If they’re good enough for Olympic-level athletes to train with, they might just be what you need for your own full-body workout. The Concept2 Models D and E are indoor rowing machines used by the pros. Let’s look at the reasons why and see which model will help you get in shape.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
Concept2 says the Model D is the bestselling indoor rower in the world.One of the reasons that indoor rowers in general are popular is that they provide a low-impact way to exercise with less chance of injury. Also, a user can build muscles and get a cardiovascular workout at the same time. The Model D is popular because it’s very durable and has a lot of excellent features.
First off, there’s the Performance Monitor 5. It’s got a backlit LCD display that shows distance, speed, pace, calories burned and watts, too. The monitor’s arm can be adjusted to make the screen easier to see or reach. But wait, it’s more than just a display. The Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) works in multiple languages. It has preset workouts, games, and its data can be saved to a flash drive and transferred to a computer. Or better yet, the PM5 can connect to heart rate monitors wirelessly through Bluetooth Smart and ANT+. You can even use the wireless connection to race another rower at another machine!
Second, the rower is quiet when it’s in use. Both of these models require very little maintenance: just oil on the chain once in a while. You can change how the stroke feels if you adjust the air flow to the flywheel with the damper.
Then there’s the rugged structure of the rower. The frame’s legs in the front are aluminum and in the back are steel. The frame supports users weighing up to 500 pounds.The seat is 14 inches high, which may be too low for some people to use comfortably. The Model E, described below, addresses that issue.
To make the rower more comfortable, the footrests are adjustable and the handle is ergonomically shaped. The rail measures 54 inches long. Concept2 warns that persons with an inseam longer than 38 inches will need a longer monorail, but they have that option available.
If the Model D needs to be stored, it can separate into two parts without the use of tools.It weighs 57 pounds but it has caster wheels to make it easy to move.
More features of the Concept2 Model D
- The Model D needs a space measuring 4 by 9 feet
- The frame is powder-coated and comes in black or gray
- The rower comes with a manual and tools for assembly
- The Performance Monitor 5 needs two D batteries
- Concept2 offers a five-year warranty on the frame, two years on the Performance Monitor and moving parts
- There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee
Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
The Model E indoor rower has just a couple of differences from the Model D. Most importantly, it has a seat height of 20 inches. This makes it easier for persons with less mobility to mount and dismount.
The Model E frame is heavier. The legs are all steel, which makes the rower weigh 65 pounds. It’s still rated for up to 500 pounds.
Other than these things, the two models are the same, down to their Performance Monitor 5 described above.
More features of the Concept2 Model E
- The Model E needs 4 by 9 feet of space
- The rower comes with a manual and tools for assembly
- The Performance Monitor 5 needs two D batteries
- Concept2 offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, a five-year warranty on the frame, and two years on the Performance Monitor and moving parts
Recommendation
Either rower comes highly recommended. If you have the desire to work out but little motivation to run or hit the gym, these rowers might be the ideal solution for you.
Both models can handle tall persons (with an extended monorail) and persons weighing up to 500 pounds.
If you have difficulty lowering down to the 14-inch-high seat on the Model D, consider getting the Model E. Its seat is 20 inches off the ground, which is about the average height of a chair.
Click here to purchase Concept2 Model D on Amazon!
Click here to purchase Concept2 Model E on Amazon!