Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I own the Concept 2 Model D. I purchased it last year after an exhausting field and internet search. I "casually" used it for several months until a few months ago when I became very serious about losing weight. I now use the rower 5 to 6 times a week 30 minutes minimum- with an average of 45 minutes and occasionally (usually Saturday mornings) a 60 minute workout. I do not overdue the individual workouts, and maintain about a 23 stroke per minute rhythm.
I chose this rower for several reasons. First, the great reviews on internet websites. Secondly, I was very impressed with the sales associate. He did not try to "oversell" me, instead he convinced me that for my needs the model D was more than sufficient. Third, I was fortunate enough to try one out at a friends home gym- I was impressed. Lastly- this is a high quality machine- very sturdy and well designed.
I utilize this machine, along with a low carb diet and walking 3-4 miles 2 to 3 times a week, to lose 75 pounds! I started this last September 2008- weighing in at nearly 300 pounds at 6'1". As of now, end of March 2009, I am down to 225 and feel great! That's it, no magic other than consistency! If it were not for this rower, my efforts would have been much, much less successful. (I tried walking alone on previous attempts and walking by itself as the main exercise did not cut it for me for drastic weight loss.)
This rower offers a full body workout! I ordered the machine and it arrived inside of a week. The rower literally snaps together. I did call customer service with a couple questions, and they were very helpful and walked me through the set-up. It is sturdy for big guys like me. The only maintenance I have done is an occasional wiping of light oil on the pull chain- that's it. The machine is not so noisy that I can't watch TV while working out. I strongly recommend this rower!TWO YEAR UPDATE (2/12/11)- I still use the rower and it is still in PERFECT condition! The seat is a bit softer but no wear or tear. 4 friends have purchased this rower after trying out mine. About a year ago I reached 215 pounds using the same program described above. Then, totally unrelated to the rower, I pinched a nerve in my right shoulder from an old dislocation I had as a kid. I had to stop rowing because of the discomfort. Within 6 months I gained 10 pounds and was up to 225 again. My shoulder had healed so I tried this rower again, only this time instead of extended cardio several times a week, I incorporated the rower with Dr. Al Sears high intensity interval training, three times a week for about 12-15 minutes. All I can say is "wow", within 6 weeks I blasted 25 pounds off with no discomfort. The rower was perfect for his method! I also experimented with a powerlung, and used it for once a week, 10 minutes at low intensity. My lung power greatly improved. Although I have not religiously used the powerlung once a week, I try to use it whenever I am in the mood- about once every two weeks. The result has been great.
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Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing MachineWhether you already row or are considering rowing as a way to keep in shape, cross train for another sport, or compete on the water, the Concept2 Model D indoor rowing machine is a terrific choice. Rowing offers several benefits over other exercises: it exercises your entire body, including the arms, legs, chest, back, and abs; its low-impact rhythm is easy on the knees and ankles; it burns a ton of calories because it uses so many muscle groups; and it relieves stress. The Model D adds to these benefits by offering such features as a quiet flywheel that’s designed to minimize noise while providing the smooth feel of rowing on the water, along with a spiral damper that lets rowers choose the feel of a sleek, fast boat or a slow, heavy boat.
The Model D offers a different rowing experience than the rowing you did as a kid. The difference lies in the sliding seat, which compresses and extends your legs with every stroke, in addition to the more obvious work being done by the back and arms. This promotes both strength and flexibility throughout the wide range of leg and arm motion, while challenging the back in the middle of the stroke and the abs at the end. In addition, customers say that the rhythmic nature of rowing helps clear the head and ease the stress of the day.
The Model D comes with a PM3 performance monitor that accurately tracks your distance, speed, pace, calories, and watts, with five display options for rowers--all data, force curve, rowing with a pace boat, bar chart, and large print. The monitor also provides easy menu-driven operation, letting you access a powerful list of features, including preset and favorite workouts, trials against a previous performance or pace boat, FISH games, animated rowers that teach techniques, and multiple language options. If motivation is what you need, you'll find it in Concept2’s online challenges, Million Meter Club, and online ranking.
The Model D is also notably comfortable, with an ergonomic handle that allows for a natural arm and hand position; an aluminum rail capped with a stainless-steel track for smooth seat movements; and adjustable Flex-foot footrests. Other details include a removable LogCard that stores your workout data and personal preferences; built-in heart rate monitoring with an optional Polar receiver (sold separately); a USB interface for easy data transfer to a PC or Mac; caster wheels for quick mobility; and a collapsible design for efficient transport and storage.
The Model D requires a footprint of 9 by 4 feet for use and offers a weight capacity of 500 pounds. It also carries a five-year warranty on frame parts and a two-year warranty on moving parts and the monitor.
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