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Tuesday, March 9th
Would you like a top-notch rower for free? ProForm has you covered - but you'll have to pay for an iFIT membership for 3 years (at $39/month) to qualify. That's no deal breaker if you want options for watching rowing videos timed to your workout or, even better, live instructor-led classes that automatically adjust your rower's resistance to match the pace of the class. This company has gotten its fair share of complaints from customers, especially when trying to get warranty service, but the BBB still gives this retailer an "A+".
LifeSpan offers two rowers for home use: a basic model for under $500 and a gym-level design for about $1,200. You'll get free shipping on either one, and this retailer has a great reputation for providing responsive service if problems arise. LifeSpan gives you 30 days to return your rower if needed - just expect a 15% restocking fee.
Maybe you got a taste at a HIIT class like Eat the Frog or Orangetheory, you're a CrossFit devotee, or you just get in a rowing session when you hit Planet Fitness or another gym. Many people have a love-hate relationship with this particular piece of fitness equipment, so we applaud you if you're looking for a quality machine to add to your home gym!
You probably know all of the reasons to love rowing machines: few cardio workouts give you the total body focus that's achieved while rowing. Generally speaking, a rowing routine uses 65-75% legs and 25-35% of the upper body - strengthening legs, arms, and abs all at the same time. That's efficient!
Another huge reason to take advantage of rowing is its low-impact style. There's no pounding on already-sensitive joints while using a rowing machine, just a push and a pull that glides back and forth with whatever amount of effort you choose to use.
What style of rowing machine is best? That largely depends on preference. Resistance comes in four ways: air (flywheel), magnetic, pistons or cylinders, and water. If you've used a machine at a fitness center, you're probably familiar with flywheel and water rowers already. Those styles also do the best job of imitating the feel (and the sound, for tank-base systems) of rowing in open water.
So, how can you tell which rowing machine is the right one for your home gym? Here are several criteria to keep in mind as you shop for a rower:
TopConsumerReviews.com has reviewed and ranked the best rowing machines available today. We hope this information helps you pick the right rower to meet all your health and fitness goals!
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