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Sunny SF-RW5633 Rowing Machine Review


The Sunny SF-RW5633 rowing machine adds to the choice of air rowers in the sub $300 market. Air is the preferred resistance type for rowers who actually row on water as it best replicates the action and feel of a real boat. But the one drawback with this type of machine is the noise. This isn't a problem if you use it where you won't disturb friends, family or neighbors, but in a small room or apartment this may be a factor to consider and magnetic would be a better option.

If noise doesn't bother you, please read on.

This isn't a difficult machine to assemble (although unpacking does take some time seeing as everything is taped and strapped in very securely). The instructions are good and the relevant tools are provided.

The rowing position is okay I guess, but the seat isn't the most comfortable - I have found better on other budget models. The seat is quite low, but again this is common on rowers like these. If you do experience knee or low back pain, a higher seat position would be better - see the 'Also worth a look' section below for details of the Stamina 1130 which does have a higher seat.

​The chunky handle allows for a good grip and prevents slippage, plus the wide, tilting footrests are up to the job of keeping you feet in place. So all-in-all, as long as your back and knees are in good order, and you don't require extra padding for your butt, the SF-RW5633 has a reasonably comfortable position for a budget model.

The long beam makes this model suitable for users up to 6' 3" as you'll be able to get a full stroke that delivers the full benefit of rowing. But note, this is a light model weighing in at only 42 pounds. This is fine for moving it around but not so good if you're on the heavier side of 200 lbs and up. At this weight you may find the machine doesn't feel quite as sturdy as it should at higher stroke rates. Of course a rowing machine mat would help to stop it moving, but it will still creek and squeak under strain - note, the maximum user weight is 220 lbs.

The 8 resistance levels are selected using the knob beneath the display. The difference between the high and low levels is enough to offer variation - but because it's a manual selection you have to stop to change the level. Higher-priced magnetic machines have pre-set programs that will automatically set the resistance level to keep you in the fat-burning zone. These are often combined with heart rate training programs for optimum results - but then you will have to pay at least twice this price to get this sort of feature.

One more thing. This is a folding model and is very light and easy to move thanks to the built-in wheels on the front legs - but even when folded it still requires quite a bit of space to store (see photo below right.)

 Monitor/ Display Unit
Of course it's going to be a pretty basic display and monitor when it's part of a budget buy.

The small LCD screen is clear and it displays the minimal amount of information you need to know, such as time, stroke count, strokes per minute and calories. But note, the calories are never that accurate on these machines but can still be used as a comparison to your other workouts.​
Unfortunately, the monitor won't give you the distance you've rowed. This can be an issue if you won't to do split times and distance workouts like 'real' rowers - for example, if you want to know how you compare against top rowers over the standard 2000 meters.
Summary:
It's not a bad rowing machine for the price you pay. In fact, if you're looking for a basic, no-nonsense piece of kit at a low price to help you stay in shape, this is the sort of machine you should consider. But note, if your ambitions are higher, and you have more money to spend then you need to aim further up market. See our 'Also worth a look' section 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.
Sunny Sf-RW5633: 4.5/ 10 4.5 Stars Reviewer: R. Palmer

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rowing machine review likes
We Like...
  • Good price
  • Has 8 levels of resistance (good difference between hi and lo)
  • Reasonable build quality for a low-cost rowing machine
  • Long beam - good for users up to 6' 3" - but check your weight
  • Light and easy to move (but check negatives below)
  • The air fan beneath monitor keeps you cool
​
Picture
We Don't Like...
  • It's noisy as with most air rowers
  • The very basic monitor
  • Takes up a lot of space when folded
  • Seat is not the best even for a budget machine
  • Quite a low maximum user weight
  • Feels a little too light for our bigger rowers
  • Not too steady if you're on the heavier side (200 lbs and up)
 
rowing machine review specification
Technical specification: 
Resistance type:
Max user weight:
Dimensions:
Machine weight:

Air
220 lbs

76" x 24" (W) x 27" (H)
42 lbs



Picture
Warranty:
3 months frame and parts
QUICK REFERENCE
Sunny5633
Click image to enlarge
  
Side view of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5633 air rowing machine
Sunny SF-RW5633
 
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5633 rowing machine seat
Okay for short workouts

  
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5633 display
About as basic as they come

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Resistance selector on Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5633 air rowing machine
No need to read the manual for how to use this part
   
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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5633 air rowing machine folded
Folding model... just about
Also worth a look:
If noise isn't an issue for you, and you prefer an air machine then the Stamina Air rower is a tough old boot that will last years - but at extra cost. If you want a quieter model, for not too much more the Stamina 1130 magnetic has more to offer in our view.

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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