air resistance

by
Air vs water rowing machine comparison

Choosing the right rowing machine for your home gym can be a perplexing task. With the market offering a variety of resistance types, the most prominent being water and air rowers, it’s essential to understand their differences and similarities. Both offer a comprehensive full-body workout, burning calories and improving cardiovascular health, yet they do so … Read more

by
Stamina Air Rower 1399 Review

Do you want an air-resistance rowing machine but don’t want to pay $1,000? The Stamina 1399 rower might be for you. I own and use the Conept2 but have had the chance to try several Stamina air rowers including the 1399 when training clients. It’s one of the better budget rowing machines I’ve tried. In … Read more

by
Xebex vs. Concept2 Comparison

Many people ask me to compare the Xebex vs. Concept2 rowing machines. “Are they the same?”, “Which is better?”, “Which one should I buy?”

I own the Concep2 Model D (now called the RowErg), but have had a lot of experience with Xebex rowers at gyms and when training clients.

Me on my Concept2 rower

In the past, I didn’t think the Xebex vs. Concept2 comparison was a hard choice, with the C2 being a clear winner. But do the new Xebex improvements change my mind.

I’ve liked the newer Xebex models much better the times I’ve used them and have received a lot of positive feedback from clients and readers. However, my opinion hasn’t changed much given some of the factors discussed in this article.

For those in a rush:

In comparing the Concept2 vs the Xebex rowers, the Concept2 is the better choice. For example, the Concept2 offers more options for tracking data, Bluetooth, and a backlit monitor. Xebex only offers these features with their premium models (Smart Connect) which cancels out the savings.

If the Xebex were significantly less expensive, it would be a great option. But since you have to pay for shipping (typically $300), you usually end up paying about the same.  

This varies I’m sure, and if you can catch one of the Xebex models at a steep discount, it might be worth picking one up.

Concept2 Model D: Check Lowest Price

Xebex Rower: Check Lowest Price

Read more

by
Xebex Air Rower

Today, we’re reviewing the Get RX’d Xebex air rower. There are several versions of the Xebex rower, including the 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0, some having the Smart Connect feature that lets you connect to different rowing apps via Bluetooth connectivity. I’ve used the Xebex rower a few times when training clients and have received a … Read more

by
NordicTrack RW200 Review

Today we’re reviewing the RW200 Rower. We’ll discuss the pros and cons and how it compares to other rowers in the same price range.

I have experience using the NordicTrack RW200 when training clients. So, while I don’t own it personally, I can review the model as someone having used the machine.

One thing I’ll say right off the bat is that it is a sharp-looking rower!

The NordicTrack RW200 rower in the living area of a home.

For those in a rush…

The NordicTrack RW200 is a good rower, but better options are available at the price point. For example, the Concept2 Model D is around the same price once you factor in shipping while offering a much better monitor.

So, I would recommend buying the Concept2 Model D over the RW200 Rower at this point.

Also, this rower is difficult to find these days at major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, etc. As you can see, it’s not even listed on NordicTrack’s website.

If you can find the RW200 used or at a steep discount (or locally so you won’t have to pay for shipping), I think it would definitely be worth picking up. While better options exist, it’s not a bad rower.

Read more

by
Featured image for Concept 2 model e review showing new and old version

Today, we’re reviewing the Concept2 Model E rowing machine. Officially, it’s been renamed the “RowErg with Tall Legs”. It’s the best rower on the market offering a realistic, comfortable rowing stroke, rugged construction (it’s used outdoors, in boat houses, etc.), and a top-tier performance monitor. I’m a longtime owner of a Concept 2 Model D … Read more

by
Concept 2 Model D now known as the RowErg

Welcome to my Concept 2 RowErg review. It’s one of the all-time great rowers and the one I currently own and use (I own the Model D which was a previous iteration). It’s the industry standard rower and thus the go-to model for indoor rowing enthusiasts since Concept2 makes the machines you’ll find in rowing … Read more

by
BodyCraft VR500 Rowing Machine Review

Today we’re reviewing the BodyCraft VR500 Rowing Machine. The brand has 3 rowers—the VR200, VR400, and VR500, so it’s the best of BodyCraft’s three-model lineup. I’ve tried all of their models at this point. The only one I didn’t like was the VR100 (no longer available). In short, the BodyCraft VR500 offers several great features … Read more

by
Lifecore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine Review

The LifeCore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine is a perfect blend of two great resistance types! With both air & magnetic resistance, users are sure to receive a smooth, consistent rowing stroke. Plus, LifeCore claims it is the only “commercial-grade” rowing machine to offer both air and magnetic resistance! The 16 levels of air/magnetic resistance is … Read more

by
Air vs magnetic rowing machine comparison

Recently many people have asked me, “What is the difference between an air vs. magnetic rowing machine?”

While many people can use their imagination to make a decent educated guess, I’m sure a lot don’t even know both exist!

Most people see a rowing machine in a gym and don’t think, “Is this an air or magnetic rower?” They just hop on and start rowing!

While both workout the same muscles, have the same functionality, and require the same technique, there are quite a few differences.

Read more

by
Review of ProForm 550R rower

Today, we’re reviewing the ProForm 550R rower. ICON Fitness is the ‘umbrella’ company that owns ProForm, NordicTrack, Gold’s Gym, and others. So, ProForm models are similar to NordicTrack in quality and feel. Update: availability varies with this machine and it seems the company website no longer offers it. You might be able to find it at … Read more

by

The Dynamic R1 Pro Rower is a great all around rowing machine that combines air and magnetic resistance. Users looking for very strong resistance will love this dual combination design. The 16 levels of adjustable resistance make it perfect for users of all ages and fitness levels. The Dynamic Fitness R1 Pro Magnetic Air Rower … Read more