My Thoughts:
We live in an area that doesn't have a gym, so this is the first rowing machine any of us has used. Keeping that in mind, this is coming from a novice point of view.
The machine itself weighs about 90 pounds, and arrived needing assembly. All tools and materials were included, so it was just a matter of about 30 minutes to get the whole thing out of the box and assembled. The directions were clear and easy to follow. All pieces were made of heavy steel and the bolts were some of the biggest I have ever seen! The main part that houses the electronics has a plastic cover and is of a pleasing design and color.
When fully extended and ready for working out on, the unit measures about 7 feet. The manufacturer's description said the unit can be folded for space saving when not in use. It does compact nicely, with measurements of 54"h x 34"d x 20"w and this is obtained by folding the unit up in front of the seat.
The unit seems to be of good quality. The seat is well padded and very comfortable and the handles are nicely padded and are comfortable to grip. The foot rests are adjustable and fit each member of our family nicely. The seat quietly and easily glides on the beam.
We have 4 in the family - 2 teens and 2 adults. The unit works well with each having different strength programs that each family member prefers. My husband, who was far from interested in a rowing machine, is using it daily and has customized his own workout. He LOVES it, and is amazed at how much of a workout one can receive for the small amount of time that is spent on the machine.
A real plus for us is how quiet the unit is. One can work out and not disturb the rest of the family. I like using it early in the morning, and my husband likes using it late in the evening and it doesn't disturb anyone. The kids like using it when they are watching TV or listening to music and being quiet as the unit is, they can listen at normal levels.
There were a few drawbacks:
*Since we are new at using a rowing machine, we found no instruction in the book on how to use it. I know that it's not rocket science, but there were warm-up exercises included, but nothing else. If you know how to use a rowing machine, wouldn't you also know how to warm up? That, of course, was easily remedied - online videos are easy to find.
*The heart monitor that belts around the torso doesn't agree with my husband. Not sure why, but he has had trouble with it from day one. He doesn't like how it fits so he doesn't use it. I'm wondering if it is because of his broad chest. Other family members don't have this complaint.
*My husband thinks the handles should be bent forward a bit, instead of straight across. He thinks it would be more comfortable to use. The rest of us don't have a problem with them the way they are.
*My husband is over 6ft. tall with long legs. He has come close to the end of the beam when he was enthusiastically working out. There is no stop at the end and could be a problem for a very tall person.
*The directions on how to use the programs could be a bit more clear and easier to use. A little more in-depth explanation about each program would be nice.
I love the design, the ease in use, and the compactness of the Velocity Fitness Magnetic Rower. It has been nothing except a wonderful addition to my family's workout routine. If you have only enough money to buy one machine for your fitness program, this is the only one you really need. It works all your muscle groups and gives you a wonderful aerobic workout.
Product was sent through the Amazon Vine Program for me to test and honestly review.
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