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Stamina Body Trac 1050 Rowing Machine Review


The Stamina Trac Glider is a big seller on the internet - due mainly to its price. But beware, it does have its weaknesses. For some these will definitely be a deal-breaker, but for others it will be a low-cost way to stay in shape. 

It does look very dated these days - almost retro even, but then others might call it crude with its mechanical resistance system. This is a hydraulic rower that uses a single piston underneath the main column to provide the resistance. Some of our reviewers found regular heavy use caused problems with the piston. After about 15 minutes of use the resistance drops and it hardly takes any effort to row. 

This doesn't seem to be an issue for light users so It's probably a problem with the gas/ oil mix in the piston. However, if you're buying a rower to lose weight the resistance problem could prevent you working out long enough, and at the right work rate to start burning fat

Another deal-breaker for us is the foot rests. Three out of our five testers had problems keeping their feet strapped in - which means you have to keep stopping to strap them back in position. It also means every time you try to row faster, you're waiting for your feet to pop out again! A big and unwelcome distraction and one of the most frustrating things to suffer when you're trying to put in a good session. 

This can be resolved by fitting thicker velcro straps - but this should be something sorted before it gets to gets to the market

The seat is quite comfortable for a budget model and the action is fine for short workouts of fifteen minutes or less. If you're planning on training for longer periods you may find this model less comfortable. It's quite sturdy for a compact machine and also folds up for easy storage - something to consider if space is short. The twelve resistance levels should be plenty for most users - but remember this can drop off during longer workouts.
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The Console/ Monitor
It's pretty basic but easy to use. It will tell you how far you've rowed in each session, how long it took and estimates how many calories you've burned.

It doesn't come with preset programs, or the option to store workout performance - but this is a budget model so you shouldn't expect too much. 

It is small and not set in the best position, but to be honest, it's not going to display a huge amount of useful information to keep you interested during your workout.
Summary:
The Trac Glider 1050 is a budget machine so you wouldn't expect to see features you'd find on more expensive models. We give it 50% because it is under $120 and therefore an option for many who cannot afford other rowers, bikes or elliptical trainers. However, it is still your money you're spending and don't want a piece of equipment you're no longer using in a month's time. In our view, it's fine for light workouts a few times a week. But if you're serious about getting into shape, and will be using it on a regular basis this machine isn't for you - see our alternative recommendations below.

​
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.
Stamina Trac Glider: 3.5/ 10 3.5 Stars Reviewer: R. Palmer

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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • The price - it's very cheap
  • It's reasonably quiet  (definitely quieter than an air-resistant rower)
  • A pretty solid steel frame
  • It's compact and easy to store away
  • Good for occasional use
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • The foot rests - your feet may slip
  • The resistance drops after heavy use.
  • The seat isn't very comfortable for longer workouts.
  • Warranty is quite limited.
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification:
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Required space:
Machine weight:
Storage space:
Hydraulic
250 lbs

5' 10" x 3' 7"
6' x 4'
39 lbs
46" x 26" x 19"


Picture
Warranty:
1 year on frame.
3 months on parts.

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StaminaBodyTracRef

Click image to enlarge
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050



 seat
Good seat for a budget machine




Stamina Trac Glider display and console
Basic but informative display




STamina Trac Glider folded
Folds up nice and compact
   
Also worth a look:
For around $50 extra you'll get a better model with the Stamina Easy Glide. If you can spend more and prefer this type of rower, the Kettler Kadett is a better machine in our view. Or one of Stamina's other models would be better - see the Orbital - it's costs another $100 but is worth it.

Trac Glider owner's comments

"I've had a few problems with the oars becoming loose and constantly need tightening. This is annoying as apart from that I find it a good machine for the price." Harriet P. (5 months)

"I am 6' 2" and find some rowing machines difficult to use but the Trac Glider works just fine for me. It feels rigid when I row fast and I like the real rowing action of using both oars and not a bar you get on most rowers. My only beef is the seat isn't comfortable. I bought a thin cushion and fixed it to the seat. I guess when you're paying under $150 you can't expect everything to be right." Larry M. (3 months)

"A pile of junk. Wouldn't recommend it. The resistance is all over the place being stiff one moment and loose the next. My feet kept coming free because the straps are totally useless - this is extremely annoying when you're trying to workout. I appreciate it's a low-priced model but something as simple as putting on a strap that actually works surely shouldn't be beyond the manufacturer! It's now at the back of the garage to make space for the Kettler I hope to purchase in the new year." Mark W. (2 months only)

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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