Stamina Body Trac 1050 Rowing Machine Review
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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.
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 $150 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.  Best Price:
* These prices may differ - please check Amazon for latest.
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QUICK REFERENCE
Click image to enlarge  Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 
Good seat for a budget machine
Basic but informative display
Folds up nice and compact
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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.
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)
Do you use one? Share your views here:-
"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)
Do you use one? Share your views here:-
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