Sunny Dual Air & Magnetic Rowing Machine Review
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We've lost count on just how many rowers Sunny Health & Fitness have on the market... it was around 28 when we stopped counting. Most are at the budget end of the price-range, and most offer excellent value for money. But we have to say up front, the Dual Air & Magnetic (model name SF-RW5940) is a bit of a disappointment in our view. This is mainly due to the resistance being perhaps too easy for the stronger rower.
It may be a problem with some models but not others, as some of the users we've spoken to loved it and didn't feel resistance was too easy, whereas others stated they couldn't work up a sweat. It has some good features, but for many the resistance issue will be a deal-breaker. Don't get us wrong. On balance it's a pretty good machine for the price of under $500, it's just that there are better options available from both Sunny and other brands - see 'Also Worth a Look' below. But let's focus on the rest of the rower and work our way through. Assembly really is straightforward. With only 5 steps, it's one of the simplest rowing machines we've ever put together. In fact, most will manage this part in 15 minutes.
The seat is a good height, 17" from the floor, which is good news for you knees if you struggle to get down low. Some budget models have the seat at only 8" off the ground, so this is a big plus. The seat is also comfortable and keeps your butt nicely supported when sliding up and down the long beam. The length of the beam (46") makes it suitable for users of up to 6' 6" who'll get a full stroke and better workout. The footrests are a good width, and the straps will keep your feet snug and secure. The handle is a good thickness and will suit most hands, unless yours are like shovels :0) So onto the resistance issue. First of all, this is dual resistance system using magnets and an air fan. Because of the fan, it can be a little noisy. This isn't a problem if you have a home gym, or it's set up in your garage or a room away from others. But if you share accommodation, or the walls a thin, then it may be something to consider. There are 16 levels of resistance in total which can be selected using the control knob in the central console. The air fan gives the rower the feel of rowing on the water, that is, the harder you pull, the more resistance you'll feel. The magnetic mechanism is meant to add that little extra resistance at higher levels to work your muscles. But as mentioned right at the start, some of our users found the resistance too little for a good workout. Note, this is a folding model and can be stored within a reasonably small footprint when not is use.
Summary:
Some of our reviewers loved this rower. They liked it's sleek looks, the features it comes with, such as the online trainer videos and the workout programs, and found it good value for money. Whereas others felt the light resistance ruined what was otherwise could have been a great machine. This is a shame because everything else about the SF-RW5940 makes it well worth considering. 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-RW5940:
6.5/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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QUICK REFERENCE
Click images to enlarge
Sunny SF-RW5940 Air/Mag
Standard Sunny seat - acceptable
Wide footrests
Pretty good LCD monitor with device holder
Folding model
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Also worth a look:
If it's a magnetic rowing machine you're looking for, the Schwinn Crewmaster is a better option in our view. If it doesn't need to be either air of magnetic, the Sunny Obsidian is a great water-resistant machine for around the same price.
If it's a magnetic rowing machine you're looking for, the Schwinn Crewmaster is a better option in our view. If it doesn't need to be either air of magnetic, the Sunny Obsidian is a great water-resistant machine for around the same price.
Other user comments
"Everything about this machine looked good. I liked the sleek lines, the long rail, and the price seemed reasonable. However, I don't find the resistance is high enough to give me a worthwhile workout. My wife uses it and finds it just fine, but I stick to the bike and weights." Roger B.
Do you have one of these? We'd be interested in your comments
Do you have one of these? We'd be interested in your comments
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