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First Degree Neptune Rowing Machine Review


The First Degree Neptune is a very modern looking water resistance rower (or fluid rower in their language) and the opposite to the beautifully crafted Waterrower Natural, and around $300 less. One of the main benefits of the Neptune is that it can be stored vertically in a very small space (see below for dimensions). So if space is an issue then this is a good choice, and if you live in an apartment, it's also much quieter than an air resistance rower.

The rowing position is comfortable, although the seat may not be to your liking if you're on the large side. The pivoting foot-boards are fine and aid a good technique, plus our reviewers feet stayed tightly strapped in - something that can't be said for some other machines we've tried.

One disadvantage water rowers have is that you cannot easily change the resistance level as with magnetic or air machines. You do get some higher resistance when you row faster but to get variation you have to alter the water levels (the tank can take between 9 to 17 liters.) Not a huge inconvenience but you don't get the advantage of heart rate programs as with a magnetic machine like the Lifecore R100 - although the R100 does cost around $400 more!
Check price on Amazon...
With some rowers you'll get a 'dead spot'. This is at the start or finish of the action where you'll feel no resistance and feel you're starting again when it kicks back in. Well with the Neptune you get none - no dead spots at all thanks to the triple-bladed 'fan' in the water tank. This means you feel an instant catch at the start of each cycle and feel a strong pull right through the stroke - a real plus.
The Console/ Monitor
It's okay but not brilliant. In our view it lets down the rower and would look more at home on a budget model than this one. The LCD display is large enough to read and will tell you the usual stuff you need to know such as distance, time,strokes per minute and calories burnt. It also has an annoying beep every time you row - this could become a distraction during long workouts.

Another disappointment is that it can't measure your pulse rate - something that is quite important in our view for both optimal training and safety if you're of a certain age. 
Other machines in this price range do display pulse, if you pay a little more you'll also get race functions and PC compatible consoles to monitor your progress over time. Extras like these can help with motivation and keep you coming back for more.

Summary:
The Neptune is a great rower for the price and good value for money. With a better display/ console it could be a real winner - but then it would cost more. First Degree have made rapid progress in establishing themselves on the fitness equipment sector, specifically with their water resistance machines - or as they call them, a 'fluid rower'. Their commercial machines are something else - you can read us gushing about the Evolution E520 here. We'll be reviewing the next model up in this range soon (the Pacific) which we believe has more functions. ​
However, unless you're a serious rower or a geek for stats, the Neptune will give you good service and therefore get you into shape. 

​
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.
First Degree Neptune: 7.5/ 10 7.5 Stars Reviewer: R. Palmer

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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • It looks great and is well made.
  • Stores vertically into a very small footprint - also has wheels for easy transit.
  • Smooth rowing action.
  • No dead spots!
  • Love the whoosh of the water - much nicer than fans on air resistance rowers
  • Good solid feel even at high stroke rate.
  • Good value for money.
  • First Degree customer service and after sales team are excellent.
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • The display/ console is very limited.
  • The monitor beep can't be switched off (just like the lights on a Volvo!)
  • Not easy to change resistance compared to air or magnetic rowers.
  • Seat not the most comfortable - especially if your butt is ..err....big.
  • Putting it together took nearly 40 minutes (but you only do it once)
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification:
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Required space:
Machine weight:
Storage space:
Water
300 lbs

78" x 21" x 21"
7' x 3'
77 lbs
21" x 20" footprint


Picture
Warranty:
5 years on frame
2 years on tank
1 year on all parts

QUICK REFERENCE
FirstDegreeNeptuneRef

Click images to enlarge
First Degree Neptune Rower
First Degree Neptune rower


​  
Lifecore R100 display / console
Neptune display / console


First Degree Neptune folding rower
Folded for easy storage
 






 
Also worth a look:
If you're specifically looking for a water resistance rowing machine then the other alternatives are the cheaper Sunny Obsidian Surge or Sunny Phantom Hydro. Or if you've got more to spend the two from Waterrower are great machines, the Natural or A1 Home. If it doesn't have to be a fluid machine, the Concept2 Model D is a great alternative.

User comments

"After deciding against the Waterrower Natural due to space restrictions (and also money) I opted for the Neptune and I'm happy to say I love it. It's sleek lines and modern design look great and it's a joy to row on." Iain G. (user for 4 months)

"I've used one of First Degree's commercial rowers at my health club and was very impressed. When I wanted a rowing machine for home it seemed like an obvious choice. No way could I afford the $1,700 for the same model so I opted for the Neptune and it's great. Of course it's not going to be as good as a gym model but the build quality is excellent and love the way if feels. It has the same solid feel as the gym machine and even folds up nice and neat when I've finished. I have no hesitation in recommending this to anyone interested in home fitness rowing." Andy Weston, (6 months)

Own a Neptune? Please share your views with us:-

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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