So the family has decided to purchase a rowing machine. I’m looking forward to having it, but I’ve been tasked with selecting the model, and I’m suffering from option overload: there are just too many kinds of rowers from too many brands, and I can’t make up my mind. Little help?
We’re going to get one with a cable + handle, not one of the the ones with two bars on the sides. We’re willing to go high-end and spend $1000-$1200 on a Concept 2 or something, but I’d like to try to find something mid-range for $500-$700 if possible (even cheaper is ok, too, but cost is not as important and quality/a good warranty)
I’m not set on what design to choose: air, magnetic, or even water resistance would all be fine in theory, so input into that decision would be great (I’d particularly love any insight into water rowers). Adjustable resistance would be a plus, since hopefully this machine will be used by a 17 year old boy, a 34 year old man, and a 63 year old woman.
Any and all comments are appreciated. Thanks in advance.
I also have a Concept 2 and love it, FWIW. Currently it runs about $900 new, very adjustable. Can often be found for less used (for example on a quick criagslist search). And proof above that they can be found for less too. Let’s face it some buy with the best of fitness intentions and then never use the things … they are like new.
But some are indeed a bit less and probably work fine too. Then again if actually getting used by a few people regularly a two or three hundred more be worth it it. Lots cheaper and more convenient than a gym membership.
Another very happy Concept 2 owner here. We bought new, even though it was expensive, because my husband is freakishly tall, and we needed a longer rail. Super nice guys helped us out, professional assistance and support, and the machine is great. Well worth it.
Machine details, right.
Wind resistance (a fan on the front) adjustable resistance serves well to switch between my giant strong swimmer of a hubby and my weak and puny self, the chain and handle arrangement is stable and cycles very smoothly, very stable and low set to the ground, footprint is less huge than you’d think - it’s pretty narrow.
Concept 2 is the king of machines, and is honestly the only machine I ever use for any purpose in terms of fitness (all barbells and dumbbells otherwise, and the associated benches and racks.) I wouldn’t blink an eye before buying another one if I needed to and for some reason my current one had disappeared.
Hmmm. I was hoping to apply some cleverness and sleuthing to find a novel solution and a good deal, but I may just have to go with the Concept 2 (poor me).
How’s their customer service? I’m looking for warts and having a hard time finding any. The warranty is really good, Amazon reviews are amazingly consistent, etc.
