Finding a quality exercise machine can be tough, especially if you are a beginner. Again, you don't have to go through strenuous exercises to achieve your workout goals. If you have a quality rowing machine, you can enjoy low impact exercises from the comfort of your home.
As the name suggests, a rowing machine works like a rowing boat moving in the water. It provides you with a full-body workout, and it is great for people of all ages and fitness level. A rowing machine also works well for beginners and professionals. One of the best models that I would recommend is the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine. What makes this machine better than the many models on the market?
Well, let us find out some of the bestselling aspects of this rowing machine and what makes it better than the hundreds of models on the market. We will cover a full review of this workout machine and the benefits you will get from using this indoor rowing machine.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine Features & Benefit
This is one of the best full-body workout machines that is packed with a wide range of features. The machine is durable enough and indestructible, making it ideal for use in gyms and home. Here are some of the top features that make distinguish it from other models on the market.
Concept2 Model D Type of Resistance
This machine utilizes air resistance. This is a type of resistance that works by pulling the handle. Then spin the flywheel to remove the air in front of the wheel to create resistance. If you spin the flywheel fast, then more air is displaced, and the more the resistance you will get. In simple terms, when you are training with this rowing machine, you determine the level of resistance that you want.
The resistance of this machine is different from the one you will find in hydraulic piston rowers and magnetic rowers. Air resistance works like water resistance. This brings about a smooth resistance that many athletes love. In fact, the Olympic rowing teams utilize Concept2 Model D or E that provide resistance similar to rowing on water.
Build Quality
The Concept2 Model D machine provides a dependable performance as compared to other rowing machines that you will find on the market today. It has a simple and durable construction meaning that it will last long. This rowing machine is strong enough to handle even the most demanding workouts without compromising the performance.
Unlike other models on the market, this workout equipment doesn’t have cheap plastic parts. It is designed with base that features steel rear legs, aluminum front and stainless steel seat track. This tool is strong and durable and it doesn’t produce noise when the seat is rollingoe when you are pulling the handle. You will also not hear creaking or any other type of noise that is found in some cheap rowing machines on the market.
Another great thing that I love about this model is its design and size. This makes it a great addition to any home. The machine is easy to assemble, take apart, and store. Also, you can transport it with ease and keep it in a normal-sized car. If you are concerned about storage space, it separates into two units, which makes it pretty simple to store after workouts.
PM5 Monitor
Knowing or tracking your progress is essential when you are dealing with any fitness equipment. With this regard, this rowing machine features a PM5 monitor to motivate you as you work out. You can know different work out parameters such as pulse meter, heart rate, strokes per minute, distance, pace watts, and the number of calories you have burned. You can keep all these details in the internal memory or choose to store in USB flash drive.
Knowing such information makes your workout experience better and keeps you motivated. You can know if you are on the right track or whether you need to improve your workout. Also, it is easier for you to come up with a consistent workout routine.
The included Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) is self-calibrating to help you compare the results. In addition, you can connect it wirelessly to apps and heart rate belts which are not included in the package.
Low Impact Exercises and Weight Loss
This has been rated as the best indoor rowing machine that provides low impact exercises. It engages all your muscle groups hence giving you the most effective workouts. This rowing machine works well on your arms, legs, and core without straining any muscle of your body.
For those people who are struggling with weight loss, especially loosing belly fats, this rowing machine can help you achieve your fitness goals. When you are using this rowing machine, you can burn up to 600 calories in an hour. This shows how efficient the tool is as compared to other indoor workout machines. Once you combine exercises with a balanced diet, then you will not have trouble keeping fit and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Comfort Level of Concept2 Model D
One of the major considerations that you should check when you are buying a workout machine is comfortable. Not only should it provide you with effective workouts, but it should also be comfortable to use. The good thing is that any user can comfortably use this rowing machine without issues.
It has a comfortable seat that is padded to make it comfortable for users. Depending on the length of your workout and your body weight, you can make some few adjustments. Users also say that the seat can harden after using it for many years.
Additionally, it has footrests that adjustable to ensure you are comfortable when training. Unlike other rowing machines, you will not have issues with your feet slipping when you are rowing. Another aspect that you will love is the ergonomic handle that gives you a nice grip when you are working out.
Capacity
According to the manual provided, this rowing machine can accommodate users with a maximum weight of 500 pounds. There are many positive reviews from users who are above 300 pounds who have a great experience with rowing machines.
Short users find it pretty hard to use rowing machines. To solve this problem, the Concept2 model works well, even for short users because it doesn't have height limitations. Many short people who have had experience with this model find it effective.
Noise Level
If you have used other rowing machines that have other kinds of resistance, you will notice that the Concept2 model indoor machine is quiet. When you are using the machine, you will not experience squeaking during use. Its sound is similar to a fan, which is not disturbing. If you compare this rowing machine with other rowers, its noise doesn't bother you, so it will not be a nuisance.
Highlighted Features
- Designed with an ergonomic handle
- Adjustable monitor arm
- Adjustable resistance
- Caster wheels for easy transportation
- Quick-release frame lock
- Fan to reduce noise
- Separates into two units for easy storage
Pros
- The rowing machine is easy to assemble
- It offers a smooth feel
- Has minimal noise
- Easy to store
- Designed with backlit LCD display
- The rower is durable
- Comfortable to use
- Adjustable footrest to suit most users
Cons
- Price
Concept2 Model D
How Much Time Should You Rowing With The Concept2 Model D?
To answer this question, you need to determine your fitness goals? Do you want to lose weight? Cardio? Toning? Once you know what you want to achieve, then it is will be easier for you to determine how much you should row.
If you are into weight loss, determine the number of calories that you want to burn per day. For instance, to loose 2lbs in a week, then you need to burn 1000 calories per day. If you are doing aerobic exercises, 5-10 minutes of rowing is great. And if you want to boost your aerobic conditioning, then you need more than 20 minutes, say from 45-90 minutes.
For muscle building, there is no specific length of time that you should row. But for high-intensity interval training, you should row for a maximum of 10 minutes.
Should you purchase the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine?
This machine should be a suitable model if you are looking forward to serious and low impact exercise. The machine works great to engage your major body muscles. There are so many benefits that you will get from using this rowing machine. Some of them include the following:
- It is convenient and comfortable
- Helps you measure your progress with reliable and comparable data on every stroke
- Has a backlit LCD display that is easy on your eyes
- Allows wireless Bluetooth and it is compatible with heart rate monitoring apps
- Provides increased endurance and you can save your workouts to a USB flash drive that you can buy separately.
- You can control the flow of air by simply changing the damper.
- Gives you a low-impact cardio and low noise level.
- Great for upper and lower body workouts and provides a smooth feel.
- Suitable for aerobic and weight loss exercises
Benefits of Rowing Machine Exercises
A rowing machine is the best option if you want to lose weight, tone muscles or increase your stamina. This machine provides you with a wide range of benefits and helps you keep fit. The following are some of the benefits that you will get when exercising with this rowing machine.
Great Upper body workout
A rowing machine is one of the best options when it comes to toning and strengthening your upper body. It helps you exercise traps, lats, rhomboids and deltoids. This is essential in shaping your upper back and giving you a nice figure.
Burning calories and upper back fat loss
Another main benefit that you will get from using this rowing machine is effective burning of fats. Spending up to 10 minutes rowing can help you burn between 100-200 calories. This will vary based on your body weight, type of resistance and the intensity.
Having fats on your upper back shows that you have poor eating habits. Rowing machine can help you target your upper back and shed the extra fats. This will help in boosting your metabolism.
Full body workout
You don’t need separate machines to work your upper and lower body. With a rowing machine, you can enjoy a full body workout. With this rowing machine, it is easy to target your quadriceps, forearms, chest, core and biceps. Therefore, you can work out your full body without using different machines.
Good for heart and lungs
A rowing machine is perfect for cardiovascular and aerobic workouts. Not only does it boost your immunity but also improve your cholesterol levels. This means that it prevents you from risks associated with heart disease, obesity, stroke, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Improves your posture
If you do your rowing machine workouts correctly, it can help you improve your posture. The machine adds a good definition on your shoulders, lower back and upper back and makes you look taller.
Low risk of getting injuries
As compared to running or lifting weight, rowing machines have a low risk of injuries. As long as you put the right resistance, you can do your workouts safely without any risk of injuries. When your strength increases, this is the right time to add more resistance.
About Concept2 Brand
Concept2 is a brand with over 4 years of experience. They have been making quality and innovative products designed to meet the needs of users. In their series of rowing machines, the Concept2 Model D rowing machine offers effective full-body workouts. The items that are included in the package when buying this machine are model D user manual Performance Monitor 5 Computer, start guide, tools and assembly instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this machine easy to assemble, and does it need professional installation?
A: I purchased this towing machine a few months ago, and the set up was pretty easy. If you follow the instructions provide and you are familiar with the installation, it can take you less than one hour to assemble.
Q: How long does this rowing machine take to fold?
A: One thing that I love about this indoor rowing machine is the ease of storage. It folds in less than 30 seconds. Additionally, you can get a video on how you can assemble or disassemble this machine.
Q: Di I need to use a mat when using the Concept2 Model D?
A: In as much as it is not a necessity, it is good to have one. This can add more protection for your floors, and it will also ensure that the unit doesn't move when you are using it. A mat also plays a nigh role since the sweat doesn't have to drop on the floor.
Q: I bought this rowing machine, but I was wondering when to do the oiling?
A: According to their website, you need to oil the machine after 50 hours of use. Clean the chain first and then lubricate it with purified mineral oil. You can use a paper towel to apply the oil and rub it throughout the chain. If there is excess oil, you can wipe it off and then repeat the process.
Final Words
When it comes to indoor exercises, there are so many machines that you can find on the market. However, not all of them will provide you with a low impact full-body workouts. The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is reliable and unique equipment on the market. This machine provides you with natural and safe low impact exercises to help you achieve your fitness goals.
As compared to other rowing machines, this model doesn't cause injury or over-strain your muscles. It has a nice construction that encourages natural body movements. It gives your muscles equal training making it great for strength training and cardio. No one is limited to using this machine. It is suitable for people of all ages, fitness levels, or sizes.
Users also love the comfort and durability of this rowing machine. This is a great indoor workout machine that will provide you with great value for your money and incredible performance. Now, after going through this review, I'm sure that you are convinced and you will consider this workout machine for your indoor workouts.