LIT Strength Machine Review: It's a rower but not as we know it...
LIT BACKGROUND
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.
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.
ASSEMBLY
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.
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.
LIT STRENGTH MACHINE
8.8
LIT Method Rower
THE HARDWARE
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 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.
For peace of mind the warranty is a very good one with a lifetime on the frame, and five years on all other parts.
DISPLAY CONSOLE
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!
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!
A great choice of exercise workouts to suit all abilities - click image for more info.
Please 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.
To perform the off-rower exercises, you attach the resistance bands and various accessories to hooks placed strategically on the machine.
REVIEW 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.
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.
MY OVERALL SCORE
This model has a lot to offer. The quality is good, the workouts wide and varied. I score it 88%.
PROS:
- Very versatile piece of kit that requires little space in the home
- Great build quality
- Over 500 on-demand workouts - more added each month
- Suitable for all ages and athletic ability (from beginner to elite)
- Very sturdy - supports user up to 400 lbs!!!
- Suitable for tall users - up to 6' 9"
- You'll never get bored of just rowing
- The LIT App has over 500 exercises (more added each month)
- An impressive selection of accessories are included - others available at extra cost
- No electricity required (although you obviously have to charge your tablet/ smartphone)
- Small footprint needed for storage (stands vertically)
- Good warranty for peace of mind
- Great after-sales support
CONS:
- Needs an additional monitor if it's going to appeal to rowing enthusiast
- Price is a little high - but payment options are available
- No way to monitor your performance (tracking stats) over the long-term if you cancel your monthly subscription to the on-demand classes
SPECIFICATION
Resistance type: WATER
Max user weight: 400 lbs
Dimensions: 84"(L) x 21"(W) x 19"(H)
Machine weight: 90 lbs (with water)
Warranty: Lifetime on frame / 5 years on parts
Max user weight: 400 lbs
Dimensions: 84"(L) x 21"(W) x 19"(H)
Machine weight: 90 lbs (with water)
Warranty: Lifetime on frame / 5 years on parts
ALTERNATIVES
|
Hydrow Rower:
9.5/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
The Hydrow is the closest rival to the Ergatta at time of writing (March 2021). It's platform has more 'real' river rows and trainer-led sessions. There are similarities, but the Hydrow is a electromagnetic resistance machine against Ergatta's water.
HYDROW REVIEW >>> |
|
Life Fitness Heat Row:
9.6/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
The Life Fitness Heat Row is currently the top-priced rowing machine for the home market. It took this top brand a while to take the rower seriously (previously badged rowers were a huge disappointment), but boy do they make up for it with this one!
HEAT ROW REVIEW >>> |
You are here: Home | Rowing Machine Reviews | LIT Strength Machine