the $60 parts. After new bungees, chain, and seat rollers, worked like new. Last September got a model D for home. A couple weeks ago picked up a C in good shape at a yard sale. Freed the stuck links, cleaned and lubed the chain, tightened the bungees. Feel is almost the same, most difference is the handle. Basically except for the differences in the PM’s with only minor maintenance these will last a lifetime, or more
I would really love to hear where the city go rower would end up on this tier list. I need that quiet swish sound in my house as opposed to the chainsaw sound of the concept.
I bought an old air rower with adjustable footplate and good info monitor for cheap and avoid those bad ones on amazon, all because your video, thank you!
I am interested in subscribing to your guided workouts after I get a rowing machine. When I look on the concept 2 site, I don’t see a model D anymore. Is it something else now? Or Is there a new top choice you have?
I went and bought a Concept 2. I had been using one at my local gym, and found the computer to be just wonderful, but after watching Austin's video, I was convinced that if it were good enough for pro rowers, then maybe I should get one for home.
Hi Austin. Great review. Did you try the pro form R 10 Rower? Seems to be there higher end rower Versus the one sold at Costco. I can get a new one for $500. However, I’m scared about the strap now. Thanks for your comment.
What are your thoughts on the Horizon Oxford 6? Im looking at getting one due to it being about the same price as the Concept 2 but virtually no sound while you row. (Temporary New Year Sale)
O live the C2 but... the noise. As you've said, if in a condo or apt... but I don't think it is appreciated how nice and quiet a magnetic rower is in the house. You can work out at any time. Working out during meetings isn't an issue.
Chocolate peanut butter is my favorite flavor of ice cream. Thanks for creating this rundown of machines.
I wonder how the Echelon rower would rank?
The Echelon was what I was hoping to see ranked also.
I am the proud owner of Concept2 Rower Model D and Bikerg. Those are great machine and give me hell of motivation.
Java chip - thanks, you saved me from buying a piece of equipment that may or may not get used, but doesn't provide a good experience in any case. My priorities: good workout, comfortable use, quietness, quality build, space. Haven't decided how much I like the pro-level coached workouts that come with membership subscriptions, but for sure dislike monthly subscription costs. So I love the Hydrow but would likely buy the Concept2. That's probably what I used at the gym a long time ago, and I liked it just fine.
Like the sound of the Concept 2. Trust it doesn’t come with a forced subscription to some training program like some of the others with iFit etc. Am I correct about that?
Correct. There's no wifi connection, forced subscription, or feature removing updates.
Looking to get into rowing machine. Great video that really helps. However, you top choice is the concept 2. These days it is at $2400 in Canada. This is crazy. For $1100 we could get a BATTIFE Water Rowing Machine. Any experience with that machine?
First, favorite ice-cream is vanilla. Second, thanks for laying this out. We are just starting to look at rowers and I have been eyeing the Concept 2 as well as the Aviron. Any experience with the Aviron?
I’m on a waiting list for the Concept2 after watching this video. Thanks for the advice. I’d say Concept2 also has a podcast for workouts.
Favorite Ice Cream: Walmart makes Fudge Tracks with rivals Rocky Road.
Custard based vanilla ice cream with a warm soft brownie on top and a drizzle of caramel sauce. That’s a flavour right?
Have you ever tried an Echelon magnetic rower? I am looking at one because I need something quiet and I already have an Echelon spin bike, which I love. My bike doesn't have a screen, as I've heard those can easily malfunction. I'd go with the same for the rower - the screen-free option. I do love a Concept 2, it's what we used in college for crew training, but I just can't have that noise level in our house.
Awesome, but what is your opinion on the Housefit rowing machine on Amazon? OR the CIrcuit Fitness? I am looking for one that is easy to use for me and my husband.
Love your review, appreciate the details - very helpful. Can you comment on the Echelon Smart Rower as I'm looking for a magnetic rower (for quiet)
Nobody:
Austin: my mother is a Concept 2 machine.
Austin makes great videos and I've not tried the Concept 2 (C2) so it might be the greatest machine out there but I would not be surprised if Austin were sponsored by them. Not that I have any issue with this, just believe that if he does have any affiliation with the company that he should disclose it, in his videos.
Also German Dark Chocolate with a little salt mixed in.
There are 4 different proforms, 460, 600, 750, and R10, they all have the slacky on the retraction, but the mechanism gets smoother on the 750 and 10.
Yeah stay away from the RW900. The monitor is too big and heavy for bolt/hinge pin it is supported by. It’s easy to strip the bolt when tightening down and after four weeks you get another bolt that will break just as easily. If you don’t tighten enough the monitor will droop down and if it’s too tight the bolt will break causing it to fall down.
I’m a concept 2 guy
what about those cheap (500-600) rebranded water rowing machines, same quality as the waterrower?
Great video. I've only used rowers at the gym. I have always preferred Concept 2 and I like the sound. I grew up rowing a small boat on a lake so the fan reminds me of the wind. I did have a gym that had water rowers and it was still enjoyable but I missed the sound of the Concept. Magnetic didn't do it for me. It is also difficult to find Concepts used, people keep them. I've not tried the Hydrow but would not like the subscription issue.
I'm getting tired of subscription based 'anything.' lame
Edit: so I live on a lake. What is that 2 person rower at about 15:30
Concept 2 will be our purchase. And my favorite is Rocky Road as well. BTW. You should get commission.
LOVE IT! And thank you...but sadly I don't! But it's okay! Just happy to help!
Thanks for this comparison, Austin - I really appreciate that you don't sugarcoat. (note: if you group the text and image, they will move together)
Oh - favorite ice cream flavor - mint chip.
Can you use regatta software somehow on concept 2? Great video by the way, I’m in the waiting list for Concept2.... but was seriously considering the Assault Elite rower as it’s in stock in UK but software support and monitor seem to be letting it down... looks like amazing quality though... think I’m gonna wait for the C2...
Yes I have the app on both my iPad and iPhone. You use the app to pair it with the PM5 monitor that comes with the model d. It might work for a PM4 also
Does the RIF6 still make your list as a cheaper water rower good sir 🤔. In the market for “quiet”.
Cookie dough to answer the previous questions as well brother 🤙
Butter Pecan! Watched the whole thing. I think this really helped me to make a final decision. I already watched like 3 of your reviews.
Nailed it. I spent weeks trying to figure out which rower to buy, finally decided on the concept2 after watching a bunch of reviews and I calling concept2 and they answered all my questions. You explained very clearly that there are a few good rowers out there and a whole bunch that have issues.
I am totally blind. What kind of rowing machine would you recommend for me? Obviously, a monitor is not beneficial. However, if I can connect to an app on my iPhone or iPad, I can use the voice-over feature to telll me what is on the screen. Thanks for your help. I am new to rowing machines. :)
I have the MaxKare magnetic rowing machine. I'm just a beginner and I bought it to lose weight. Do you think it's a decent machine?
Can you rank the Echelon?
he did... its ranked where it belongs.. not even on the list lol
thanks, Concept it is, I had originally looked into Nordictrack as they were having a special, but the lightweight, simplicity, build quality, and availability of parts make the case for the Concept. If I want a screen I have an ipad air so the PM5 will be fine, and at $900 its not a bad deal
Peanut butter chocolate. Thanks, I have been shopping for a machine for a few weeks and watching all of the videos I can. I appreciate hearing the differences.
Brought the Nordic track , it went wrong twice , was an absolute nightmare , wound up getting a concept 2
Smart decision to go with C2 in the end brother!
Vanilla for life! Just throw in a flake 😊 still not too sure which one to pick up given my limited funds but it was an interesting dive into what i fear is weeks of watching videos and reviews! Thanks for the depth of your explainations with many takeaways to think about even if the UK's amazon listings including various different brands
I still use my old Schwinn Windrigger and row in VR. That Windrigger has withstood the test of time.
I bought a concept 2 based on your recommendation and I absolutely love it. Thanks
Been doing so much research before pulling the trigger on a row machine, and your videos have been so great! Thank you for compiling and sharing all of your research and knowledge for us beginners.
Also, cookies and cream 😅