Life Fitness Heat Row - is the high price tag justified?
HEAT ROW BACKGROUND
The Heat Row has convinced me the top brand in fitness equipment is finally taking the rowing machine seriously. Previous rowers from them were quite frankly a big disappointment. Well not any more. Things have changed.
Well firstly, this appears to be machine designed by Life Fitness from scratch, whereas we suspect their previous models were manufactured elsewhere and badged. The Heat Row has the look and feel of a true Life Fitness machine, that is, you can instantly see the quality, and feel the caliber of the materials used. If this was a car, it would be a Rolls Royce - understated quality, in that is doesn't rub it in your face. This machine literally purrs class. If you want bling, this isn't for you.
So let's get the awkward question out of the way here and talk about the price tag. This beauty will set you back close to $3,000 - take a breath - yes, that's $3 grand. But what do you get for the price?
Please read on if you're still in the game.
Well firstly, this appears to be machine designed by Life Fitness from scratch, whereas we suspect their previous models were manufactured elsewhere and badged. The Heat Row has the look and feel of a true Life Fitness machine, that is, you can instantly see the quality, and feel the caliber of the materials used. If this was a car, it would be a Rolls Royce - understated quality, in that is doesn't rub it in your face. This machine literally purrs class. If you want bling, this isn't for you.
So let's get the awkward question out of the way here and talk about the price tag. This beauty will set you back close to $3,000 - take a breath - yes, that's $3 grand. But what do you get for the price?
Please read on if you're still in the game.
LIFE FITNESS HEAT ROW
9.6
LISTEN ON THE GO - Heat Row Audio Review
ASSEMBLY
Assembly is really quite straightforward and shouldn't take most people longer than 25 minutes; some might even manage 15 mins if you're good with this sort of thing. There's only the front stabilizer and monitor arm to be fixed into place. Then you remove the resistance mechanism cover to connect the battery, then set up the console. And hey, you're ready to go.
One word of caution. This is a bit of a beast weighing in at 136 lbs, so bear that in mind before you start the assembly - you don't want to put your back out because you'll be itching to have a go when you've finished assembly.
One word of caution. This is a bit of a beast weighing in at 136 lbs, so bear that in mind before you start the assembly - you don't want to put your back out because you'll be itching to have a go when you've finished assembly.
The Classy Life Fitness Heat Row
THE HARDWARE
I've already mentioned the quality, but it's so discernable it's worth mentioning again. You get quality materials, top notch components, combined with expert design to create an instant impression as soon as you sit on what has to be the most comfortable seat on any piece of fitness equipment. And all this before you even start to row.
First, let's talk about the rowing position. The seat is a respectable 17.7" off the floor so you don't have to get into a deep squat to sit on it - and I've already discussed the comfort :0)
I soon came to appreciate the convenience of the quick release ratchets on the foot rests. After a punishing workout, it can be a challenge to free your feet so you can place them on the floor and put your head between your knees to recover! No damp Velcro straps to mess about with on this model - I just flicked the tab, and there you go, my feet are free!
The angled handle fitted snuggly in my palms - no matter how sweaty they get. A button on the handle allows you to operate the monitor and toggle between modes without having to stop (more on this below). A second button lets you start/stop a split time which is useful to monitor and compare your performance over a set distance - usually 500m.
The resistance mechanism is a combination of static air and magnets meaning its incredibly quiet - possibly one of the quietest I've heard (or not), and compares alongside the Hydrow. It has a phenomenal 100 levels of resistance! One of the biggest criticisms I hear about rowing machines is the lack of range in the resistance, in that even the highest levels don't challenge the user. Well not with the Heat Row - you'll easily find the best workout rate to suit you. The level is selected by the knob on the central column - it even emits a satisfying click as you twist it around.
And when you're done, you lift it by the handle at the back of the beam, tilt it up, and roll it out of the way on the transport wheels beneath the front supports. But note, this machine cannot be stored vertically like many models to save space. However, if you've got 3 big ones to spend on a rowing machine, I'm guessing space is not an issue :0)
The only beef I have with this model is that the warranty looks a little on the light side. You get 3 years on the frame, 2 years on the parts, and 1 year on the electronics. For a machine this good, you would expect more, but then again, Life Fitness equipment do have an excellent reputation for longevity, so why not put your money where your mouth is, eh.
First, let's talk about the rowing position. The seat is a respectable 17.7" off the floor so you don't have to get into a deep squat to sit on it - and I've already discussed the comfort :0)
I soon came to appreciate the convenience of the quick release ratchets on the foot rests. After a punishing workout, it can be a challenge to free your feet so you can place them on the floor and put your head between your knees to recover! No damp Velcro straps to mess about with on this model - I just flicked the tab, and there you go, my feet are free!
The angled handle fitted snuggly in my palms - no matter how sweaty they get. A button on the handle allows you to operate the monitor and toggle between modes without having to stop (more on this below). A second button lets you start/stop a split time which is useful to monitor and compare your performance over a set distance - usually 500m.
The resistance mechanism is a combination of static air and magnets meaning its incredibly quiet - possibly one of the quietest I've heard (or not), and compares alongside the Hydrow. It has a phenomenal 100 levels of resistance! One of the biggest criticisms I hear about rowing machines is the lack of range in the resistance, in that even the highest levels don't challenge the user. Well not with the Heat Row - you'll easily find the best workout rate to suit you. The level is selected by the knob on the central column - it even emits a satisfying click as you twist it around.
And when you're done, you lift it by the handle at the back of the beam, tilt it up, and roll it out of the way on the transport wheels beneath the front supports. But note, this machine cannot be stored vertically like many models to save space. However, if you've got 3 big ones to spend on a rowing machine, I'm guessing space is not an issue :0)
The only beef I have with this model is that the warranty looks a little on the light side. You get 3 years on the frame, 2 years on the parts, and 1 year on the electronics. For a machine this good, you would expect more, but then again, Life Fitness equipment do have an excellent reputation for longevity, so why not put your money where your mouth is, eh.
PERFORMANCE MONITOR
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My first thought when looking at the monitor was... is that it? It's not much to look at to be honest.
The screen initially looks a bit on the small side compared to other top rowers in this price bracket - see 'Alternatives' below. But when I started to row and use it, I realized this is actually a very well-designed screen and monitor - remember the 'understated quality'? The color LCD screen displays exactly what you need to know in an uncomplicated way at a single glance. |
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This includes your workout time, distance rowed, strokes per minute, 500 meter split time, resistance level (1-100), calories 'burned', Watts (more on this below), and your heart rate. There are 3 modes of display to choose how you view your workout progress. As mentioned earlier this can be selected from a button on the handle.
 The Somewhat Underwhelming Display |
The monitor has a number of programs to choose from. These include Quick Start - just get on and start rowing. Intervals 30 secs-60 secs, Interval 60 secs-60 secs, Interval Custom - you set the interval times, Target Time - you set the time to train, Calories - set how many calories you want to burn, Distance - how far you want to row, Heart Rate - set your target HR to maintain, Power Training - set your resistance level and pull like hell, Heart Rate Training - set your optimum rate, Race a Distance - set a distance and time and race against the monitor, and Race a Friend - set a time for your friend to beat.
You can read more about types of rowing workouts here... Now for the cool part. The screen changes color (from green, yellow, orange and red) based on your Functional Threshold Power (FTP) that you set for your target training work rate. Your FTP is the maximum power you can hold over 60 minutes measured in watts. The bods at Life Fitness claim the Heat Row Performance can measure this with 99% accuracy, making this the most precise performance monitor out there. You can read more about Wattage Training here, but in short, they go by the name of Tabata Workouts (after the founder) and are the most scientific way to improve your performance in the most efficient way. So having this function on your rowing machine is a real benefit. |
REVIEW SUMMARY:
Did I mention the quality? You may think I've overdone the praise of the build quality, but the Heat Row really does stand out from the crowd with its class. Yes, it does cost an arm and a leg, but you will get a fantastic rowing machine that will last a lifetime and keep you coming back for more. The design makes it a joy to use, and if this beauty from Life Fitness doesn't get you into the best shape of your life... then nothing will. If you have the money, you will not be disappointed.
IS THE HEAT ROW FOR YOU?
YES - if you have the cash and are a perfectionist, or just love your workouts to be uncomplicated with no frills it's a no brainer.
NO - if you want online races, live trainer-led workouts, or enjoy the 'real' river rows the new boys on the block offer - see below.
NO - if you want online races, live trainer-led workouts, or enjoy the 'real' river rows the new boys on the block offer - see below.
MY OVERALL SCORE
It may come as no surprise that at time of writing (October 2021), this is the highest rated rowing machine on my site scoring 1% more than 2nd and 3rd place - see 'Alternatives' below.
CATEGORY |
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PROS |
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Superb build quality - did I mention that? |
Quick release footrests - no Velcro here! |
Long beam - suitable for users up to 6' 6" |
Ability to control the monitor using buttons on the handle |
A staggering 100 levels of magnetic resistance |
It feels just... well, wonderful. |
Color LCD monitor is easy to use and read |
The Wattage workouts are very effective |
Bluetooth connectivity |
A very tough and durable rowing machine |
Smooth action |
Very, very quiet |
One of the most accurate consoles out there |
CONS |
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There's very little not to like |
No online features as yet |
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Cannot be stored vertically - unsuitable for smaller spaces |
The warranty should be longer for the price you pay |
| Resistance Type | AIR + MAGNETIC |
| Max User Weight | 330 lbs |
| Machine Weight | 136 lbs |
| Length | 85 in |
| Height | 48 in |
| Width | 32 in |
| Warranty | 3 years on frame / 2 years on parts / 1 year on electronics |
ALTERNATIVES
If you're in the market for a top quality bit of kit, there's only two models that come anywhere near.
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HYDROW ROWER9.5
The Hydrow took my breath away when I first had the pleasure of trying one - and not just literally of course :0) This model took a giant leap forward for the rower. It's a joy to use with its super-quiet magnetic resistance, the smooth rail, and the best part, the online platform with its real river rows.
FULL HYDROW REVIEW >> |
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ERGATTA ROWER9.5
The Ergatta has some of the most innovative workout programs I've seen. Many are games based where the harder you work, the faster your little guy on the screen progress through a number of obstacles, or speeds into the lead in races. Based on a WaterRower, it combines beautiful woodcraft with a super hi-tech platform.
READ ERGATTA REVIEW >> |