Off topic: Rowing Machine recomendations

Steve West

Not quite Tri gear but wanted to hear if anyone has or uses a rowing machine for non tri-fitness.

My wife Carole is thinking of getting a rowing machine for cardio and fitness.  So far I have seen lots of 'toys' from some of the big-box stores and a few nicer erg machines based on review sites.

From what I have seen one of the best is from OarTec called the 'Slider' http://www.oartec.com/index.php .  Others include various models of WaterRower  http://www.waterrower.com/professional.php but not sure I like the idea of having a mildew bucket designed to grow stuff; and a Concept2 Model D on Amazon.com.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

Woody Freese

Concept Two makes the best - hands down. You can find them gently used, or contact them directly and tell them you saw them at the IM LP expo. Great company and an even better product!!

RHolmes

My husband is interested in a rowing machine for general fitness. Do you think it provides any noticeable benefits for a triathlete...besides just staying fit in an off-season sort of way?

Paul Hough

I have used a Concept II rower at the gym ... folds and rolls away easily and worked great. If I was buying one, that is what I would get.

robin sarner

there is no doubt.   Concept II is it.     this is the only machine high level rowers use.     

Our Coach P was a rower right?      Message him.     

I have an adapter from Vermont Waterways that converts the Concept II into a paddler.      I used to race outrigger canoes.

John Withrow

I have the Concept II model D. I think it is the gold standard for rowing machines. I got it on eBay (surprise...) several yrs ago for around $700. I still think that a rowing machine is the single best ROI for a general workout as far as actual workout achieved per unit of time... However, I have bearly
used it at all since getting heavy into tri training. I seem to spend all of my time either biking or running. Now that you brought it up, maybe I get back on that torture device...

Steve West

Wow, a unanimous reco for Concept II! Couldn't be more clear about which one is the best.

Thanks for the input. I'll let you know which model and CPU she ends up with.

Coach Patrick

oooh....concept 2 it is. and it's great for circuit workouts or non-running workouts...the original total body machine....

Steve West

Ended up going with the Concept II Model D with the PM4 head unit.

Ordered on Monday and is getting delivered today......

Thanks for pointing us in the right direction!