LIT Method Strength Machine Review
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Here's something different. The LIT Method (Low Impact Training) is not just any old rowing machine, it's a rower, Reformer (that's a Pilates bit of kit to you and me), and a strength trainer - according to the sales pitch. But... can one machine achieve the results that would normally require three to deliver? Read on and find out.
Before getting onto the machine, let's just clear up what is meant by Low Impact Training - basically, it's a way of training without running, jumping or using weights. Instead, it involves cardio, strength, and the sort of exercises a physical therapist uses (although this is no substitute for prescribed exercises from a qualifies PT). This makes it especially ideal for those susceptible to injuries from other types of workouts, those recovering from injury, or in rehab following illness. But note, anyone can and will benefit from LIT training. So... moving on, let's take a look at what comes in the box. The nuts and bolts of the rower is based on what looks to be the ever-reliable First Degree Fluid Rowing range. It has a water tank at the front that provides the resistance for the workouts including the rowing, strength and flexibility exercises. You also get an impressive selection of accessories that turn the humble rower into the strength and reformer machines mentioned above - but note, there are other accessories you have to pay for if you want to do the complete range of exercises. It couldn't be simpler to assemble as the tools are provided, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. Moving onto the rowing machine first, the seat is comfortable and at a decent height so you don't have to get into a deep squat to get on it - or strain the old, creaky knees to get off after a vigorous session :0) The handle has a good diameter, is well-padded, so will fit nicely into your hands and therefore not cause blisters with heavy use. The wide footrests have a good range of settings to hold the biggest or smallest of feet securely in place, thus preventing one of the most annoying things while using a rower - having to stop and re-strap your feet because they keep slipping!
As mentioned above, this is a fluid rower which means it uses water for resistance. Water-resistant rowing machines have always split users, some love it (including me) as it makes a satisfying whooshing sound as you row. Others don't like the feel of water as opposed to air, which ironically produces a more authentic feel of rowing on open water. Some mistakenly believe fluid rowers also require more maintenance, but if you can't cope with dropping a water-purification tablet in the tank every 4 to 6 months, then perhaps a rower isn't for you :0) Another big plus - while you need to add or remove water to change the resistance level with some fluid rowing machines, this model can be adjusted twisting a knob on the top of the tank , and also changing the amount of water in the tank to select 10 to 40 lbs of resistance - a wide enough range for most users. You can find out more about the different types of resistance used for rowing machines here... We'll come onto the exercise and online part in a moment, but just to complete this section, the LIT Method Strength Machine can be stored vertically when you're finished. This means it takes up little space when not in use - great if your humble home is just that and floor space is limited. For peace of mind the warranty is a very good one with a lifetime on the frame, and five years on all other parts. The Console/ Monitor
Well here's the thing... it doesn't have a monitor in the sense that other rowing machines do. You attach your tablet or smartphone (obviously these aren't included), and then you access the workouts via the LIT App (which is excellent btw, and easy to use). There are at present over 500 exercises available online. These are split into ten categories and include rowing (obviously), mat strength workouts, rowing X strength, Pilates, abs workouts, recovery, and even mindfulness, which is the first time we can recall seeing on an online rowing service - so kudos to LIT! But note, a monthly subscription is required to use the app - it currently costs $24.99 a month which is less than the cost of both the Ergatta and Hydrow fees. However, your first month is free, and the subscription can be cancelled at any time. But if you cancel, you obviously lose access to the instructors and exercises, but also your tracked performances. To perform the off-rower exercises, you attach the resistance bands and various accessories to hooks placed strategically on the machine. Summary:
As a standalone piece of home fitness equipment, you'll struggle to find anything that's quite so versatile and provide such an all-round workout. The online instruction is first class, the exercises are varied to keep you interested, and well-designed, plus the rower itself great to use. But as a rowing machine, we really think it would benefit from having a standard monitor and the facility to record your performance. If you're looking for one piece of kit to use at home for cardio, strength and flexibility, this is a great option. If you're looking to row, then the lack of a monitor may put you off and you'll be better off looking at the models mentioned in 'Also Worth a Look' section below.
LIT Method Rower:
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QUICK REFERENCE
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LIT Method Strength Machine
Good seat
LIT Accessories for off-rower exercises
Small footprint required for storage
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Also worth a look:
There's a number of competitors in the high-end, high-tech rower market. These include the feature-packed Hydrow, Ergatta and CityRow, or for just a standard rowing machine without all the thrills (or price tag), the First Degree Newport is a good alternative.
There's a number of competitors in the high-end, high-tech rower market. These include the feature-packed Hydrow, Ergatta and CityRow, or for just a standard rowing machine without all the thrills (or price tag), the First Degree Newport is a good alternative.
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