Sunny Full Motion SF-RW1410 Rower
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It ain't going to win any prizes for it's looks but then it is one of the lowest priced rowing machines you can buy. So bear in mind the fact that it's only around $110 while you read the rest. In other words, don't set your expectations too high, or even half-way up the bar for Sunny's Full Motion rower.
To save you time by not reading this whole page, I'll state right up front that is you're already reasonably fit, and/ or weigh over 180 pounds, or are over six foot tall, please move along and look for another machine. This really isn't for you because the resistance will not challenge you, the machine will move around, and the beam will be too short to fully extend your legs to get a full range of movement. So, if you're still here I assume you don't fall into the categories above. But even so, if you can afford to spend another $100 then you can find a better option to get fit and loose weight (please see other recommendations below.) The most distinctive feature of the Full Motion is obviously the handles (or oars). Top commercial rowing machines have a short bar which in my view makes for a much better technique and more vigorous workout. Many will struggle with the long arms, but if you're recovering from illness, or elderly, the range of movement will be sufficient and will possibly prevent injury through over-training. The seat is wide and okay if you have padding of your own - if you get what I mean. But if you're on the skinny side you may find the seat becomes uncomfortable quite quickly and you'll need to use a cushion of a couple of inches of foam to make it easier on your butt. The next big issue is the hydraulic resistance. The cylinder beneath the seat has an adjustable collar to select one of the twelve levels available. However, in common with a number of budget hydraulic models, the resistance drops off almost to nothing after fifteen minutes use as the oil inside heats up. But even before you get to this stage, you may notice little difference between the lowest and highest levels of resistance. This is a real deal-breaker if you're looking for something to get you into shape as you could spend 20 minutes on this machine and not break sweat. While it's not necessary to row at the highest level of resistance to get a good workout (see using resistance levels), you do need something for your muscles to pull against to get the benefits of rowing. As mentioned earlier, if you're large, well-built or tall, you might find the frame moves around a little when rowing at a high stroke rate. The frame itself is made of steel and is reasonably well put together. The wide footrests should be large enough for most users' feet and will keep them securely in place. The warranty is only three months but this seems a bit short, even for a bit of kit costing as little as this does.
Summary:
I did say not to set your expectations too high based on the price so you won't be surprised if I say this machine is fine if you're unfit, recovering from an injury or illness, or elderly and only looking for the lightest of workouts. But even then you might find you quickly outgrow this machine. Best Price:
* Note these prices may differ - please check retailer website for latest.
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QUICK REFERENCE
Click images to enlarge
Sunny Full Motion SF-RW1410 Rower
The seat is... okay
Uses hydraulic piston for resistance
Standard display
Footrests
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Also worth a look:
If you can stretch to another hundred bucks, the Sunny magnetic is a much better option with some good features for something still in the budget range.
If you can stretch to another hundred bucks, the Sunny magnetic is a much better option with some good features for something still in the budget range.
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