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Conquer Magnetic Rowing Machine Review


Conquer is not a name that leaps off the page when you're looking for a rowing machine. In fact, none of the reviewers we use had ever heard of it until we received a request about this brand.

But that doesn't mean it's not worth a look - so here we go.

Looks can be deceptive. This has to be one of the 'skinniest' rowers out there and our first worry was this it wouldn't cope with a heavy user at a high strokes rates. But it is in fact quite a sturdy machine and can handle a user of up to 300 pounds - more on this later.

Assembly is quite straightforward and the instructions are good and easy to follow ans shouldn't take longer than 30 minutes.

The rowing position is good with the seat being high enough to save your lower back and knees when getting on and off. The seat itself is wide, supportive and comfortable - even for long workouts. The seat is often overlooked by brands at the mid to low price range yet it's an important component. If it's uncomfortable you're not going to want to sit on it for long. Yes it is possible to buy seat cushions to fit over, but these can often cost over $50 for a good one, and the lower-priced one can often slip when rowing.

The handle has a good width and thickness, is well-padded and can be used without gloves to prevent blisters. The Conquer uses a strap for pulling and looks tough enough to cope with regular use. Many models in the higher price-bracket use chains, but these do require maintenance and with better materials, the straps last far longer than they used to.
Check price on Amazon...
The resistance is a combination of air and magnets. It's quiet for an air rower but this is because the flywheel is quite small and so relies more on magnetic resistance. The air from the flywheel is channeled through an outlet on the central column to help keep you cool when working out. But note, while this also uses magnetic resistance the monitor does not control the resistance level so it has to be selected manually using the knob on the central column - see photo. This means you have to stop rowing and change the level and interval training is not an option.

Some may find the range between the 8 levels of resistance is not wide enough and the fitter, more athletic types will feel it doesn't challenge them.
​Monitor/ Display
The large LCD is clear and easy to read. It displays time, meters, strokes, calories, strokes per minute, level, watts (useful for Tabata workouts), and 500 meter split times. It has three programs modes that allow you to set a target or either time, distance or calories. For example, if you want to burn off that Snickers Bar you ate after lunch, you set the target for 300 calories and you row until it beeps :0)

Unfortunately, the Conquer monitor does not have a heart rate receiver so heart rate training programs are not an option. Of course you can always wear one of your own, but the rower will not adjust your target rates to keep you in the optimum fat-burning zone. This sort of feature is available on the LifeCore R100.
​Summary:
This is a 'nice' rowing machine for the price and many will find it's minimalist, sleek looks a good fit for them. However, there's nothing that really makes it stand out from the competition. Yes, it will give you several years of service for a reasonable price to get you fit, but will it inspire you to workout day-in, day-out? We think not - but then again, you do have to pay more something like a Concept2 that has the features to keep you coming back for more.

Update: Sept 2019 - currently available for $199 which makes it a steal :0)

Note: This website is an associate of Amazon and a number of other retailers. We earn a commission from sales generated via these links, 
​but this does not influence how we rate the rowing machines we review.
Conquer Magnetic: 7.5/ 10 7.5 Stars Reviewer: R. Palmer

check best price online

 
rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • It's looks (although some may not like its sleek appearance)
  • Has 8 resistance levels
  • Solid feel - Good rowing position
  • Long beam suits taller user
  • Large LCD screen
  • 3 pre-set programs
  • High seat (less wear-and-tear on your knees!)
  • Air outlet to keep you cool(ish)
  • Transport wheels for easy moving
  • Folding model - but see below
  • Good warranty
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • No heart rate receiver - so no HR programs
  • No auto-resistance level selector
  • Narrow range between high and low resistance levels
  • Has no real standout features
  • Still quite space-hungry when folded
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification:
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:

Air/Magnetic
300 lbs

96"(L) 20"(W) 44"(H)
94 lbs


Picture
Warranty:
​3 years on frame.

1 year on parts

QUICK REFERENCE
Conquer
Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine side view
The Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine

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Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine seat
Comfortable seat


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Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine resistance knob
8 levels of magnetic resistance
  


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Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine monitor and display
Informative console




Conquer Indoor Magnetic Rowing Machine folded
Folding model

Also worth a look:
For around $50 less you'll get a comparable machine in the Velocity CHR-2001. If the idea of a water rowing machine appeals, then the Stamina Wave is great value.

Other Conquer owners comments

Do you own a Conquer? Please let us know what you think:-

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  • Home
  • Reviews
  • Benefits
    • weightloss
    • Rowing Machine Technique
    • rower verses exercise bike
    • rower verses treadmill
    • rower verses elliptical cross trainer
    • Injuries
    • Setting Goals
  • Brands
  • Buyers Guide
    • Compare
    • Types
    • used
    • Dropshippers
    • terminology
    • retailer strategies
    • Buy from store or web
    • Help
  • UK Rowers
  • Workouts
    • Example Workouts
    • Tabata Rowing Workouts
    • Time Trial Workouts
    • Duration Workout
    • Heart Rate Training Programs
    • Rowing Machine Workout Program
    • Training Apps
    • Bad Workout Habits
  • Concept2
    • Model D vs Model E
  • WaterRower
  • Blog
  • The zone
    • Awareness and Focus
    • Peak Performance Zone
  • Fitness Tests
    • Cardio Vascular Fitness Test
    • Balance Test
    • Coordination Test
  • Maintenance
    • mats
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap
    • Your Privacy
    • Disclaimer