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(More customer reviews)Background: I have severe arthritis in my knee and can no longer perform exercises that impact the joint (even lengthy walks) without experiencing considerable pain. After using Lifecore Fitness' excellent 900 RB recumbent bike for the past 8 months, for a low impact good cardio workout, I recently purchased the company's R88 rower to exercise upper body muscles and provide an alternative to the bike. The rower was easy to assemble and took approximately 1/2 hour. The instructions are clearly written and well illustrated.
Using the Rower: This machine is very easy to use. The first two days I limited my moderately paced workouts to 20 minutes on resistance setting #2. (Note: Most product descriptions -- including Amazon's -- state that the R88 has 8 resistance settings but this model only has 6 resistance settings, which is clearly specified on the shipping box and manual.) After two days I felt a pleasant soreness throughout my body (legs, abdomen, arms, chest, shoulders, back, and butt), which told me that this machine really delivers. Using this machine provides a more intense cardio workout than the recumbent bike.
Pros: The R88 rower is simple, solid, compact,very well constructed, easy to operate, and smooth. I'd compare the build quality and operation to that of driving a base model Mercedes Benz with a manual transmission. The rower's resistance settings (changed easily by turning a dial) will accomodate almost everybody's fitness level. The seat bottom is firmer than that of the RB 900 bike, which is too soft. The unit folds up and can be rolled into a relatively small storage space.
Cons: These are minor but worth mentioning. First, the monitor is not as well illuminated as shown by the company's advertising pictures. To clearly see all display info, a light (overhead or behind your shoulder) is recommended during workouts. Second, when folded for storage, the machine's wheels do not roll very easily on carpet. Third, while the flywheel fan provides a welcome breeze and cooling effect, the fan is pretty noisy especially under hard rowing.
Conclusion: Investing $699 for this quality rowing machine was a no brainer. The R88 is fun to use and provides an outstanding, impact free, total body workout. My arthritic knee is painfree afterwards. The extra features offered by the R99 rower($200 more)seem like a waste of money. NOTE: I will update my review of Lifecore Fitness' R88 Rowing Machine in a few months. G Miller -- Phx. AZ
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Nicely affordable, the Lifecore R88 rowing machine provides a great club-quality, whole-body workout in your own home. The R88 features a combination of air and magnetic resistance with 8 levels controlled by the computer monitor, blue back-lit console, and folding frame for storage. Whether you already row or are considering rowing to keep in shape, lose weight, cross-train for another sport, compete on the water or rehabilitate from injury or surgery, rowing is the complete exercise for you. Your whole body gets a complete workout from the efficient, rhythmic motion of rowing--arms, legs, chest, back, abs.
Features and Specifications:
Large LCD computer display
8 levels of magnetic resistance
Race programs
Recovery program works with optional heart rate chest strap
Pacer and watts dependent programs
Adjustable cooling air vent
Solid steel fan/flywheel
Extruded aluminum frame with solid steel support
Silent drive system
Large ergonomically designed seat for added comfort
Ergonomically designed handle
Folded space requirements: 16 x 24 inches
Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
Manufacturer's Warranty Lifetime on frame; 2 years on parts
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