Should You Buy a WaterRower in 2024?

[@marcgras9064]

I got a watterRower a few months ago. I am completely new to this. I have never rowed on any other machine. I agree with your ergonomic description. It is not easy to lean forward completely bent and the legs are a bit too close on your nuts which makes you open them while rowing. Having said that, it is completely bearable and I can row without problem in a very pleasand experience. To me, sound and aesthetics mattered a lot. The experience you have on this rowing machine is perfect for what I wanted. Stay fit and forget for a while my stressful live. To that end, waterrower proved to be very good for me. It would be nice if they imporve those ergonomics though.

[@goober_3575]

the sound of a Concept 2 was a big deterrent for me, as I live with two shift workers. the quietness of a WaterRower is a big plus, so I opted for the A1 (monorail) model. Bought it second hand at lower price than I could find for a Concept 2. The small storage footprint and storage height of the WaterRower are an advantage. Regarding the WaterRower calculating things fast, I don't see that as an issue. Consistent calculations are what's import. Logging my times, I can see if I am improving, which is all that matters to me. I did however, lower the foot plates on my rower right after this video finished. I've learn a lot about rowing from you over the year, Austin. Much appreciated!

[@cesarpadilla2541]

I have a year using my water rower, and l love it, I can’t find all that cons you say.

[@theresaallendemccollom-gig2891]

I've had my water rower for about 10 yrs or so. I have resealed it twice. That being said I bought it for a ridiculous price (like NEW) and I love it. I am only 5'1" and I haven't had any issues with my back or reaching forward. That being said, my footplates are very high since I have small feet, but I will try lowering to see if it makes a difference. I love your videos and your energy. You are an amazing instructor and I appreciate all you teach! God bless! Thank you!

[@dickywrinkler8870]

Did you buy a kit to reseal it? My seal went and I'm not finding many options.

[@sybilgray3289]

What adhesive did you use to reseal? I need to reseal mine but don't want to pay $100 (🙀) for Waterrower's repair kit! I've found all the other materials, but don't know the correct type of adhesive (I'm thinking 2-part polyurethane?) Thanks for any info you might be able to share! (I also love my waterrower!)

[@BobbieGWhiz]

I’ve been using an Amazon knock off water rower that I bought for $450 for over a year. I removed the plastic foot holders and put my heels on the floor and have attached a canvas belt to the lower part of the footboard to hold my feet in place. That way my feet are well blow my seat and it’s much easier to row. This has worked well for me.

[@zsoltpasztor713]

I bought a WaterRower A1 (monorail) 3 years ago, and added a SmartRow 1.5 years ago. It's a perfect combination.

[@pommieMJ]

I've got a waterrower, and I've been using them for five years now. Started off with the A1 with the rail and then "upgraded" to the wooden natural rower with the two rails. Definitely noticed the fact that my feet were closer together which affected the catch slightly. I've also had to repair the water tank but that only lasted about 9 months and so bought a whole new tank. And, you're right about the 2K pace being quicker on the waterrower versus a C2. However, it feels really good to row on, looks awesome and sounds great! Good honest video though, thanks.

[@trainingtall]

Thanks for your comment my friend! I’m glad you’re getting the most out of your rower! 💪

[@courtneyroans8635]

I own the (Snode) water rowing machine (WR100) I love it. I guess to each it's own. No back pain for me. I'm 6'6 260. I have great leg extension as it was something I worried about before I purchased it. What I can agree to is that I am not able to keep my feet flat on the pedals (I don't use my scraps) (also my pedals are spaced apart at a nice distance from each other) I think I just need more practice on my mechanics in that regard. Overall going into my second year of usage of this rowing machine. This baby have survived ( no cracks or leaks) a harsh cold winter here in Chicago as I have forgot to keep it warm during the months because it was stored away and not used during the majority of those months, in my front room that was much colder than the rest of my apartment... Thanks for the tip of making my rower more resistant. I didn't think to add more water to submerge my fan like blades in the water (makes sense) and no that wouldn't be a problem for to make adjustments as needed by adding or taking water out as I desire. I paid close to $600 I think from Amazon. This included installation. For the most part I am very satisfied my purchase. Nice informative video. You have helped me appreciate my machine much more ! 😃👏🏾❤️💪🏾

[@Freakingbad89]

Would have been more productive if you can wash your clothes with it like a manual washing machine lol.

[@Lindi-kz2es]

😂

[@magnolia251]

LMAO 😂

[@cara8331]

We bought it literally today and it was my first thought when I saw how it actually works lol

[@petersolovey9414]

Omg...the best idea for startup😂😂😂

[@pokrec]

It has already been done. C2 connected to a washing machine's drum instead of an electric motor. In Africa, where there is no electricity in a jungle village people recycle scraped washing machines to power it with bikes. Just add warm, Sun-heated water, some soap and pedal for 20 minutes at a comfortable pace. It is much easier than hand washing. Simple, efficient, ingenious.

[@downfromthereeefters]

I bought a Yosuda magnetic rowing machine a month or so ago, it's $250 but I got a $70 coupon! Just checked Amazon and there's still a coupon for $60 off! I really like it so far, and it's very quiet. The highest resistance is also very respectable. It has 16 resistance settings, and at 16, it's very hard to go more than 10 minutes. I recommend if anyone's looking for a good deal.

[@JohnSmith-je8uu]

I have a water rower, totally see yout point of view. I found a guy on etsy that sells oem quality wider footboard and seat risers, but that does add to the cost

[@SooperToober]

Could you please share the Etsy seller?

[@lexc1980]

Another benefit of the waterrower is that it can be stored upright to either save space in small apartments or rooms.

[@stevesmith3606]

The Concept2 does that as well and even comes apart into two very manageable pieces.

[@Ayram9]

I agree, and have both rowing machines now (WR and C2) because certain family members insisted we also have the C2...but I reeeally love the feel and yes zen whooshing sound of the Water Rower compared to Concept 2 which I like but don't love. I've got good form and like them both well enough. So, I compromised: when I bought the water rower I got the kind with A1 model with the single rail (the higher end version known as the Studio which they no longer sell themselves) with the S4 monitor (known as the A1 S4 Studio model a couple of years ago). This made my feet farther apart and ever so slightly lower than seat compared to the dual rail models (though not as low as with the C2). Then I bought the arm extension and iPad holder AND bought SmartRow which is way more accurate and has the force curve so makes the S4 monitor unnecessary (yet still handy to have, like when a friend or family member uses it for fun and their devices aren't already set up with the SmartRow software). The SmartRow upgrade is superior to the C2's monitor plus connects to all the cool apps So NOW I have the smooth belt (no jerky chain), the intense resistance, the zen sound, the better feet stance, more options of fun ways to row on my fairly large ipad or VR headset, and it stands up and gets out of the way quickly all the while looking good enough to keep in our living room which is a bonus (I don't care that much about how it looks, but it doesn't hurt). And once you find the good water level you don't have to fiddle with it anymore. Downsides? All these upgrades made it cost a bit more than the C2, and while it rolls around nicely, it doesn't get taken apart into two pieces and easily transported out of the house for a day like a Concept 2 could. But the experience is definitely better after having rowed plenty on both. Concept 2's are great machines for many reasons and we all know they're the standard for crew team members to practice on and that's important and legit. But I'm not a crew member and got spoiled using the (single rail) Water Rower - what can I say. The workout is great and the sensory experience gives it the edge. I would however NOT recommend their dual-rail standard S4 models (sorry WaterRower).

[@piffpuffpeng]

I have an Ergatta (Waterrower with 'motivational' computer) and I love it. I know the C2 from the studio and I must say that I like the waterrower more, probably because I'm more used to it. The thing with the different times vs. effort is something I have experienced as well. My reasons for buying this things were the noise (apartment) and the type of software the ergatta has. Without such a device I don't think I could motivate myself to keep at it. The noise the 'siren' in the C2 makes is NOT compatible if you don't own a freestanding house. I also don't like the chain.

[@MatthewSiben]

Fantastic review. Thank you. Having used both, totally agree with your comments especially the water rower causing legs to pinch balls. (I thought I was the only one dealing with this problem.)

[@Fuzzball]

I have a WaterRower and this video is SPOT ON. I love rowing and I love the sound but crushed balls and occasional sore backs are the usual. The company seems to have no desire to change and third parties have tried to address the cons but it just makes it more expensive. SmartRow should be included. The wider handle should be standard. A taller seat should be standard.

[@100andran]

I row c2rower in training for crossfit. I like it and I find the monitor is great in combination with a heartrate monitor. At home I row a waterrower with smartrow and heartrate monitor. And what should I say? I love it. The first one is great for feeling strong and making sportssportssports. The second one is great for feeling smart and good and getting fitter (but only with smartrow!). Both work and I think both are great machines. But if I have to decide me, I would take the waterrower with smartrow.

[@hodar5194]

Truly appreciate an honest review. Not a sales pitch, but things to look for, and things to avoid. Thank you

[@davidstephenson3615]

What a fantastically useful review, never thought of any of that, since I have never used a rower except air powered about 40 years ago.

[@Daveaaaaa]

I bought the cheapest A1 water rower with monorail so my feet are not too close together. i do agree with the seat height problem. I physically raised my seat 3.5 inches by adding a wooden platform underneath it. The ergonomics are still not perfect but much better than before. Oh, but I wish they had a curved handle like the Concept 2.

[@Ridcul]

I agree 100%, the leg constraints and back pain. The difference with the concept models is night and day.

[@jen....]

I love my WaterRower, especially for its quietness (air and magnetic rowers drive me absolutely crazy) and the fact it stands on end in the corner of my tiny box room, but I don't disagree about the footplate positioning. The plates work fine for me, but they could definitely be better. I bought mine second hand over 10 years ago so it has been great value for money and I have never had an issue with the tank cracking or anything breaking. You are absolutely right that WaterRower should listen to their customers with regards to the footplates, seat and monitor though. Luckily, I just sit down and row along to one of your videos, so all I need the monitor for is stroke rate and split 🙂

[@FWild-eb1rd]

But Air rower Sounds mostly similar Like Water waves 😅

[@michellejacobsen331]

I'm interested in this rower. How does it work for women? I'm a complete newb to rowing; just want to burn calories really. All the other stuff is bonus

[@danonyogaandfitness4591]

Hey Austin. I have a pad on my home water rower seat that makes it higher and more comfortable. I also got the wider handle. I use Concept 2 sometimes at the gym and prefer the water rower with the mods. And if you shop used, they are pretty cheap.

[@murray2424]

You are bang on point in terms of the foot plate height vs seat. Rigging on (river / flat water) rowing boats actually measures the drop from the front lip of the seat to the bottom of the heal cups. This used to drive me insane on my WaterRower. But I love it for how quiet it is more than anything else. I modified mine by buying a commercial footplate (more simple strap adjustment) and drilling two new holes 2.5 inches lower than how they come out of the box. That has fixed that problem. I still have issues with the seat shape though (yep I’ve used the seat reversed and right way around). As you say, issues the WaterRower design team should have resolved long ago. On the resistance side, I do a lot of river rowing as well (scull, four, quad and eight). I find the feel pretty genuine, especially the weight all the way through to the finish. With C2, if you hit it hard at the catch, the rest of the stroke can be a low resistance follow through. This would not work in the boat. As with the WaterRower, if you punch it too hard at the catch vs the speed of the water, the impeller / blade will just slip through the water. Don’t forces you to build pace in a more relatable fashion to working in the boat. Just my ten cents worth. For me, with some modifications and using EXR for fun at home, I would buy a lower end WaterRower again but I have the luxury of C2 at my rowing club for more serious kms on the grind.

[@JC-pb4db]

What commercial plate did you need to get for the mod?

[@murray2424]

@@JC-pb4db I used the WATERROWER ORIGINAL SERIES COMMERCIAL FOOTBOARD UPGRADE - drilled one extra hole and dropped the foot plate down. I used this footboard as the footplate / straps etc are connected by two nut / bolt sets instead of being recessed into the footboard like the horribly designed springy foot height adjustment that comes as standard. I just used the bottom hole for the standard set up as my top hole and drilled another hole below to match the spacing required for the lower bolt….pretty simple mod, but as mentioned in this video, WaterRower really should have worked out the issues with their geometry by now and fixed it up. I also use a Citius Remex seat pad to overcome the terrible seat design (and it gives my bum a little more height) and I use the wider handle to give a more natural feel. The appearance of the natural WaterRowers is very nice, the functional design, fit and feel leave a lot to be desired sadly. I also just added the SmartRow set up and a tablet holder. The standard S4 monitor is terrible and I’ve persevered with the flakey Bluetooth connector for too long. Both of these new additions, while expensive have been welcome additions. So many things that I would change to the standard set up if I was on the WaterRower team that would make the units more functional, comfortable and enhance user experience.

[@bigfromagemovies]

The A1 model sits just like a C2. Plus as you pointed out it's way better looking and sounds sooooo much nicer.

[@patrickwalsh2361]

Thanks for this comment because this solves the shortcomings of the Waterrower for me! I’m getting the A1. Plus, I’ve got room to put a big screen with scenic rowing videos.

[@aprilluttrellaprnfnp-c7643]

shopping for a rower and this was very helpful!

[@13peregrine]

Thank you. Very informative. A much appreciated honest appraisal of available machines.

[@markvonwisco7369]

I've had a Concept2 Rowerg since October 2020. I don't think it's that loud.

[@Cubiche12]

Yeah, I have to agree with you on the footplate positioning and spacing. But, I do like using Ergatta the service with it and I don't think I could switch at this point for that reason. Also, I keep it in a finished basement and it is more aesthetically pleasing to look at than the others. I rowed over a million meters last year with most workouts being in the 30-40 minute range. If I go over an hour on the rower I experience a little bit of back pain afterwards

[@bhuff1]

I purchased the city row go several years ago specifically because of a previous video commenting on the bad foot position of the dual rail version. I also wanted built in follow along workouts. I have since canceled the city row subscription in favor of your app because their videos never went beyond the basics. I think the monorail version solves most of the problems you have with the rower and it’s still the most compact to store in my home office when upright.

[@nedreiter3869]

Thanks, that's a big help. Currently looking at buying a rowing machine (to help with my on-water "real" rowing) and this has persuaded me to knock water rowers off the list. They may look pretty, but I wouldn't if I was lurching around with a crook back!

[@trainingtall]

Concept 2 is the rowing athlete’s rower!

[@richardmather1906]

@@trainingtall I would say Concept 2 is the rower for anybody who works out, rowing athlete or not. It is particularly useful for circuit training, IMO. Do 500 or 750 meters. Jump off and do a circuit of barbell or dumbell exercises, jump back on for another 500 or 750 more, jump off and do some lunges or step ups. Repeat for a few circuits. Its tremendous. It also works good for keeping the legs from stiffening up between sets of heavier low body exercises. Also like it for warming up before lifting. And finishing up the workout after lifting. Most workouts I do begin and end on the Concept 2.

[@fredarendt7319]

State of the art ist the Augletics Eight from Germany, whispering with a rowing feeling and an aesthetic beauty.

[@suprguy]

state of the art is definitely the c2

[@fredarendt7319]

⁠@@suprguyI have a C2 too. Market leader and a relible, affordable machine, ok. But what is your experience with Augletics? Mine with C2 is 10 years, with Augletics 2 1/2.

[@gracevandenbergen]

I've not heard of that brand till now, it's a very cool piece of design. It doesn't look available in my country, which is probably a good thing... looks expensive. 🤣

[@fredarendt7319]

@@gracevandenbergen It‘s a German product, produced around Berlin. I love it after ten years with my C2. I‘d never go back to C2, which did its job very well.

[@fredarendt7319]

@@suprguy I used it, loved it, but a new era has begun. I also drive a Tesla S now, after decades with different technologies.

[@vanhamies8512]

I guess you could raise the seat by screwing wood blocks between the padded part and seat base...

[@joelsmith7263]

I got the Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian SF-RW5713 Water Rower back in 2020, and it doesn't suffer from the foot placement and ball smashing like other water rowers. The foot placement is probably about 15" apart from center, and slower than the seat.

[@SwindonRunner]

I do love that orange colour though.

[@ldckr01]

best thing about the water rower is you can upgrade it with the ergarta kit!

[@desofan]

Great overview, I ocasionally used the water rower in some gyms ( I own a concept 2 at home) and couldnt get over the close feet issue, it makes it very uncomfortable for me and very difficult to keep adequate technique. Thank you for your video

[@amyholms5379]

I can only compare between my WaterRower and the sculls I row out on the water. I can see what you are saying regarding the drop, but the boats don’t have wide foot plates either. WaterRower feels actually like rowing in a boat in terms of the resistance. Can’t disagree with you more. You increase the resistance by rowing harder, not by artifically increasing your resistance at the catch.

[@notafan1275]

Thanks for this review. Have you yet come across Decathlon's Woodrower? I've just seen it in a store and it has impressed me by it's silence (much quieter than a water rower). Sadly I didn't yet know to watch out for seat height, it might be too low. But I believe the feet are reasonably far apart, because the resistance adjustment knob is between them. I would love to hear your opinion on that model!

[@MarcyFitness]

ASMR relaxing sound for water rower >>>

[@bigbuckeyes]

I've been using the LIT method rower, and found it doesn't have all of the same issues. You can manually adjust the resistance on a 4 point scale without needing to physically add or empty water. Foot plates are also very wide apart and I haven't noticed any issues with not being able to get a full compression, overall its very comfortable and I haven't had any back pain from it. in addition it includes a variety of other attachments which make it more of a total body workout machine that is built around being a rower, rather than just a rower. the only downside is the one you listed about comparing splits with concept 2 folks, which is fine with me. I'm more concerned about tracking my own numbers to themselves, and the tracking *should* be able to be measured against itself.

[@groengm2012]

Wow burst my bubble on my 4 year old water rower. Your training has got me under 9 minute 2000, and you say not so fast as you think stinker. I now can do over 10500 metres within the hour ,so now maybe not. At 5.5 and now 70 years old I'm still feeling good about the rower. Your right when I had my belly 4 years ago it seemed harder to enter the catch and had to openup my knees a bit. The prices of these have now doubled in 4 years so that my choice my have played a roll. I could have bought the C2 at the time same price. My decision was based on the height of the flywheel, so as not to change my TV height, plus the sound. Knowing that I will never be competitive only with myself. So far no troubles with it. Your several hours of instruction still have me rowing on a regular bases and feel pretty darn good even my now false times. Still a big thanks for all your training that you gave me.

[@hellboystein2926]

In my boat I can rigger the shoes higher or lower basically as I wish, I can even change the angle of the foot-Plate. Nevertheless, I'm not the guy with the longest shins nor do I have bad hip or ankle mobility, I actually like the foot-placing quite high for good compression(depends mainly on anatomy, and to a lesser degree on mobility and technique/experience). Still I like the concept2 model the most because its the international norm for comparison in competitive rowing, and the machines I quite rugged, but still affordable.

[@hellboystein2926]

Side-note to your demonstration: We bought a Empacher 4- last year, but even if I mount the footplate AS LOW as possible I don't think its deeper than in your demonstration, neighter are your Knees 'over your neck'. If you have a problem keeping your spine in good postion in THAT kind of riggering you definitely should work on your mobility/technique too!

[@robbeason]

Was a very competitive college rower who crashed out of shape after graduate school and early career. Bought a Concept2 at 42. Have accrued millions of meters. Think it's great and horrible (in the best way) - if you erg, you know what I mean. Water rowers never felt right when I tried them out. They look very cool, but they don't set your body up to simulate rowing in a shell, and, as noted, you can't compare notes with other competitive rowers on Concept2s.

[@MrJlcurl]

I've rowed a few ergs, I've not rowed the water rower, I've owned a couple C2s and have spent many hours on them. I spend a lot of time on water rowing and I can't stand an erg that doesn't have the resistance I expect in the boat.

[@Halster1]

As a big boy that’s been trying to get into rowing to lose weight you described every issues Iv encountered lol my nuts hurt and make it not worth it for me lol

[@monkeyb1820]

The seat cushion here looks way higher than the heel part of the footplate--so it's interesting that it doesn't easily let you lean forward. Whereas the seat cushion of C2 actually does not look as high relative to the heal portion. But agree that if my feet are lowered a bit on the c2, I can lean forward nicely. But it all seems to be an issue with the seat height relative to heel height (or maybe 'strap height').

[@Skinz_inthegame]

I love my concept 2 rower.

[@davidhunternyc1]

It seems to me the Concept 2 is the gold standard. They've made plenty of money. Why don't they invest in making a quiet rower? It's not rocket science.

[@jen....]

Yeah, if they made a quiet model I'd get one in a heartbeat.

[@davidhunternyc1]

@@jen.... Yep, I don't get it though. They've made plenty of money. Why don't they invest in making a quiet rower? It's not rocket science.

[@Pooh0Bear8]

Agree 💯

[@djamilawilschke7259]

@@davidhunternyc1it kind of is if you actually would understand the mechanics behind it, but hey go ahead and invent it yourself

[@markgardiner1742]

It's funny as in all the years iv been going to the gym iv only ever used a concept 2 and I'm talking 25 years and really enjoyed them however when I decided to get one for myself I went and tried a few out. I agree with the patent named water rower. It's limited in that you can't adjust the resistance plus a few other issues but I did try a first degree apollo xl water rower and I absolutely loved it. I just found it so smooth and it just felt brilliant to use . It also has a patent lever that let's more or less water into the chamber. The downside is they are more expensive new but second hand there far cheaper than the concept 2. Anyway for the average person who would only use one for some fitness I think theyvare brilliant and the sound actually makes me want to use it unlike the concept 2 which I think if I had at home I'd be using it to hang stuff on . Basically if your serious about rowing and want to compare your times etc with others then the concept 2 is hands down the machine. But for the casual user I honestly think I made the right choice for home use. It stands up and doesn't take much room out of my garage gym. I'd recommend the first degree rowers over the water rower any day tho.

[@WarpandXeno88]

I'm a big fan of my Concept 2, but I would like to try a water rower just to see and feel the difference.

[@BlueStratDude]

I bought a C2 years ago and I'd buy it again 100/100 times, even if I had all the money in the world. It's such a well beaten path. My daily routine is always the same - fire up the app (which is free, has no ads, and only needs permission to connect to the rowing computer), start the Workout of the Day, follow the workout, then go see how I ranked against others. I don't know why anyone complains about the noise, I don't turn up whatever I'm listening to while I'm rowing because I don't need to. I think the noise "complaints" are marketing. I realize real people do occasionally complain but I don't think it would occur to them if they didn't see others complaining.

[@TomSifu]

I also have the C2 and am very satisfied. Which app do you use?

[@petersolovey9414]

Thanks. What app do you use?

[@gracevandenbergen]

Noise issues aren't just marketing or in anyone's head. For those who live in small quarters, apartments, and/or have to share those kinds of spaces- every extra decibel in an enclosed area is a huge deal. Same goes for floor footprint and aesthetics. If you are lucky enough that these lifestyle issues aren't a factor, great! But for those that can't escape that situation the C2 just doesn't cut it, no matter how boff or cult-like the machine happens to be. I have a WR for that very reason. If a magnetic one existed that took up as little space, and looked half as decent I probably would have bought that instead and been even happier with even less noise and more adjustability. But it doesn't exist currently as far as I can see. Glad you are happy with your C2.

[@TomSifu]

@@gracevandenbergen I had these concerns as well, since I live in a multi-unit building surrounded by neighbors. Nevertheless, I chose the C2. Since the C2 only moves air and doesn’t transfer noise through the floor, my neighbors don’t hear anything. I wear in-ear headphones and listen to music or a podcast while training, so I don’t notice the noise myself. I can’t judge the advantages of air resistance compared to machines with magnetic resistance, but the overall concept of the C2-including features like WODs, online connectivity, compatibility, and its widespread use-really convinced me.

[@ivanknudsen]

What about the Waterrower A1, is it better? Pros and cons, can You give some tips ? 😊

[@ElizabethEllisCoach]

Speaking of poor ergonomics….please address how to use the water rower after you have gotten carpal tunnel in your wrist thumb. I really like rowing, but I can not seem to find a way to avoid carpal tunnel with the odd wrist movement/ position

[@zachkieri1185]

Ok, why am I maintaining a neutral spine as I reach? Approximately 80% of the spines ROM is in flexion, in other words, when you reach forward, and this is a highly important strength to train in competitive rowing so why would it be a problem in erg rowing? I honestly stopped listening after this

[@trainingtall]

Lumbar spine issues are the # 1 injury in rowing. Your thorasic spine is supposed to have lots of ROM, yes. But your lumbar spine is not and rounding it diminishes the power of your hip swing. Strength exercises should be used to help improve stability and isometric contraction in the lumbar spine

[@zachkieri1185]

@ in the video you said “neutral spine position” that implies a “flat back” or maintaining the same curve through thoracic, lumbar and even cervical spine through the movement . My experience with the water rower is that you generally get little lumbar spinal movement due to the close foot placement as your torso stacks up against your legs allowing a comfortable reach with the thoracic spine allowing you to limit flexion with the lumbar spine while reaching with the thoracic spine which I was taught is optimal technique, but I suppose that could be wrong. Understandably repeated lumbar spinal flexion under low “inconsistent” resistance (no erg has the consistent resistance of weights) is bad especially for untrained or less-trained individuals but that was never an issue I or any of my clients had with the water rower (sold them for half a decade and owned 3 different models and was also a trainer) once again due to the foot placement: not reaching between your legs

[@gary4739]

I bought the WR about 4 years ago because of the sound level. I agree with the foot placement and lower back strain. IMHO the electronics are very poor especially for an expensive machine. I bought the SmartRow powermeter and now I feel the data is more true than the stock unit. Overall the WR has severed me well. Would I buy it again? Probably but I would want to spend time on the C2 or a monorail.

[@richardmather1906]

Thank you! Every time I get on a water rower I notice the foot rest placement issue. I sometimes wonder if it is just that I am so used to the position on the C2. But the water rower does not "just feel different." It feels "not quite right." Instead of rowing "from 11:00 to 1:00 clock" (torso lean forward and back) it feels more from "12:00 to 1:00."

[@veronicacurtis5951]

really wish that I had seen this video before I purchased the rower that I got I was not trying to spend a tremendous amount of money so my budget was around 300 and I’m new to rowing, but having it on the highest resistance being a water rower, I realize that I would never be able to advance with the machine that I bought I do 90 minute workouts on there, and I barely break a sweat and don’t feel sore at all from it so I don’t really feel like it’s working my body out the way that it should. My advice to anyone is do your research and if you’re going to buy exercise equipment, save up and get the right type of equipment! hopefully by next year, I will have my rowing technique down 100% and stick with it and buy a much better model

[@marianobernas]

If you are using a water based rower and you are not sweating after 90 mins, or you are in an incredible unhuman shape or your techinque dont let you engage the exersice properly. You should focus on your form first then when you notice that the watter resist you evenly though all the stroke you can start adding speed and power. TrainginTall has some nice routines that focus first on techinque. You should check it out

[@strategicsage7694]

It's worth noting that most of the difficulty with any rower is not going to be the resistance setting, but what you put into it with your legs.

[@Brockthedog315]

I have the most inexpensive A1 monorail water rower. Only one to buy imo. Love it. Maybe I will try raising the seat height. I don’t care about competing but get what you are saying. You make good points. For me A1 water rower is the best choice.

[@4to]

The thing with the nuts is my biggest issue ... even on the concept2 😅

[@andycanasius]

Makes sense. Thank you for sharing. Aesthetics is not everything.

[@vjeshitza]

ca t you just add a cushion to make the seat higher

[@R.a.p.h.a.e.l.a]

I bought a Concept 2 on the basis of your videos and I've never regretted it. My problem is that for the last several years I haven't been able to use it much because I have chronic epicondylitis in one elbow and holding the handle aggravates it. I primarily run and I mostly wanted the rower for low-intensity cross-training (I suck at easy runs), but the elbow issue is a problem if I try for more than two short rowing sessions a week. Is there a way to row without triggering a tennis elbow flare?

[@ivannic]

What if you're not overweight so the close feet are not an issue (feet are similar distance apart as in the real boat?), you are not 6'8" but 6'2", and you get a custom higher seat, and a SmartRow. Ignore that the price will be more than double of a C2. Are there any downsides you can point out about WaterRower then? I love C2 and can't decide between the two, but the looks, the aesthetics and the sound of a WaterRower in my living room makes me want to justify picking it over a C2. I am 29 and am not a professional rower, never planning to be, but have rowed in the past and would like to turn it into a lifelong hobby. Opinions?

[@markricketts6957]

My priorities were to have a reliable machine, no monthly subscription, good ergonomics, and a consistent measure against other athletes. C2 ticks all those boxes.

[@bcc1955]

Is complaint about seat height to foot pad not being steep enough valid for the monorail WaterRower A1? This unit also has more widely spread feet? Also this unit has ability to add SmartRower power meter which corrects the difference in power readouts you speak about. And programs such as EXR use a simple correction factor to correct for differences bias in machine readouts. More important IMO is the lag in data acquisition which I understand SmartRower performs well.

[@rickfitzgerald4426]

Another Con is Water Rower's horrible customer service. Makes it feel like you are dealing with a incompetent back yard operation. What about some sort of seat riser to get your back higher? Thanks for your video's

[@frankrizzo7454]

The Concept 2 Model A with the old school car odometer felt very close to real rowing. Was a real bicycle wheel with a small cassette and plastic blades you would stick in the spokes like baseball cards. 10/10. Used them on our crew team in the 80's.

[@BFG-rr9cv]

Why not just increase the seat height with a custom spacer inbetween? Would solve at least one issue.

[@weevilinabox]

Or move the footplates down the board. It's only a matter of drilling a few holes.

[@jonathangoldsmith7832]

So then, what’s the best gamified option?

[@squealer42]

Want to look slimmer? Get a department store mirror. Drop a few pounds? How about a nice scale that under-reports. Drastically improve your 2K split? Get a Water Rower!

[@wadsworth2351]

I am on the fence about buying a Heat performance rower by Life Fitness, as cheesy as it may sound. Would that be that bad a choice?

[@n8club]

What about hybrid rowers?

[@Waywardification]

How much water should be in water tank ? 1 is lowest and 6 is highest. We have rower machine at home with water but I didn't buy it. Brother did and before I didn't even know there were machines with water tanks. Personally I wouldn't buy it but since it is what it is...started using it recently and I don't hate it but I don't love it. I know I got to improve on rowing and that it'll take time...but meters just ain't flying like I see them flying on concept 2 rowing machines that people post online. Someone pulls not even past knees and it already says they did 4 meters...I do at most rarely 7 meter pull and usually it's 5-6 meters. And it only moves when I take another stroke...while videos I watch meters keep going by even as they come back to take a stroke. So they end with time let's say 6 minutes or lower...and I know those are elite times...but I take 17min58 seconds for 2000 meter session. Again I know I'm not elite and that I'll improve overtime but is water tank too full at 6 ? On concept 2 there are 10 settings and people have it between 4-6...I need info where the water needs to be so that I can adjust it.

[@ajwalker4416]

This video was spot on. I had no issue rowing on a regular rowing machine, similar to a Concept 2 at my gym. When I decided to switch to home workouts and purchased a water rowing machine, it was painful. The ergonomics were off as you point out. It caused tremendous hip pain and was impossible to keep good form as I did at the rowing machine at the gym. And yes, I'm not as lean as you so there were all kinds of issues with using a water rower with the way they are designed, and being a guy, the footplates weren't far enough apart. I was able to sell it for a decent price and am now saving for a Concept2 rower.

[@garzascreek]

I agree that the design is faulty. Kept me from getting an Ergatta in the end. There _is_ a wood worker out there who makes a higher seat frame and wider foot pads. Pricey but looks like high quality. hawoodworks

[@waveridr1]

I love my water rower but.. 3:03 My first choice was a C2 but the pandemic made them unavailable

[@chrisrog]

You look very tall, that could be your issue. I'm not much more comfortable on a concept 2. It is definitely much faster than a C2 and that indeed is annoying.

[@janet6962]

Have you ever done a rowing marathon?

[@jbone3203]

Can you please review the rogue echo rower?

[@felipequintas7280]

great video! sorry for mi english in respect to the narrow feet position, do you think the WR a1 (with the monorail) has acceptable feet width? or although wider than the models with duorail, is it still narrower than the concept2 feet position? thank you for your quality work!

[@AA-oo3ug]

Hi! I also looked at the A1. The foot width is the same as the Concept 2. And the seat height can be fixed by adding a seat pad. However, the A1 (in my country) comes with a low end monitor which does not support Bluetooth. Note that there is an additional upgrade called SmartRower you can purchase that uses your phone or tablet as a monitor. But this costs additional $300. For me this was the deal breaker. I purchased the concept 2 instead of the A1. In Canada: Concept 2 $1359 + 102 shipping + 189 tax WaterRower A1 $1399 + 375 smartrower add-on + 230 tax + ??? Shipping.

[@danshtr]

@@AA-oo3ug I don't know why, but you can purchase A1 with PM4 by reaching out to their sales. Its not on their site.

[@felipequintas7280]

@@AA-oo3ug guou same width perfect!! thank you for your answer! appreciate!

[@anditils]

Hey @trainingtall, isn't there a monorail version of the waterrower that should pretty much fix the problems with the foot positioning? Both in height and in spacing in between? Do you have any experience on those? Thanks for you videos, Adrian

[@trainingtall]

Hey Adrian! Yes, I actually mention it in the video! Did you see that part?

[@anditils]

@@trainingtall embarrassingly I must have missed that :D. Thx Austin, for pointing that out again.

[@fyvewytches]

Strange that you get back pain. I have chronic lower back pain which is eased by using my Waterrower. However… I have never thought of this machine as a competitive, professional training device. As you mention, the aesthetics are great and it easily lives in the corner of the room taking up no space at all. It’s just for a bit of fitness and fun rather than winning gold medals.

[@johnmathewson985]

Could we raise the seat for better seat to foot alignment? I would have bought a Concept 2 but it is just too long to fit into my available space.

[@weevilinabox]

Do you mean too long in use, or storage? If it's the latter, the C2 splits into two parts very easily.

[@tdudley7876]

Wow! Awesome video. I have seen these water rowers in the gym and have been frustrated by just not having the same feel that I get when I am in an actual crew shell... I have always suspected the seat height is off - and foot placement and all the other things that make me hate these water rowers! I used a concept to in college and I have had one in my living room for years now and I love it. Now I actually know why LOL! Thanks!

[@pavanchukka2981]

Hi iam from India. Suggest best rowing machine in India

[@KatieANDgee]

I jist got my wayer rower delivered 😅 i actually love it. It does have only one rail tho...so at least that 😂

[@courtneyroans8635]

Mine too ! 😂 I forgot to mention that.

[@astanfartin1647]

mr balling's younger brother

[@jimr5855]

There is only one rower to buy.

[@OutlawJJ80]

Don't buy a Rower that uses a Water Tank OR the name brand WaterRower ????

[@bober1019]

so like, people in real life rowing in real competition boats are doing it wrong?

[@strategicsage7694]

No, that's not what he said.

[@bober1019]

@strategicsage7694 but they cannot place their feet lower than the bottom of the boat, which is pretty much the same feet placement as on the water rower

[@eDrumsInANutshell]

@@bober1019 In real life competition boats you don't have fluffy guys. That will end up like the Titanic.

[@thewholeworldisbeautiful]

Damn you're so dramatic😂

[@charlesrestivo870]

Surprized orangetheory dosent can him for blowing up their equipment

[@trainingtall]

“Blowing up their equipment”?

[@trainingtall]

Why would I get fired for just having an honest conversation about a rowing machine?

[@astanfartin1647]

it a cool gimmick...

[@user-sv3nf2qc4z]

Really. After all these years and a 1/2 dozen videos promiting water rowering machines, you are now saying their not worth it? What happened? You lost your sponsorship. The pedals can be adjusted by screwing them up higher. Personally, if you're 6' 8" you should have a customized rower.

[@trainingtall]

What sponsorship? 😂 I have literally talked about in multiple videos why C2 is better than WaterRower. If you’re referring to Ergatta, that’s SOFTWARE that just so happens to be on a WaterRower, which I actually say is a BUMMER because the software is so good it would be way better on anything but a WaterRower.

[@aerocoolable]

@@trainingtall Oh Austin and you wonder why you got fired from Orange Theory. Good talk!

[@healer2008]

Are you talking about WaterRowers ? Sounded more like how genious you are.

[@conrow1157]

Professional rower here, you are so wrong. It’s not good to lean forward like you want to. WaterRower are way more realistic compared to real rowing like the concept 2 etc. don’t push to much. Just relax and njoy your WaterRower people 🙏

[@trainingtall]

Which national team are you on?

[@scottschoppert9149]

What profession team are you rowing for!

[@JK-nj3bt]

Gay

[@faustorossi5524]

You're totally wrong

[@trainingtall]

Okay! Thanks for all the supporting evidence you provided for everyone to support your claim!

[@faustorossi5524]

@@trainingtall The only evidence I have is that I have one, and it works very well about the rowing positions and everything.

[@scottschoppert9149]

@@faustorossi5524you are just mad 😡 you bought the wrong one

[@faustorossi5524]

@@scottschoppert9149 I didn't, mine works perfectly. I am very satisfied.

[@tobiasbrandl8917]

thank you. i was thinking about getting one. now probably not