I did a lot of research before buying a rowing machine. However, in the end, I realized that Concept2 Rowers stand in a league of their own. I bought a Concept2 Model D indoor rower, and here’s why…
My Review of the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine:
I first learned of the Concept2 rowers through my Crossfit gym. I used the Model E for a few years and liked the smooth pull and strong resistance. However, at that point I couldn’t compare it to other brands.
As you may have already discovered, you can find plenty of rowers that cost significantly less. Some even cost half as much. Why would I want to pay so much money for a Concept2 rower?
How do Concept2 Rowing Machines Compare?
That’s when I realized how quiet and smooth the chains on these machines really are (compared to their competitors). In addition, you can really get an intense strength training workout from simply rowing on a Concept2. I mean, my back, arms and legs truly get a workout.
Besides getting a thorough full-body workout in under 30 minutes, this indoor rowing machine provides a great warm up too. I just decrease the intensity and slow down my pulling, and I can prepare my body for a weight training session, HIIT training or even a run.
Do Concept2 Rowers Last?
Since I’ve had first-hand experience with Concept2 rowing machines that get a lot of use, I can attest to how well they hold up.
Plus, their high-quality, durable construction turns them into low-maintenance fitness equipment. In other words, they don’t get all squeaky on you. You know what I’m talking about. =)
Don’t Base Your Decision on the Rowing Machine Alone:
Of course, getting a good rowing workout is more than just buying the best rowing machine. You also want to learn proper form to maximize your strength-building results. In addition, mixing up your workouts will help you stay motivated and enjoy rowing more. Here are my tips:
- Learn proper rowing technique
- Download some rowing workouts
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower Specs:
- Assembled Machine Dimensions: 96″ Long x 24″ Wide x 44.5″ Tall
- Floor Space Needed: 9 feet x 4 feet
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
- Color Options: Black or Light Grey
- Price: $900-$1000
- Manufacturer: Concept2
- Get the Model D Here (with free shipping)
Whether you are training for races or you simply want a fitness program you can do at home, the Concept2 Rowing Machine is an awesome machine that can help you get results faster. Here’s why…
This Workout Equipment Won’t Annoy You
As with any home fitness equipment, you want something that is easy and convenient to use. If it annoys you too much, you won’t enjoy using it. Then you will end up using it less until it ends up collecting dust in your garage.
We don’t want that!
Cheaply made equipment that ends up squeaking after a while is annoying. Loud rowers that overpower the sound of your TV or stereo are annoying too. If the rower doesn’t provide ergonomic features that make it comfortable to row, that’s more than just annoying. It’s awful!
The Concept2 Indoor Rower Produces Minimal Noise
The Concept2 creates minimal noise because of its flywheel design. This feature also enhances the smoothness of the rowing movement, letting you focus on your technique… or the TV (did I just say that?)
This machine has a naturally-positioned ergonomic handle, and you can adjust the footrests to fit your size. This helps provide maximum comfort while rowing, as if breathing like a horse and sweating your butt off wasn’t comfortable enough.
This Indoor Rower is Easy to Move, Set Up & Put Away
Another thing that I’ve discovered over the years (like everyone else and their brothers) is that if your workout machine is in a dark basement, lonely garage or worse yet – the overcrowded guest bedroom – you’ll slowly stop using it.
That’s why it’s key to get equipment that you can move and set up in under 30 seconds. This way, you can position yourself in front of your favorite TV in the living room or outside on the patio on a sunny day, etc..
It’s super lightweight on one end so that you can pick up with a few fingers (seriously) and then roll it around using the wheels on the other end. You can store it standing up against a wall or fold it for more compact storage.
The Perfect Full-Body Rowing Workout in Under 10 Minutes
I’ve done my share of 2,000 meter, 8-minute rowing workouts that left me feeling flat out exhausted – and triumphant because I wasn’t dilly-dallying around at the gym for an hour. Note that I allowed an extra 2 minutes for machine set up and break down. 😉
Of course, that pace will be slow to some and fast to others. However, the point is that you can set your own challenging 1,000 meter pace and get an excellent aerobic and body-toning workout daily without having to inconvenience your day too much.
The Concept2 Performance Monitor (Included) Tracks all Your Stats for You
The Concept2 can track your distance, speed, pace, calories and watts for you, making it easier and more fun to challenge yourself. I really like the “pace” tracking feature because it makes it a lot easier for me to push through periods in my workout where I start to slack.
The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rower also has pre-set workouts to choose from. Plus, it includes a variety of visual settings on the monitor screen, including pace boats and technique help. The bottom line is that it has all the high-tech ergometer options that you’d want to keep your exercise challenging and interesting.
