Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower Review
Today, we’re reviewing the Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower. So, if you’re looking for a rowing machine like the Concept2 RowErg but can’t bring yourself to fork over $1,300+, then you’re in the right place.
Concept2 has dominated the market since 1981 and finally, some competitors are starting to enter the space.
I have a friend who owns the Body Solid R300 and have had the chance to try it out a couple of times.
So, I can speak from experience and tell you how it compares to my rower, the C2 RowErg.
In short, the Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower is a good option for folks who want a cheaper alternative to the Concept2 that provides the same durability, look, and feel without the PM5 monitor. If you’re not as concerned with tracking advanced metrics or competing online, the R300 is a great option.
With either machine, you’ll get the same total body workout.
Depending on the retailer, you might save $300-400 by opting for the Body Solid R300 which I think is a worthy compromise if you’re not looking to get deep into the sport of indoor rowing. For the best price, choose a place that offers free shipping.
If you want to join a rowing studio or CrossFit gym or compete in indoor rowing (online or in person), then the Concept2 is the way to go since it’s the rower you’ll use in most cases.
I hope you enjoyed this Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower review!
Body-Solid R300 Rower Review
Resistance Type
The Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower is an air-resistance rowing machine.
This means the resistance is mostly controlled by how fast a user rows.
To operate an air-resistance rower, a user first starts rowing by pulling the handle and spinning the fan flywheel.
As the fan spins, it must displace the air in front of the “blades”, which causes friction/resistance.
As a user rows faster, the flywheel spins faster and must displace more and more air in front of the fan blades. The faster it spins, the more air it must displace – so the higher the resistance!
We call this “variable” resistance due to the resistance being controlled by how fast or slow a user rows.
Check out this resistance article here to learn more about how air rowers operate.
Resistance Benefits
The Endurance R300 has smooth, strong air resistance that is great for any fitness level.
As previously mentioned, this rower is designed to be similar to the Concept2 and be used for general fitness purposes or Crossfit style workouts.
The feedback has been overall very positive and most users say the resistance is no different than any of the other leading air rowing machines. I got the same impression when I used the machine.
Plus, the Body Solid R300 Rower has a “gear-like” design on the flywheel housing, which looks pretty cool in my opinion!
One small gripe about all air rowers is the noise they make when in use. Since the fan is spinning fairly quickly, it will make noise when in use and will get louder the harder you row.
Some people find this motivating but others (e.g., early-morning rowers with roommates/family) find it bothersome.
I created an article about reducing the noise on a Concept2 and a video of myself rowing on a Concept2. This should give you a good idea about the volume of noise you will hear while rowing.
Damper Settings
Higher-end air rowing machines come with a feature called a “damper” setting. A damper controls the amount of air allowed inside the flywheel housing.
The Body Solid R300 Rower has 9 different damper settings. This rower has one less than the Concept2 and Xebex but it hardly makes a difference.
The higher the setting, the more air that is allowed to flow inside the housing. More air flowing in means more air that the fan must displace. The air also causes the flywheel to slow down faster and causes the user to perform more work to accelerate it on the next stroke.
A lower damper setting is just the opposite. Less air coming into the housing, thus an easier stroke.
The damper is not technically a resistance setting, although a lot of people think of it that way.
According to Concept2, “damper setting is similar to bicycle gearing: it affects how rowing feels but does not directly affect the resistance. A lower damper setting on the indoor rower is comparable to easier gears on a bike.”
I think of rowing on a damper setting level 9 as rowing in a boat with 3 people, while rowing on a setting of 1 is like rowing by myself.
Either way, it gives a user more control over their workout and how they want their rowing stroke to feel.
Bottom Line
Overall, the resistance on the R300 Endurance Rower is excellent. It’s great for any fitness type (beginner or advanced) and perfect for any age level.
Most people experienced with high-end air rowing machines say they feel no difference in the resistance between the Body Solid R300 and similar rowers.
Monitor/Control Panel
The monitor on the Body Solid R300 is one feature that needs to be looked at closely. Mainly because it’s going to be compared to the PM5 monitor on the Concept2, which is the most accurate monitor on the market.
The R300 displays 9 different data points at all times (which is pretty nice):
- Time
- Stroke
- Pulse
- Calories
- Paddle Width (distance per stroke)
- Stroke Rate (strokes per minute)
- Distance
- Cycle (number of cycles for interval exercise programs)
- Watts
As you can see from the photo above, the monitor is easy to read and operates with only 5 buttons.
The monitor will start up after moving the handle or pressing a button. It will turn off after 20 seconds of inactivity.
You will need 2 C batteries to operate (not included). There is a self-generating power aspect to the rower, which will help the batteries last longer.
To utilize the pulse feature, you will need a Polar heart rate monitor. The most common one on the market is the Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor.
The monitor does come with a really convenient cellphone holder. This allows you to view fitness apps or enjoy a YouTube video while working out!
Exercise Programs
One cool feature of the monitor is that it comes with 8 different exercise programs. I’ll list them below with a brief description of each.
- Quick Start – Grab the handle and just start rowing. All metrics will begin tracking.
- Distance – Pick a set distance and the monitor will count down.
- Time – Pick a set time and the monitor will count down.
- Calorie – Pick a set calorie number and the monitor will count down.
- Game – Row faster or slower to avoid certain dots in the matrix or try to hit certain dots to score points.
- 20/10 Interval – Row for 20 seconds and rest for 10. The user can select the number of cycles to complete.
- 10/20 Interval – Row for 10 seconds and rest for 20. The user can select the number of cycles to complete.
- 10/10 Interval – The user can set the number of cycles, row time, and rest time.
As you can see, there are quite a few options to keep you engaged!
Compared to PM5
Any person is going to compare it to the Concept2 PM5 because they want to compare their workout times to people around the world.
Due to its highly accurate data recording, the Concept2 is the only rowing machine that is used for setting World Records and the one used in indoor rowing competitions.
Each Concept2 Rower calibrates the deceleration speed of the flywheel and calculates a drag factor. This means if you set the drag factor to the same number on 10 different machines, they should feel exactly the same!
It also means the monitor can take into account things like altitude, humidity, and dust when calculating metrics, which enables very accurate time, distance, speed, etc.
A lot of these formulas are proprietary and companies don’t disclose exactly how they are calculated.
With that being said, it is said the Body Solid R300 calculates data much like the Concept2. So they should be fairly close in accuracy.
Xebex also claims to be close to the same as Concept2 but studies have shown some differences in metrics.
At the end of the day, while the data may be close, you won’t be able to say 100% whether or not your times are comparable to times set on a Concept2.
This may not bother you at all but some people want to know how they match up to other people in their age group or to different Olympic Rowers, crew teammates, or Crossfit athletes.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Endurance R300 monitor is excellent and provides enough data and features for the average person.
If you are looking for additional features like online training, exercise programs, and highly accurate data recording, then the Concept2 is the one to go with.
Build Quality
The Endurance R300 Rower is a well-built rowing machine equal in quality to other high-end air rowers. So, it should be as durable as the C2 and Xebex when used properly.
However, while durable, the machine is less sturdy than the C2 in that it has less than half the weight capacity.
(See the User Height and Weight Capacity section further down for more details).
The Body Solid rower being in the same class as the Xebex and Concept2, it has to be able to endure brutal workouts to hold its own against these machines.
Indeed, it does have a good reputation with most users placing the R300 workout quality on the same level as the C2 and other heavy hitters.
The Body Solid R300 has a steel frame and aluminum seat rail, with high-quality plastics for the supplementary parts.
There is a semi-soft, semi-hard seat which is common on most rowers that are built for performance (which get a lot of complaints about causing sore butts).
Luckily, you can solve this issue easily and I recommend some good rowing seat cushions here.
The seat sits on top of smooth rollers with industrial-grade bearings and the footrests and handle are very durable.
It does come with a nickel-plated chain, which is said to add extra strength but I’ve never heard of regular chains breaking if they are oiled periodically.
The Body Solid R300 is heavier than the Concept2, which is surprising because they seem to be the same size. It is possible there are more steel parts on this model, which could make it heavier. Being heavier does add a solid base that makes it harder to move when rowing intensely.
Lastly, the R300 Endurance Rowing Machine has a very long warranty and is rated for light-commercial use – so you know Body-Solid is confident this rower can take a beating!
Overall, I don’t think you should have any worries about the build quality of this model!
Comfort
If you’re looking to row for long periods of time, then you need a comfortable rowing machine.
I will say the Body-Solid Endurance Rower is built more for performance than comfort, but that doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable!
First off, the rower is designed to enable a perfect rowing stroke. This is possible due to the handle going into the housing way in front of the users’ feet.
If you look at cheaper models, the handle may be forced to stop right in front of a user’s feet which means you really can’t extend your arms all the way forward when in the “catch” or “start” position.
Second, the seat rail is very long which enables a full stroke back, even if you are tall.
The ability to do a full rowing stroke from start to finish is the main reason this rower is so long.
Other features like the rollers and bearings make for a smooth rowing stroke and the resistance is excellent. There are no comfort downsides to the rowing stroke.
As previously mentioned, the seat can be a little hard but you want a more solid seat if you are looking to maximize your performance. If you want to row for an hour and your butt hurts, just buy a cushion.
Likewise, the handle is also built for performance and has a rubber grip that is comfortable but not squishy or foamy. If you don’t lift weights, garden, etc. you may develop some blisters at first.
Luckily, there’s a solution for that! Check out my best rowing glove article here.
Lastly, the footrests are made of strong, flexible plastic and the foot straps adjust nicely over your feet. The footrests can fit any shoe size and adjust easily.
There were really no gripes about the comfort beside the common seat and handle issues you hear about on most rowing machines.
Storage
Storing the rower is super easy and very similar to the Concept2. There are 2 ways to store the Body Solid R300.
First, you can remove the pin where the rail connects to the main housing (right near the footrests). You can then lift the seat rail and remove it from the main housing.
This allows you to flip the housing forward and place the seat rail upright. Essentially allowing the rower to store in the space of a regular kitchen chair.
Second, if your ceiling is tall enough, you can tip the rower forward and store it vertically.
This is how most Crossfit gyms store their rowers since it is fast and easy.
The Body Solid R300 comes with built-in caster wheels on the front of the rower so you can easily roll it around.
Another pro tip is to store the handle by allowing the chain to go as far into the housing as possible. This causes the least amount of tension on the recoil bungee and makes its elasticity last a bit longer.
Storing the R300 Rowing Machine is super easy and both ways can be done in a matter of seconds!
User Height and Weight Capacity
One slight downside of the R300 Rower is the weight capacity. It’s the same size as the C2 and other high-end air rowers, but not quite as sturdy.
According to Body-Solid, the maximum user weight capacity is 330 lbs.
This is quite a bit less than the Concept2 Model D and Xebex Rowers rated at 500 lbs.
While this may deter some users from purchasing, it should be ok for most users. I also think a lot of manufacturers are conservative with their weight capacities and someone slightly over 330 lbs could use the R300.
A lot of manufacturers are conservative with maximum weight capacities because it causes fewer warranty claims.
As far as height limitations, the Endurance R300 Rower can fit users up to 6’7″. The seat rail is very similar in length to the C2 and is designed for crew athletes, who are notoriously tall.
There are no restrictions for shorter users.
So as long as you are around 330 lbs and shorter than 6’7″ – you should have no issues with the R300 Rowing Machine.
Dimensions
- Assembled Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 95.10″ x 24.40″ x 39.80″
- Height is to the top of the monitor
- Shipping Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 57.28″ x 22.24″ x 14.96″
- Seat Height: 15.50″ from the floor
- Seat Rail Length: 47.0″
- Handle Length: 18.50″
- Assembled Weight: 81.1 lbs
- Shipping Weight: 99.0 lbs
Assembly
One thing no one likes is buying an item, getting excited to receive it, and then getting super stressed when the assembly is a nightmare!
Thankfully the assembly on the Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower is a piece of cake!
The assembly instructions in the manual are very straightforward and it will probably take a good 30-45 minutes to complete if you take your time.
There are a few more steps than the Concept2 (which comes mostly preassembled) but this is a one-time deal and once it’s assembled you’re done!
One thing to note, there is some small ongoing maintenance for this rower. The seat rail and rollers should be wiped down with a cloth and glass cleaner at least every other row. This helps keep the seat gliding smoothly and ensures no dents or grooves form on the seat rail.
You should also oil the chain with 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose Oil every few weeks to ensure it never rusts or gets dry.
There were no other complaints about assembling this model!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong resistance
- Smooth rowing stroke
- Great for tall users
- Easy-to-read monitor with great data tracking
- Excellent build quality
- Amazing warranty!
Cons:
- Monitor is not the “Gold Standard”
- Seat & Handle comfort issues (no different than other rowers)
- Only less expensive than the #1 bestselling rower.
Body Solid R300 Endurance Rower Reviews
The Body Solid R300 is fairly new (early 2019 release) and was not offered at the major retailers at first, but is now available at Walmart and Amazon where it’s accumulated some user feedback. It tends to get in the high 4/5 range.
I’ve had both clients and readers (also a friend) who own the machine and have heard mostly positive feedback from them. All who have used the Concept2, say the Body Solid rower is very similar in terms of stroke feeling, quality, and resistance.
Reviews tend to state the same and that the R300 is an overall solid air-resistance rower that’ll get the job done. Whether you are looking to train for Crossfit, get some good off-the-water crew training, or just general fitness exercises.
Average Rating: 4.7
Warranty
Now on to one of the most exciting features! (and it’s not even tangible!) The Body Solid R300 Endurance Rower offers the following warranties:
Home Warranty:
- Frame: Lifetime
- Parts: 5-Years
- Electronics: 2-Years (excludes batteries)
- Wear Items: 6-Months
- Labor: 1-Year
Light-Commercial Warranty:
- Frame: 15-Years
- Parts: 3-Years
- Electronics: 2-Yars
- Wear Items: 6-Months
- Labor: 1-Year
And here’s the kicker – the R300 comes with the home and commercial warranty out of the box!
So whether the unit is being used in your home or a training center, you get an outstanding warranty!
Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower Price
The Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower price is usually around $900 before taxes when purchased at major retailers. That’s for the machine and would be the total cost if shipping is included.
Major retailers are the best place to buy heavy exercise equipment including rowing machines, since they tend to include shipping and offer more buyer protections without the need for shipping insurance.
Body Solid Rower vs Concept 2
In comparing the Body-Solid R300 Endurance rower vs Concept 2 machines, key differences include the price, monitor, and weight capacity. The C2 is about $300-$400 more, has the better monitor and over double the weight capacity. Similarities include design and resistance type.
The R300’s weight capacity is 300lbs which is fine for most rowers but falls far short of the max user capacity of 1000lb typical of most high-end air rowing machines.
Both offer air resistance with damper settings and both come with similar seat assemblies, handles, and footplates. Thus, the feel throughout the rowing stroke is nearly identical.
Overall, both rowers offer the same great total body workout.
Body Solid R300 Rower Review: Conclusion
Overall, the Body-Solid Endurance R300 Rower is an excellent rowing machine. It ticks all the boxes for what you would want in your garage gym or fitness room.
If you’re on a budget and/or don’t need the fancy PM5 monitor, it’s the best air rower for the price.
With that said, if getting into the hobby of indoor rowing, the Concept2 is the way to go, since it’s the one you’ll need for competitions and the one you’ll use in rowing studios and CrossFit gyms.
You can read my full Concept2 review here to decide for yourself.
I’ve also mentioned the Xebex Rower a few times and you can read more about that rower here.
I even have a Concept2 vs. Xebex Rower comparison article.
Choosing a rowing machine is a difficult task, so please don’t hesitate to ask questions in the comment section below!
I hope you enjoyed this Body Solid Endurance R300 Rower review!
Rowing Machine King Founder and Author.
I just want to ask how it is compared with the c2 in terms of metrics (calories/meters) are they identical or there is some differences in times. I am thinking of buying one as it is the only option available in the market now
Hi Ali – thanks for reaching out! The C2 is going to have the most accurate metrics and currently, the C2 is the only rowing machine used to set world records and allowed to be used in indoor rowing competitions. This is due to the accuracy of the monitor.
Other monitors like the R300 and Xebex will be accurate but could be slightly off. It really depends on what you are using it for. If it is for general fitness purposes and wanting to track progress over time – then it will be fine. If you are training to compete or log your times online, then you will want a C2.
I bought the body solid r300 endurance recently as it was impossible to get hold of the concept2. I really love the R300 rower. The build quality looks industrial grade to me, and frankly I think the r300 looks a little cooler than the concept2. I’ve used the concept2 many times in the gym (but i wasn’t a regular rower) and to me the r300 feels identical in resistance and feel. I am very happy with the purchase. It worked out a little cheaper, but it was the availability that swung the original decision.
Thanks for the feedback Nate! Super helpful to all the readers who are trying to decide between the R300 and Concept2!
Moving from a lower priced magnetic resistance to r300 (no concept2s available) – not sure of accuracy of metrics from previous model – what is best way to measure progress and generally compare to users on concept2? Doesn’t look like r300 has split times and not sure about stroke width or stroke %.
Hi Steve – the monitor on the R300 is not going to be as accurate as the Concept2. For a full list of features and what they track it’s best to download the assembly manual here.
I don’t think there is an accurate way to compare times on the R300 to the Concept2. The accuracy of the PM5 is one of the main selling points of the C2 and it’s why rowers like the R300 can’t be used for World Records, Crossfit, etc. The Xebex Rower has a more comparable monitor to the C2 so that may be a model worth looking into.
Generally seems like a good rower, been good for me. One issue though is that two halves of the machine have come apart mid-row a couple of times (from the fulcrum in the middle where it’s supposed to be held together through opposite pressure). I’ve checked multiple times and I’ve constructed it correctly, so this might just be a flaw in the design.
I’m finding it impossible to take the two pieces apart. I’ve removed the pin but the two pieces won’t break apart at the connection point. Any words of wisdom?