First Degree Fitness PACIFIC Challenge AR Adjustable Resistance Fluid Rower

On second day, my teenager attempted to use this in the style of canoeing where you pull bar down to sides like a paddle. Doesn't work on this machine. Belt jumps pulley and drops off spool in a tangled bird's nest. I had a lot of difficulty restringing and tying off the bungee using the manual, but I did get prompt help - they sent me a link to video that made it easy. Now appears to be working fine. UPDATE: I love the workout I get from this. Really helps mitigate stress knots in neck and upper back - which is what I was hoping for when I bought it. My only complaint at this time is that my butt goes really numb on seat.

I received this rower as a gift. I've never used a rower before, so I can't compare to other brands or resistance types. I requested this rower after much research because this rower is smaller and I assume quieter than the popular Concept II. I'm really enjoying the machine. I was leery when some reviewers reported that water resistance machines did not provide a workout, but that has not been my experience. I'm a 34 yo male, and I've been running 30 miles per week for years, so I'm in decent shape, but this is has been providing a very tough workout.The bottom half of the tank had a crack in it from assembly. I contacted the company via email, and promptly received a response from their customer service. After a few trouble shooting tips, they sent a replacement water tank. Assembly wasn't too bad, and the new tank does not leak.I think this is a great machine and the dealing with First Degree Fitness was hassle-free experience.

I've used a couple of standard rowers at the gym but this is the first rower I've purchased, so I'm def not an expert on these machines.I can say though that working out with it feels effortless until you get off a half hour later and feel like you got a great total body workout. When not in use it stands up much more sturdy than I expected it would and takes up very little space.I can't speak on the durability yet but it feels very well built. I will update this review in the future if it breaks down in anyway(paid 630).Update 11/24/13: Still functioning properly. For shorter workouts I wish there was a way to increase resistance besides rowing faster. I know with this water system that may not be possible. Maybe they could add a resistance increaser to the pulley system.Update 1/4/20: Have been using it a couple of times a week. Still functioning properly. No major wear or any leaks yet and haven't changed out any parts either.

This is a nice looking machine. Easy to put together. If you are looking for a machine with strong resistance, this is not the machine for you. Resistance is nice though and it will have you sweating and feeling a work out. I love the machine.

Almost like being on the water, without the smell, bugs, and drunken boaters. All in all a pleasant way to get your exercise in. Makes a great footstool as well. Looks good in the house. Now if they would just fix it so you could put fish in the tank.............

I've been using the rowers at the gym for years, so I thought I'd get one of my own. This rower has great build quality and design. It provides plenty of resistance. I have found the control for the variable resistance to work quite well. I really like this machine.

LOVE IT as does my wifey! :)

Gives a good workout, Takes up very little space when stored upright, and easy to move into position for use. Moves as smoothly and seems as durable as the ones at the gym.