Need rowing machine thoughts?

[cleochatra]

My husband and I are looking at a second piece of equipment to supplement the treadmill, and we want an excellent all-over body cardio workout, but one that will fit into a reasonable amount of space.

So, we're shopping treadmills, and I've found one I really like.

There's a second one that can double as a recumbent bicycle. I'm not sure what I think about it, yet.

Does anyone have any thoughts in general about rowing machines? I know I'd use it, and my husband has used them before and loves them!

We're looking at the magnetic fly-wheel styles for functionality as well as portability. Here's are two we're looking at specifically. Any thoughts or experiences would be greatly appreciated.

My gut feeling tells me to go for the higher quality rower over the one that could be a rower and recumbent.

Here's the magnetic one link
Recumbent rower/bike combi link

[iyamamaschke]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

My thought on that is go for a higher quality one. I am one to spend good money on something I will use sometimes the cheap ones are all right but when the machine starts turning into somehting elese and thus there seems to become more problems with it in the terms of mechanical. I had a friend of mine who had a cheap bar style Rower man was it crappy it didn't flow and was horrid. The ones with the wheels or magnetcare far better machine. If you can Cleo I would really recommend you find somewhere that has these machines go in with your workout gear on I know it may feel funny and just try them all out. if your hubby is going to use it as well you should try and find one that fits the diversity between you and your husbands body type. I don't know if he is really tall or short but, my husbamnd is tall and what fits me doesn't fit him. When in doubt try them out.

I think having a rowing machine would be excellent and gives you a great upper body workout as well as leg workout man you jsut made me want to get one. Not only with this be a great alternative but, it will totally reshape you. WOOHOO

Take care Cleo

Sarah

[cleochatra]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

Thanks for the input Sarah!

Unfortunately, the biggest bummer is that there are no stores locally (at least no big box sporting goods stores) that have rowers on the floor. The hot items right now are recumbent bikes and the ellipticals.

I've nixed the two I've listed after doing more research, but now I'm comparing a WaterRower with a Concept2 rower!

They are more quality, will accomodate people of varying heights and weights, and both are very highly touted. The hard part now is trying to choose between the two!

I like the less noise aspect of the waterRower, but the Concept2 is highly touted for many reasons, and, even though it is more noisy, seems to be what a lot of people recommend.

I agree that the rowers are an excellent whole-body workout machine! I'm going to call my SIL tonight who's rowed collegiately and ask her which rower she'd go with.

Thanks again!

[cleochatra]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

Hubby's on his way to buy a Concept 2, used, that we found on craigslist. So if anyone has questions about rowing machines, ask away and I'll share the experience.

[cleochatra]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

We have it set up and have tried it out. It's an incredible workout. After only 10 minutes, my legs and arms are rubber. You wouldn't believe I'm actually typing with my nose!

*kidding*

The machine even shows proper form, and it is extremely quiet. I was impressed with how quiet the machine actually is. I am not interested in the ergs or anything remotely like competing in rowing, so the "calories burned" mode is really pretty wonderful.

Just some feedback on the Concept2 itself, and kudos to craigslist for my being able to get one!

[iyamamaschke]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

AWESOME Cleo enjoy the burn baby!!

[ttdriver]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

YAY CLEO!!!


Betty

[Desertthorn]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

I read that a rowing is the best workout for the whole body there is as it works both legs and arms. Great choice

[cleochatra]

Re: Need rowing machine thoughts?

Thanks for the kudos, guys! It is really a good workout. I agree, Lynne-- it is the best workout for the entire body, but without straining it much.... and I can't fall off of it easily.