Foo - Should I get a rowing machine?

It certainly seems better than that torture machine, otherwise known as the trainer.

It certainly seems better than that torture machine, otherwise known as the trainer.

I personally never liked any exercize machines and I've never seen anyone use any machine for any real lenth of time before "storing" it in the garage or shed. ;)

one big difference is that I don't like water or water activities, so that means I don't really like floating on water in a boat either.

Got a buck to risk?
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/hab/2138275857.html

Yes definitely, and sex machine next. I think everyone should have torture machine, rowing machine and a sex machine.

I've tried some really cheap rowing machines in the past. Not worth the effort, and you'll probably only use it for a short time before you get bored with it. Make sure you try it out before you buy it.

I had rowing machine growing up. All it ever did was strengthen my forearms. If I stuck with it I would have looked like Popeye.

I can't stand exercising on any stationery machines like rowing. Tread machines are the worse. I get really bored fast.

one big difference is that I don't like water or water activities, so that means I don't really like floating on water in a boat either.

So why the hell are you thinking of getting a rowing machine! :twitchy: you do know that rowing is a water activity! LOL! ;0)

I have had many years of enjoyment out of my Concept 2 C rowing machine. An excellent exercise for the full body and maintaining aerobic levels. It does a better job of flexibility training than did my former winter aerobic exercise, the Precor XC skiing machine. Which unfortunately broke and I could not get parts, so I had to junk it.

Yes definitely, and sex machine next. I think everyone should have torture machine, rowing machine and a sex machine.

Ever since I saw Woody Allen's "Sleeper", I've thought an Orgasmatron would be a handy household appliance.:thumb:

My opinion as to whether you get one or not is biased (I'm a rowing coach), but if you do go down that path make sure it is a decent machine.

Concept 2 is the benchmark. You might be fine purchasing a second hand older machine (B or C model) and then some spare parts for it (cables, bungy cord, chain) rather than paying out full price on a new D/E model. Also check to see if there is a rowing club (or college with a rowing program) nearby that may have an older machine for sale.

Also - WaterRower and RowPerfect machines are good.

I bought my Concept 2 Model C with the PM3 monitor/heart rate option back in 2001. I think that with the monitor add-on and shipping, it arrived at my door for about $ 800 from the factory. Used models rarely show up on Craigslist here, and are snapped up almost immediately for about 70-75% of the new price.

There is very little functional difference between the Model C, D and E, so if you can find an older Model C or D for a reasonable price, snatch it up. If you don't someone else will.

JonnyHK, as a rowing coach, if you have any words of wisdom or recommendations as to rowing websites or the like, I would be all ears! I have been rowing steadily for about 10 years now, but can always learn something new.

I love my C2 rower. We have a D and it is now 8 yrs old and functions like new.

Skip the rowing machine and do all the rowing manually. It's more fun and you'll get a great workout!

JonnyHK, as a rowing coach, if you have any words of wisdom or recommendations as to rowing websites or the like, I would be all ears! I have been rowing steadily for about 10 years now, but can always learn something new.

rowingillustrated
row2k
rec.sport.rowing

Wisdom? How about some coaching 101...
"push the boat with your legs, don't pull the oars with your arms"
"connection: blade with water, feet to boat, hands to hips"
"don't choke the oars by gripping too tight - feel the boat and let it tell you things"

But you get better by having good face to face coaching and then practicing a lot. I'll answer specific questions by PM.

I love my C2 rower. We have a D and it is now 8 yrs old and functions like new.

These machines are truly built like the proverbial brick outhouse. The only thing that really needs to be updated on the older machines is the monitor. Having the newer computer with HR and the datacards is nice.


Skip the rowing machine and do all the rowing manually. It's more fun and you'll get a great workout!

He doesn't like the water, so it kinda rules that out. Pity though - rowing can be such a graceful and peaceful activity.

Concept 2 with some spare parts? I'll look into that.


So why the hell are you thinking of getting a rowing machine! :twitchy: you do know that rowing is a water activity! LOL! ;0)

well, I did try the one at a YMCA gym, and it was actually pretty fun.

I run on the treadmill 4-5 times a week 4-5 miles each time. I think machines are great if you keep yourself occupied while doing them. I watch movies. Currently in the player? black hawk down.

We have a great gym where I work...all top notch machines, including two C2 rowers. I can tell you this -- the rowing beats the living crap out of me! My typical workout on the rower is pretty simple - row 5K with the goal of keeping my current 500m pace under my average 500m time....so I have to get faster and faster. By the time I finish I'm ready to throw up. None of the other machines - ellipticals, bikes, treadmills - have that effect on me, even if I'm pushing with the same perceived effort.

If that's what you're looking for, go ahead and get one.

I long ago found out that if I had to do indoor exercise, I have to make it as pleasant as possible for me to do it. I have the rower and a Precor semi-recumbent bicycle. Both of them are set up in my computer room where I can watch TV and have a fan blowing on me whilst I exercise. It helps keep my mind of the boredom of indoor exercise.