Posts Tagged ‘Rowing’

BodyCraft VR100 Rowing Machine – BCF006

Rating : / 5.0
Price on Oct 15, 2010 05:20:04 :

Best Deal Today @ Amazon Check Price Now !

BodyCraft VR100 Rowing Machine – BCF006 Overviews

Contoured ergonomic seat glides on industrial-grade bearings inside nylon wheelsCompact design; folds for storage into a 16 x 14-inch space44 inches of travel from pedals will accommodate users of any sizeConsole is adjustable by height and angle for a perfect viewBuilt-in Polar (or compatible) heart rate monitor receiver chest strap optionalLightweight rubber coated aluminum handleLevel 1 air resistance; Level 2 through 6 air and magnetic resistanceConsole displays: time distance strokes calories and heart rateSealed urethane seat for increased durabilityFrame constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum and steelIncludes manufacturer’s warranty click on Guarantee tab for complete details About BodyCraftA division of Recreation Supply Inc. BodyCraft is based out of Sunbury OH and is known for high quality home exercise equipment such as ellipticals treadmills and weight stations. These high quality machines have convenient features like foldable bodies that can be easily stored plus superior components like heart rate straps heavy-gauge steel frames and clear crisp LED screens with progress tracking. Trust your fitness to the experts at BodyCraft to receive a gym-quality workout in the comfort of your own home.

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine

Ordered the Concept2 Model E from Amazon. I’ll separate the purchase/shipping experience from the review of the machine itself.

1. PURCHASE/SHIPPING. Purchasing on Amazon was easy and pleasant, as always, but that is where the fun stopped. The shipper they used, Ceva Logistics did an awful job. They gave me a four hour window on the first shipping attempt, forcing me to stay home, and proceeded to miss the appointment. Next, on the reschedule, they came a day early, when no one was around. Finally, they came on the correct day, but the box holding the rower legs was damaged as were the legs. I complained about the experience to Amazon, who did refund a portion of the shipping charge. Only reason for 1 star. I don’t recommend buying any large shipping item from Amazon if they continue to use this shipping company.

Amazon web experience: 4 stars

Shipping experience: 1 star

2. ROWER/CONCEPT2. Rather than call Amazon about the damaged legs, I called Concept2. They immediately shipped a set of replacement legs at no charge. Of course, they would rather I do this than return the whole rower to Amazon for a replacement, but then I didn’t want to experience Amazon shipping again, so we were both happy. I was very pleased with the customer service from Concept2 – the people I spoke to were very professional, courteous and helpful.

I rowed in college a couple decades ago, and we used Concept2 rowers then, and the Model E is a refinement of the great product they have been making. The feel of the rower is still better than competing air and water rowers I tried, and remains the benchmark to beat short of a gamut erg.

Concept2 Model E & company: 5 stars

Pathetic Shipping – Trevor A. Chow –
My rowing machine has not even arrived and already I am disgusted with the service from Amazon. Amazon promised on their website that if I ordered on 5/31/10 delivery would take place on 6/4/10. They have now rescheduled the estimated date to 6/10/10. Don’t make promises you cannot keep!!!

Rating : 4.0 / 5.0
Price on Oct 06, 2010 14:10:10 : $1,260.00
Offer Price : $1,260.00

Best Deal Today @ Amazon Check Price Now !

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine Features

  • Indoor rowing machine with sliding seat for complete total body workouts
  • Flywheel is designed to minimize noise while providing the smooth feel of rowing on the water
  • Separates easily into two parts for transport and storage. Caster wheels make it mobile
  • PM4 Performance Monitor accurately measures performance and heart rate, includes chest belt HR transmitter
  • Requires footprint of 9 x 4 feet; 500-pound capacity; 5-year frame warranty

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine Overviews

Rowing provides superb total-body cardiovascular conditioning in a smooth impact-free exercise. A great investment, the commercial-grade Concept2 Model E Indoor Rower is supported with free online motivational tools such as the Concept2 online logbook, rowing challenges and training forum. Manufactured by the company that set the standard in rowing, the Model E is Concept2’s latest and most advanced indoor rower. With rugged features such as a one-piece leg design, glossy finish top coat, nickel-plated chain and fully-enclosed chain housing, the Model E is recommended for high-use facilities, individuals looking for the latest and greatest, and those who prefer a higher seated position. With a 20” seat height, the Model E sits 6” higher than the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower, making it easier to get on and off. The self-calibrating Performance Monitor (PM4) displays workout data in five display options, a LogCard to record results, games and more! The PM4 (included) also features built-in wireless heart rate monitoring (chest belt provided), machine-to-machine wireless racing, a rechargeable battery pack, and increased memory capacity. Every Concept2 Indoor Rower comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and limited 2-year 5-year warranty.

Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine Specifications

With unrivaled function and durability, the Concept2 Model E Indoor Rower is the machine of choice for people and athletes of all ages and ability. While similar to Concept2’s Model D rower, the Model E sits up higher above the floor (20 inches, about the height of a typical dining room chair), which is optimal for those with balance or mobility issues. The Model E also comes with the PM4 Performance Monitor, and the monitor arm is fixed in place on the Model E (where it pivots on the Model D). The PM4 also includes a rechargeable battery pack and Suunto chest belt for heart rate monitoring.

Whether you already row or are considering rowing to keep in shape, lose weight, cross-train for another sport, compete on the water or rehabilitate from injury or surgery, rowing is the complete exercise for you. Your whole body gets a complete workout from the efficient, rhythmic motion of rowing–arms, legs, chest, back, abs.

Features and Specifications:

  • 20 inch frame height, positioning you at a comfortable seat height.
  • One-piece leg design offers stability and a solid feel.
  • Nickel-plated chain for low-maintenance and a clean look.
  • Fully enclosed chain housing keeps the chain cleaner.
  • Powder-coated frame sealed with a clear top coat for extra durability.
  • Light metallic gray finish with dark blue-gray accents.
  • Long monitor arm, putting the PM4 within easy reach.
  • Flywheel design minimizes noise, maximizes smooth feel of rowing on the water.
  • Easy spiral damper controls feel of each pull.
  • Ergonomic handle promotes natural arm and hand position.
  • Aluminum rail capped with a stainless-steel track for smooth movement of the seat.
  • Flexfoot footrests adjust for quick and easy sizing.
  • Compact storage: Indoor rower separates easily into two parts for transport and storage.
  • Easy assembly. Tools and illustrated instructions included.
  • Caster wheels make it mobile.
  • Maximum user weight: 500 pounds
  • Dimensions: 7′ 11″ x 24″ (L x W)
  • Recommended workout space: 9 x 4 feet
  • Weight: 65 pounds

The PM4 computer monitor.

PM4 Monitor Features:

  • Automatic Operation: Just start to row and the monitor turns on and gives feedback. You don’t have to push a single button.
  • Accurate tracking of performance data: distance, speed, pace, calories and watts
  • Five display options: all data, force curve, rowing with a pace boat, bar chart and large print
  • LogCard: Removable LogCard stores workout data and personal preferences. A LogCard is included with every PM4.
  • USB Interface: transfer of data to PC or Mac
  • Easy menu-driven operation: accesses a powerful list of features, including preset workouts, save favorite workouts, row against a previous performance or pace boat, play the FISH game, row with an animated rower to learn technique, review past workout results and choose from multiple language options.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Built in wireless compatibility with Suunto heart rate technology (chest belt provided), offers improved transmission and eliminates interference from nearby rowers. Also compatible with Polar heart rate technology.
  • Rechargeable Battery Pack: As you row you will actually be recharging your battery. The battery pack can also be recharged by connecting the PM4 to a PC through the USB port.
  • Increased Memory Capacity: to allow for future expansion and features
  • Supports Machine to Machine Racing: has the computing power to support both wireless and wired racing. No PCs needed

Related Products

LifeCore Fitness R88 Rowing Machine – Fast, Free Shipping

Rating : / 5.0
Price on Oct 04, 2010 11:20:06 :

Best Deal Today @ Amazon Check Price Now !

LifeCore Fitness R88 Rowing Machine – Fast, Free Shipping Overviews

Fast, FREE FedEx Shipping LOWEST Price Guarentee! \ …this one is perfect for a smaller apartment. It folds easily and feels great after 20-30 minutes of rowing..\ (Verified Buyer) \ This machine is everything that it claimed to be and more! What a bargain :) \ (WRDJR, Customer) \ Since buying this rower I have never felt so good. It makes it easier to take the boat out on the weekend fishing trips. I feel healthier, and happier since its purchase…man this is an awesome machine for the money. \ (Satisfied Customer) LifeCore Fitness R88 Rowing Machine A great Rower at an Amazing Price , the R88 is the newest addition to the LifeCore line. The R88 is the only rowing machine with Preset Programs, Air Resistance and Heart Rate Control and its innovative design represents over of decade of research and development by LifeCore. Its The featured combination of air and magnetic resistance makes for the smoothest and mosr fluid stroke out there…you will feel like you\’re out on the open water. Its the whole package with its Affordable Price and an endless list of features. The Lifecore R88 rowing machine provides a great club-quality, whole-body workout in your own home with 8 levels controlled by the computer monitor, blue back-lit console, and folding frame for storage. Whether you already row or are considering rowing to keep in shape, lose weight, cross-train for another sport, compete on the water or rehabilitate from injury or surgery, rowing is the complete exercise for you. Your whole body gets a workout from the efficient, rhythmic motion of rowing–arms, legs, chest, back, abs . The R88 Rowing Machine will meet and exceed all your needs as it zones in on the legs, back and arms as well as the heart and circulatory system. Features and Included FREE! Large L

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor

I bought a Waterrower (Ash with S4 monitor) and can’t say enough good things about it. I use a Concept 2 in the gym (it doesn’t sound noisy there but who can hear anything in a gym), but went for the Waterrower for less noise (and a smaller footprint) for my condominium. I use it when I watch TV and hardly know I’m exercising – except that I suddenly notice I’m breathing hard when I stop. It is attractive and well built.

Two big negatives, though. The monitor/computer is a total waste of money. You can hardly read the monitor due to glare and it doesn’t start and pause automatically when you start to row or pause your rowing (for example, if you stop to fast forward over a commercial). **Update on my last review: it does start automatically from “PAUSE” but it won’t pause automatically. The only useful function is the stroke counter. I count my strokes and divide by 30 to get the number of minutes actually rowed. Or I just set 1000 strokes as my goal for a workout.

The second negative: it’s too low. I started using a rower to protect my bad knees, but this rower puts a huge strain on the knees getting on it or off it. There is an extender overpriced at 0, but no description of the maximum weight you can be and safely use it (I’m worried about sideways torque on the extender while I row). So if you have knee issues, either get the massively priced (00) metal HI RISE model or find some chair or braces to keep next to the rower seat to help you getting down and up.

One more quibble about the computer: it doesn’t come with a heart beat monitor (transmitter or receiver). A receiver should be built in for these prices. You can buy one, but the reviews suggest it doesn’t work well.

Bottom line: if you plan to use your exercise equipment around other people or in a room other than a dedicated exercise room (try to wheel out your treadmill from the living room when you’re not using it) this is hands down the choice. Especially if your joints can’t take the higher impact exercise equipment. But skip the monitor unless you figure out how to eliminate the glare and plan to use it with lots of light (not with the TV on at night, for example). Of course, get some rowing time in at the gym before you buy, just to be sure you will use it once you get it home.

Ok but with some reservations, limited comparison w Concept 2 – Sembu –
Update – Water rower sent me a new sensor and disk which fixed the computer. It was relatively easy to install. I would like to upgrade my rating to 4. Everyone likes it and uses it. Why not a five? My remaining nits, which really shouldn’t discourage people from buying it are:

1) The footrests. Yup still catches the shoes, even though I changed to ones with narrower heels. I think they could fix this by angling the edges outwards. A bit more substantive design would also be nice.

2) The computer – Its kinda basic. It will count calories per hour as you row, but won’t give you a total calorie count. Additionally, I use the rower when watching movies in the dark. It would be great if there were a backlight just to check how you are doing. I use my cellphone light to check.

3) I’ve figured out why the feel of the pull is not perfectly smooth. Basically, there is a wheel where the strap goes around (imagine a ribbon wound around a wheel). The strap slips slightly as you pull.

These are all minor nits. I think they got the frame design right otherwise. I would buy it again.

Good points – 4.5 star frame.

The frame is solid, well made and attractive. My wife and kids all like it. The feel and sound of the water sloshing as you row is nice. The wheels make it easy to maneuver, though I rarely store it upright. It’s also easy to assemble and all the parts fit well together. There is almost no creaking, although my son can make it creak slightly when he goes at it really hard.

Some design and delivery issues – Minus 2 star

There are two main cheesy design issues with this rower. The foot rest feels really cheap. It may not come apart over time because your feet are held by a belt that goes around a wood plank. But, its thin floppy molded black plastic. The shape makes its hard to get your shoes in and out. You need to hold it to get your shoe out sometimes. It also has sharp edges so you can’t use it wearing just socks. This does not belong on a 00+ machine.

The other issue is the sensor and computer design. It feels like an afterthought addition to the rower. The computer is attached to the rower by a plastic tube. The sensor wheel itself is cheap plastic and slides up and down the shaft (not held by a screw or washer) and can interfere with the rowing motion if too high.

My sensor/computer of my rower was DOA. I followed the instruction on how to adjust the sensor wheel. If you raise it too much the ridges bump the sensor and if you lower it, it doesn’t register. In the end, I am not sure what was not working. Amazon gave me a 0 credit for the difference between the rower with the computer and with out. After a couple of months I am still waiting for a new sensor from water rower.

Vs. the Concept 2 rower:

I was deciding between the water rower and the Concept 2 machine, which is in the same price range. I used the Concept 2 rower just briefly a couple of times. I decided to order the water rower instead sight unseen due to the reviews. I do prefer feel of the water wheel effect vs wind resistance.

Computer – I did not use the computer much on the C2 and the one on my water rower still does not work, but based on reviews out there the C2 computer is supposedly far superior. Apparently it is the main selling point on the C2. It does appear to be better made.

Pull mechanism – Water rower uses a nylon strap for pulling vs. the C2 using a chain. C2 looks more heavy duty and has a slightly smoother pull. Small advantage to C2.

Wind vs Water – I do prefer the feel and sound of the water wheel more than the wind resistance of C2’s fan. Both give more resistance the harder you pull. While I could be happy with the C2, I still prefer the water rowing motion.

Looks – Both are well made. Water rower has an aluminum model also but a higher price point. I like the wood frame. My wife does not object to it as much. However, C2 has a small edge as I had mentioned, including the foot rest.

Overall – I am happy enough with the water rower to keep it. My whole family uses and likes it. I would not say its 5 star though. If I had no problems with the machine, I would still rate it slightly under 4 star for the reasons stated above. The thing that bugs me the most is the foot rest.

Rating : 4.5 / 5.0
Price on Sep 24, 2010 02:20:04 : $1,095.00
Offer Price : $995.00

Best Deal Today @ Amazon Check Price Now !

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor Features

  • Handcrafted rowing machine with “water flywheel” that replicates actual rowing feel
  • Flywheel sits in enclosed water tank to provide smooth, quiet, self-regulated resistance
  • Series 4 performance monitor tracks workout intensity, stroke rate, heart rate, and more
  • Solid ash and stained honey oak construction absorbs sound and vibration
  • Stores upright; measures 84 x 21 x 22 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 117 pounds

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor Overviews

The WaterRower Natural is handcrafted from solid Ash wood, finished with a honey oak stain and danish oil. The WaterRower’s patented WaterFlywheel has been specifically designed to emulate the dynamics of a boat moving though water and is unsurpassed in its simulation of the physical and physiological benefits of rowing.

WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor Specifications

Rowing has long been recognized as the perfect aerobic pursuit, with naturally smooth and flowing movements that don’t tax the joints but do boost the heart rate. Now you can take your rowing experience to the next level with the WaterRower Natural rowing machine. Using the same principles that govern the dynamics of a boat in water, the WaterRower Natural is outfitted with a “water flywheel” that consists of two paddles in an enclosed tank of water that provide smooth, quiet resistance, just like the paddles in an actual body of water. As a result, the machine has no moving parts that can wear out over time (even the recoil belt and pulleys don’t require lubricating or maintaining). More significantly, the water tank and flywheel create a self-regulating resistance system that eliminates the need for a motor. As with real rowing, when you paddle faster, the increased drag provides more resistance. When you paddle slower, the resistance is less intense. The only limit to how fast you can row is your strength and your ability to overcome drag. And unlike conventional rowing machines, which tend to be jerky and jarring, the WaterRower Natural is remarkably smooth and fluid.

From a fitness perspective, the WaterRower Natural works 84 percent of your muscle mass, helping tone and strengthen your muscles while burning far more calories than most other aerobic machines. The exercise is also low impact, as it removes all the body weight from the ankles, knees, and hips, but still moves the limbs and joints through a full range of motion–from completely extended to completely contracted.

The WaterRower Natural is outfitted with a Series 4 performance monitor that’s designed to balance technical sophistication with user-friendliness. The monitor–which includes six information and programming windows, six QuickSelection buttons, and three navigation buttons–displays your workout intensity, stroke rate, heart rate, zone bar, duration, and distance. Plus, the monitor is compatible with an optional heart rate chest strap and receiver, which helps you optimize your workout and achieve your exercise objectives.

The WaterRower Natural is handcrafted in solid ash and stained honey oak for consistency of color. The wood was chosen due to its marvelous engineering properties, especially its ability to absorb sound and vibration, which enhances the WaterRower’s quiet performance and smooth operation. Ash, like all woods used in the construction of the WaterRower, is a premium hardwood with incredible longevity and dimensional stability. In addition, the wood is harvested from replenishable forests and is hand finished with Danish oil to provide a deep luster.

Other details include dual rails with four corner wheels that increase seat stability and reduce the amount of sweat buildup; a frame that flips upright for handy storage; and a weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds. The WaterRower Natural measures 84 by 21 by 22 inches (W x H x D), weighs 117 pounds (with water), and carries a one-year warranty on the frame and components (WaterRower will upgrade the warranty to five years on the frame and three years on the components with the completion of a registration form).

Related Products

Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine – Monitor, 5-Year Warranty

Rating : / 5.0
Price on Sep 14, 2010 20:40:04 :

Best Deal Today @ Amazon Check Price Now !

Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine – Monitor, 5-Year Warranty Overviews

LOWEST PRICE on the Web! FREE Fitness Monitor! FAST FedEx Shipping! FREE 5-Year Warranty! We are the Leading Online Seller Of the Stamina 1205! WHY? See for yourself! \ AWESOME! Best value! My wife and I both use the rower. She\’s five foot two, and I am over six feet – works great for both of us. \ (Verified Buyer) \ I love it! I have arthritis in my hip and can no longer do the normal aerobic exercises like jogging, jump rope etc. I got the Stamina Rower for cardo and absolutely love it. It gets my heart pumping and I feel like after 25 minutes on it that I\’ve had a great workout. \ (Verified Buyer) \ The machine was easy to set up and is well-made! I\’ve used it often during the last year; nothing has failed or worn. It provides good total-body exercise, and can easily be set for increasing strength levels. I\’m 6\’2 – the machine might be small for someone much taller, but is fine for my height. Overall – a lot of well-designed machine for the price… no complaints. .\ (Verified Buyer) Stamina 1205 Precision Rower Stamina Model 35-1205 Enjoy the feel of the open water on the Stamina 1205 Precision Rowing Machine. The Stamina 1205 Precision mimics the smooth motion of rowing on the water with a padded seat that glides on a ball bearing roller system, rowing arms whose resistance is adjusted by hydraulic cylinders, and foam grips that keep hands stable and comfortable. Smooth Motion of Rowing on Water! Designed to be affordable, functional, and durable, the 1205 Precision is ideal for athletes looking for a compact and inexpensive rowing option, or for those new to rowing who arent ready to commit to a larger or more expensive model. Multifunctional Fitness Monitor – FREE The Fitness Monitor turns on automatically when the seat moves or by a press of the butt