Buying A Rowing Machine?
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It is also a low impact sport making it safe for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Although rowing a safe exercise it is still important to know how to use it - see my guide to rowing machine technique.
What To Consider When
Buying A Rowing Machine
How often will I use it? If only occasional use is envisaged and space is limited a small collapsible rowing machine would be better. Hydraulic machines tend to be the smallest and if you are not going to be a regular user it will still last for several years before any parts need replacing. If you are going to use it everyday then a hydraulic machine is not a good idea. You will need to spend more for a higher range machine designed for heavy use.
Some machines are foldable and easier to store away when not in use. Another consideration is the noise. If you are likely to annoy your neighbours then a silent magnetic rower will be the best option.
Do I need a workout monitor with my machine?
Often you will find that the computer is an optional extra, sometimes adding up to $200 to the price of your machine. Although this may seem a lot many people like this feature because it will record your distance, time and stroke rate. This information can act as a motivator as you can set targets and measure your progress. When buying a rowing machine it is important to check out this sort of feature and it could help with your training program.
Does the machine have variable resistance?
The majority of rowing machines will have this feature but do check the range. A wide range can be useful as this enables you to use your machine for an anaerobic workout by increasing the resistance.
Should I try the machine first?
Ideally when buying a rowing machine you should try the machine for several minutes to check the motion and seat comfort. If buying online perhaps you could visit a gymnasium and try some of the models. If this is not possible and you do not have a fitness equipment supplier nearby, check the policy on returns of your online supplier.
Is the machine adjustable?
Check that you can adjust the position of the seat and foot pads – essential if you intend to share with someone else.
Do I exceed the machines weight limit?
Something that is often neglected when buying a rowing machine, but each model will have a safe weight limit. You could invalidate the warranty if you exceed this limit.
Can I justify the cost?
Buying a rowing machine can be quite expensive so do be sure that you are going to use it. Membership of a gym may be another option as one years fee could be far less than a machine plus you get access to all the other machines.
Should I consider second hand?
Buying second hand is another option but do look for signs of excessive wear such as excessive noise when in use or a worn down seat and foot pads. You would be better off buying second hand from a private user rather than a gym as the amount of use will differ dramatically.
Many machines offered second hand will still be in very good condition due to underuse! Make sure you don’t do the same and check your reasons thoroughly first.
Where shall I put it?
Your machine will need to be used in a room with good ventilation because you will need plenty of oxygen in a good session. Many users like to watch tv or listen to the radio or music – but don’t let it distract you from your technique.
What Type Of Rowing Machine Is Best For Me?
We have looked at some points to consider when buying a rowing machine and these will influence what type of model you will settle for. There are four different ways to provide the resistance for the rowing action on a machine, these are:-|
1. HYDRAULIC Uses oil in cylinders to provide resistance. Prices start around $160 Advantages: inexpensive tend to be small units so storage is easy Disadvantages: action is not as smooth as other types can be susceptible to leaking over two years which will make it unusable |
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2. AIR Air flows over a flywheel to create water resistance. Prices start around $200 but to get a quality machine you would need to think about spending at least $400 + Advantages: wide range of resistance available replicating rowing on water, i.e., the faster you row the greater the resistance. Disadvantages: Noise, air resistance machines can be quite noisy especially as you increase your rate |
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3. WATER Resistance is provided by water pressure in a cylinder. Prices start around $1000 Advantages: authentic feel of water very smooth action many people like the sound of the water whooshing as your row Disadvantages: are expensive, tend to be bulkier than other rowers will require more maintenance than other types as the water may need replacing at intervals |
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4. MAGNETIC Resistance is achieved by an adjustable magnet Advantages: almost silent operation smaller than air and water machines for easy storage little or no maintenance required Disadvantages: not really a disadvantage but if you like to hear the sound of water when you row you won’t get it with this type of machine |
Recommended Buys
Be prepared to pay a little extra as the better machines will have smoother action and usually a more comfortable seat! It is false economy, especially when buying a rowing machine, to get a low cost model that you may find difficult or uncomfortable to use. You just won’t use it and your initial objective for buying it will not be met.Personally, I think the best rowing machine on the market is the WaterRower. As its name suggests it is a water resistant machine and a very high quality one at that. The WaterRower's patented Water Flywheel uses paddles to connect to a moving mass of water. Like rowing, the connection is fluid, there is no impact, jerkiness and jarring typical of lesser rowing machines. The WaterRower's unique patented Water Flywheel has been designed to emulate the dynamics of a boat moving through water.
If buying a rowing machine and this one is within your budget you can’t go wrong. Prices start around $1000, it’s not cheap but it will give you years of enjoyment, not to mention the fitness benefits.
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BigFitness.net to bring you quality products at competitive prices, check out their range of rowing machines here
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