I’m a big fan of fitness machines that provide a full-body workout. I like to get my cardio in while also working my muscles, so when I tried the old bungee rope indoor rower at the gym I was intrigued. But after using it for a while, I quickly realized that it had some major flaws.
The biggest issue was the resistance. It was incredibly unrealistic and made it really difficult to row properly. This not only made the workout less effective, but it also made it really frustrating. Additionally, there was no way to track my progress or see how well I was doing on the machine. This is something that is really important to me when I’m trying to stay motivated during my workouts.
I first saw the Concept2 RowERG when I switched to a larger commercial gym and was able to try one of the many they had there. I immediately liked how smooth the resistance was, and how easy it was to get started.
When I was starting to build my home gym, an indoor rower was a necessity. It is honestly the only form of cardio I actually enjoy. Considering how well the Concept2 rowers hold up at the gym, I decided to purchase one for myself.
What is a Concept2 RowERG?
The Concept2 RowERG is a rowing machine that uses air resistance to provide a smooth, realistic feel. It is one of the best-selling rowers in the world and Concept2 is based in the US. They also make indoor skiers, indoor bikes, and rowing oars.
The main benefit of the Concept2 RowERG is that it provides a full-body cardio workout. It is also easy to assemble and move around and is very sturdy when rowing. It comes with the PM5 performance monitor that is easy to use and navigate and can be connected to a number of fitness apps.
Pricing
The Concept2 RowERG retails for $990. It is a quality machine built to last, and the comprehensive warranty ensures that you can use it for many years. The price may seem a bit high, but when you compare it to other rowing machines on the market, it is actually very reasonable. Additionally, the RowERG offers a full-body cardio workout that is not available with other cardio equipment.
Features
PM5 performance monitor
The Concept2 RowERG comes with the PM5 performance monitor. This monitor is easy to use and navigate, and it can be connected to a number of fitness apps. The PM5 monitor tracks various data, including distance, speed, time, calories burned, and stroke rate. This information can be helpful in tracking your progress and seeing how well you are doing on the machine.
The PM5 also comes standard with a couple of games to keep your attention off of the fact that you’re exhausted and want to quit! The games are pretty basic but I found myself staying on the rower for a few more mins playing the fish game.
Air Resistance
The air resistance on the Concept2 RowERG gives a smooth, realistic feel that is easy on the joints. The more effort you put into each stroke the harder it will be.
There is a damper on the side of the flywheel housing that can be adjusted to change the feel of each stroke. It opens to allow more air into the fan housing making the flywheel stop quicker between strokes, The damper can be adjusted to 10 different settings with settings 1-4 feeling like a sleek racing boat, and the higher numbers feeling like you’re in a slow row boat. Additionally, the machine is very quiet when in use, which makes it ideal for use in a home gym.
Durable Construction and comprehensive warranty
The Concept2 RowERG is very sturdy when rowing. It is also very durable, which is important for a machine that will be used frequently. The comprehensive warranty ensures that you will be able to use the machine for many years.
The Warranty details:
- Frame Parts – 5 years
- All other Parts – 2 years
Mobile and easy to Store
The Concept2 RowERG weighs only 57lbs and is easy to assemble and move around. It is also very easy to store, as it can be separated into 2 parts and put away when not in use.
Full Body workout
The RowERG provides a full-body cardio workout. This is because rowing uses all of the major muscle groups in the body. Additionally, the RowERG is low-impact, which means that it is easy on the joints.
First Impressions
Assembly was a breeze! I had the rower set up, the packaging cleaned up, and was changed into gym gear for a workout in under 20 minutes by myself.
I was impressed with how light and easy to move around the RowERG was. I can easily lift the back of the rower up with one hand while vacuuming underneath. My rower is currently set up in my carpeted basement and I recommend this mat that fits perfectly underneath it.
I found the seat to be quite uncomfortable. After my first 30 min rowing session, I was pretty sore and I have a little more padding than most people! I found this cushion on amazon and it made a world of difference to me.
Thoughts on Using the Concept2 RowERG
I have been using the Concept2 RowERG at home for about 2 years now and I am still really enjoying it. It is a high-quality machine that works as well today as it did when I first opened the box. The only maintenance I do is cleaning it after a workout, and after it’s been sitting for a while to get the dust off the rail, and lubricating the chain every 6 months or so.
The PM5 monitor is easy to use and navigate, and it can be connected to a number of fitness apps. It tracks various data, including distance, speed, time, calories burned, and stroke rate. This information can be helpful in tracking your progress and seeing how well you are doing on the machine.
The PM5 also comes standard with a couple of basic games to help maintain a steady stroke rate and power output, as well as keep your attention off of the fact that you’re exhausted and probably want to quit!
The air resistance on the Concept2 RowERG gives a smooth, realistic feel that is easy on the joints. The more effort you put into each stroke the harder it will be.
There is a damper on the side of the flywheel housing that can be adjusted to change the feel of each stroke.
I found the seat to be quite uncomfortable, and a seat cushion is almost a necessity.
The Concept2 RowERG is lightweight and easy to move around the room. I can easily lift the back of the rower up with one hand while vacuuming underneath.
The phone/tablet holder is a great addition to the machine. It allows you to view your workout data on the screen while you are rowing.
Overall, I am really happy with the Concept2 RowERG. It is a high-quality machine that is easy to use and navigate. The only downside is that the seat is not that comfortable. However, this can be easily remedied with a seat cushion. I would highly recommend the Concept2 RowERG to anyone looking for a high-quality rowing machine.
Final Thoughts
I have never been a fan of cardio. In fact, I used to HATE it. But the Concept2 RowERG makes it slightly more bearable!
Rowing is the only form of cardio that I actually enjoy because of the fact it’s a total-body workout that is low-impact and easy on the joints. Rowing feels more like an enjoyable leisure activity than a dreaded workout.
If you’re looking for a quality rowing machine that is easy to use and navigate, the Concept2 RowERG is a great option. Mine has been going strong without issues for over 2 years. I highly recommend the Concept2 RowERG to anyone looking for an enjoyable cardio workout.
Pros:
- – Easy to set up
- – Lightweight and easy to move around
- – Tracks progress with PM5 monitor
- – Games to help keep you entertained
- – Air resistance gives a smooth feel
Cons:
- – Uncomfortable seat (but this can be remedied with a seat cushion)
- – PM5 screen is very basic compared to some of the interactive models
FAQ
How long does it take to set up the Concept2 RowERG?
The Concept2 RowERG is very easy to set up. It took me less than 15 minutes to get it out of the box and set it up in my living room
Is the Concept2 RowERG a good workout machine?
Yes, the Concept2 RowERG is an excellent workout machine. It provides a great cardio workout that is low-impact and easy on the joints.
How often do you need to lubricate the Concept2 RowERG?
The Concept2 RowERG chain must be lubricated every 50 hours of use to keep the warranty in effect. The seat rail also needs to be kept clean,
What is the weight limit on the Concept2 RowERG?
The weight limit on the Concept2 RowERG is 500lbs.
Is the Concept2 RowERG easy to move around?
Yes, the Concept2 RowERG is very lightweight and easy to move around. I can easily lift it up and roll it to another room.
Does the Concept2 RowERG come with a phone/tablet holder?
Yes, the Concept2 RowERG comes standard with a phone/tablet holder. This is a great addition that allows you to view your workout data on the screen while you are rowing.
