ProForm vs Life Fitness for April 2025

Item: ProForm vs Life Fitness
Rating: 3
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Saturday, April 26th

2025 Rowing Machine Reviews

ProForm

Rower Type: Magnetic
Price Range: $699 to $1,403
Different Models: 2
Financing Available: Yes
Return Policy: 30 days
Warranty: 5 years frame, 1 year parts and labor
Shipping: Free

ProForm's business model is centered around its iFIT membership, which is required to purchase the "free" Pro R10 Rower. Without the no-cost plan, the rowers here are priced between $699 and $1,403, and come with a remote-controlled resistance system that automatically adjusts to the tempo of your workout. There are two models available: the Pro 750R with a basic LED display, and the Pro R10 with a 10-inch touch screen display. ProForm's Better Business Bureau page has received mixed reviews, with customers expressing frustration about warranty issues. However, the company's instructor-led sessions and affordable pricing may make their rowing machines a good choice for home workout enthusiasts.

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Life Fitness

Rower Type: Combination Air & Magnet
Price Range: $1,849 to $3,499
Different Models: 1
Financing Available: Yes
Return Policy: 30 days
Warranty: 3 years frame, 1 year parts and labor
Shipping: Depends on location

Life Fitness produces fitness equipment for public facilities and home gyms, including 2 rowing machines. Customers love the Row HX Trainer for its user-friendly assembly, smooth rowing experience, and sturdiness. Life Fitness rowers are more expensive than some comparable options and don't offer advanced tech or enhanced build quality. While the company is reliable, their return policy includes a 20% restocking fee and return shipping costs. All combined, that brings Life Fitness' rowing machines down in our rankings.

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The 10 Best Rowing Machines

Concept2

Hydrow

NordicTrack

Xterra

Water Rower

ProForm

Sunny Health & Fitness

Life Fitness

Echelon

Sole Fitness

Where Can You Find the Best Rowing Machines?

Rowing machines, or "rowers," have swiftly sailed into the mainstream fitness world, gaining traction as a one-stop solution for a comprehensive workout. They're not just about the sport of rowing anymore; they're about sculpting your body, boosting your cardio, and getting fit in a fun way. Rowing machines provide an all-in-one workout, working the legs, back, arms, and core.

So it should come as no surprise that rowing machines have become so popular. With rowing, you can elevate your heart rate and improve endurance without stepping outside. What's more, rowing is gentle on your knees and joints, thanks to the smooth motion and the seated position. The resistance can be adjusted to tailor the session - amp up the intensity for a challenge or keep it light and steady.

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Rowing Machine FAQ

What kinds of Rowing Machines are there?

There are four basic types, all classified by the type of resistance they provide. The rowers you may have seen at your local gym, CrossFit box or Orangetheory studio probably used flywheel or water resistance. Other rowing machines use magnetic or piston/cylinder resistance mechanisms.

Are Rowing Machines appropriate for beginners?

Absolutely! Rowing machines use up to 85% of your body, from the effort it takes to push backwards to the core strength needed to go back and forth and, of course, all of the upper body in the pull. Like any new exercise routine, you may find there's a learning curve to developing proper form, but it's one of the best low-impact workouts you can get.

I'm a more advanced athlete. Can I actually get a good workout on a home rower?

Yes! There are many workouts designed for all levels of fitness, including yours. You can also find communities that share rowing challenges -even worldwide! This is especially true if you use a Concept2 rower, which is considered as the "gold standard" when entering competitive times for races and recruiting.

Are Rowing Machines expensive?

Sometimes, depending on the model you select and how many features it offers. You'll see rowers ranging from under $300 to over $2500. You might be able to get low-interest financing from the retailer of the rowing machine you select.

Will a Rowing Machine take up a lot of room?

Most styles will have a certain minimum floor space when in use: you're pushing yourself back and forth along a track, so think about how long your legs extend from a bent position to a fully-extended one. However, if space is an issue, there are rowing machines that can be folded up when not in use (usually by placing the track in a vertical position).

What if my Rowing Machine arrives and it doesn't fit in the space I planned or I don't like it? Can I send it back?

Most retailers of Rowing Machines offer a return period of at least 30 days. But, keep in mind that you're usually going to be on the hook for return shipping fees, which can get expensive.

Do I have to pay extra for shipping?

Some rowers are delivered for free. Don't be surprised to see shipping costs upwards of $130, though: rowing machines are oversized and heavy.

Is set-up included in the delivery charge?

Generally speaking, you'll be the one setting up your rower. A few retailers might be able to connect you with a local professional who can do it for you, but you might want to try it yourself first. These machines are typically straightforward to get up and rowing.

Continued from above...

What are the different styles of rowing machines? Rowers come equipped with a variety of resistance types, each offering a distinct rowing experience. Each type caters to different preferences in terms of workout dynamics, noise levels, and maintenance needs.

Air (flywheel) resistance uses a spinning fan, and the intensity grows as you row harder, although it can be a tad noisy.
Magnetic resistance, on the other hand, employs magnets, allowing for a quieter, smoother row where resistance is manually adjusted and stays consistent regardless of how fast you row.
Machines with pistons or hydraulic cylinders create resistance through air or fluid-filled components, making them more compact and often more affordable, but they might not mimic the traditional rowing feel as closely.
Finally, water resistance models, featuring paddles moving through a water tank, will give you an experience closest to actual rowing, including the calming sound of water, but they're typically heavier due to the water component.

Are you seeking the ideal rowing machine for your personal gym space? Here's what you should consider as you shop:

Budget. Rower prices span a broad spectrum. While the high-end models (exceeding $2,500) boast state-of-the-art features, you can snag a reliable machine for under $300. No need to splurge to ensure a solid workout session.
Features. Think about what you really want in a rower. Is space-saving important? Do you want the ability to join real-time classes, akin to Peloton? Or maybe the aesthetic matters, with the machine's look needing to mesh with your existing gym equipment?
Return policy and warranty. Be future-ready. If your chosen rower isn't the right fit for your space or if you end up wanting a different resistance type, can you send it back? Beware of potential hidden costs like restocking or return shipping charges. Moreover, get clarity on the warranty - what's covered, from the frame to electronics?
Company credibility. Dig into user feedback. What's the buzz about the brand? Will they step up if challenges arise during shipment, setup, or regular use? Given that a rowing machine isn't a trivial expense, you want to ensure you're placing your trust in the right hands.

If you're looking for a comprehensive breakdown of the top machines on the market, Top Consumer Reviews is the right place to be. We hope these ranked reviews will help steer you toward a rowing machine that aligns with your fitness aspirations!