V-Fit AR1 Artemis / Innsbruck Air Rower

Advantages: Durable, versatile, heavyweight, fully programmable
Disadvantages: Very heavy, need to be plugged in for computer to work.

...I have found this to be an excellent rowing machine, especially after using the concept rowers at gyms. It compares very well against them. The computer gives you the ability to really up the tension as you progress. It also offers you bespoke programmes similar to that in treadmills and cycling machines for overall cariovascular workouts. You can even direct the air back on you to provide some much needed air whilst you are woking out. It needs to be plugged in for computuer to work, but its a great all round machine. The seat runs very smoothly and the pulling mechanism is seat-belt like material, so very durable. It is extreemly heavy and so not easy to move, but the seat running bar can be unlocked and lifted upright to make storage easier.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Very easy to use, move around and store.
Disadvantages: I'm sure there are better steppers but for a higher price.

...Before I start describing the wonders and blunders of the v fit mini stepper I'd like to explain why I opted for this style of home gym equipment. I read a bit on the internet about steppers and how people lose 2-3 inches just using the stepper every day, although this would be a nice bonus I wasn't focusing on losing weight so much as getting fitter and healthier. I live in a large block of flats in London, on the 7th floor with other people living below, above, each side and across the hall. Purely because of this I gave up on my collection of fitness DVDs as I didn't want to be banging about jumping and running every day to the tune of "Lift 2,3,4 and Down 2,3,4, Slide 2,3,4 and Back 2,3,4, and Starjumps...". So basically I believed the quietest exercise equipment I could buy would be a mini stepper. So off to Argos to get... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Ease of use and worlds best
Disadvantages: Huge! Very costly.

...I am what you would describe as a fitness freak and have used many pieces of gym equipment. The Concept 2 Rower is bar far the most superior rower I have used. I use the Model E which is a newer version of the rower and immediately recongised by the frame being higher off the ground allowing a raised seating position which in my opinion is a far more natural and comfortable position. This rower is fitted with a performance Monitor known as PM4, simply the key pad you enter the distance/time and so forth. Being wireless enabled allows you to actually race another rower using a concept 2, as well as wireless heart rate monitoring. The rower even has a game function which allows you to actually add some enjoyment into your workout, it consists of a simple fish game where you must avoid the larger fish and eat the smaller ones... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful