MaxKare Water Rowing Machine Water Rower with Water Resistance & Large LCD Display for Home Use

I bought this water rower to replace a hydraulic rower (that was horrible) and compared it to a Concept II air rower that I used extensively in the gym. I waited 2-3 weeks after assmbling it before writing this review.This was one of the most economical water rowing machines - so honestly my expectations were very low. I'm pleased to say that the products well exceeded my expectations.The product was very easy to assemble. There has been no issue with the water tank, which I feared. The foot supports are very well built and sturdy, which is an issue I saw when evaluating other rowers. It is very quite by comparison to an air rower.There are a couple of things that can be improved. 1) I was surprised at how loud the movement of the seat is. Perhaps other rowers' seats are loud too, but just couldn't hear it over the sound of the machine itself. I think this is could be a major improvement. 2) The display is pretty basic and limited - especially when compared to the Concept II. I noticed doing my research that many of the rowers in this price range use the same display. So, probably par for the course.I think this was a very good purchase for the price. With a couple of minor improvements, I would give it 5 stars, but like I said, I'm very pleased with my purchase.

The assembly of this rowing machine was very easy. It takes about half an hour. I was able to do it all by myself up. (I am a 5'4 lady.) All tools are provided and worked fine.The resistance is smooth and feels like you're really rowing on water. The length of the footplates is adjustable and equipped with foot straps, my husband and I both get the most comfortable experience during work-out by setting it to different hole sites.The monitor is large and shows every data you need! The man-machine competition mode is so interesting! I love it!And the whole look of the water rower is fantastic and fit my living room. You can clearly observe the oar's movement when you use it.Very easy to lift to vertical. Saving a lot of space when in no use.All in all, it it a great water rowing machine and I highly recommend it!

Update: After 3 weeks of twice a day use, i'm still impressed with it. However, I can imagine the nylon pull strap will wear out sooner than the chain pull on the Concept 2. The paint on the seat rail is holding up good under the pressure of the rollers. I'm still concerned about the paint holding up over the months/years.I used a Concept 2 for 13 years, sold it and now decided to get back into rowing and bought this machine.Since I'm 72 I didn't want to spend a thousand dollars on a machine that was overbuilt for my reduced usage.PROS:I am blown away by the quality of this machine costing nearly one third of a Concept 2.Great foot pedals that don't pivot (I hate the pivoting kind). The straps are excellent as well as the size adjustment which is designed the same as on the Concept 2.The pull is at least as smooth as with the Concept 2. The seat motion along the rail is nice and smooth like the Concept 2I like the quietness of the machine, much quieter than the Concept 2. The hushed sound of the water is relaxing.The handle is thick enough for my larger hands.The machine is super sturdy.The seat rolls smoothly and is nicely contoured.CONS:8 bolts secure the rail to the body of the machine so it isn't easily split in two for storage.UNKNOWN:The glide rail is painted steel. I'm worried that the paint will eventually flake off along the seat roller track, resulting in bumpy motion.

I am the type of individual who dislikes structured exercise. I need to be "doing something" without knowing I am exercising - a strange thing I know! At first, I was apprehensive about ordering a piece of exercise equipment and having it be a permanent fixture in my home, but once I started rowing, I was very happy I made the purchase. This rowing machine did not disappoint. The sensory is tricked with the sounds, and feeling of paddles cutting through the water - this was nothing less than health-giving and therapeutic. The seat glides quietly, and your feet are securely fastened giving you the confidence to really power through the reps.