Physical Vs Mental Fitness
There is but one way to live life to its fullest- being fit. Understanding the benefits of all-round fitness and knowing how active you should make it easier to improve the overall quality of your life. To help you live better, here’s how you can benefit from mental and physical exercise regardless of your age, sex or physical ability.
When talking about fitness, both mental and physical fitness come into play. More often than not, physical fitness gets plenty of attention, and for a good reason. A healthy body can counter conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, and help you maintain confidence as you age.
However, mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness, and should not be neglected in your self-betterment plans.
Mental fitness means having a brain and emotional health in tip-top shape. It may not necessarily mean training to ace an IQ test, but a series of exercise that helps slow down, decompress and boost a flagging memory.
Aerobics (cardio)
Aerobics involves maintaining an increased heart rate for an extended period of time. Types of cardio exercises include running, swimming, biking, rowing, dancing, and jumping rope.
Strength
Also called Resistance Training. It’s a physical activity with the purpose of increasing muscle strength and mass. Examples include weightlifting, dumbbell and bodyweight exercises.
Balance
This is where you activate your abdominal muscles for stability and control of your body. Balance exercises can include yoga, tai chi and stability ball exercises.
Flexibility
Bragging about how much you can bench is no fun if you have trouble tying your shoes. Flexibility saves you from tight hips, hamstrings, hip flexors and makes you as strong as you can be.
Why you need to be fit and importance of physical fitness
Weight control leads you towards fitness
Along with diet, exercise plays an essential role in managing your weight and preventing obesity. To maintain your weight, the calories you are taking must equal the energy you burn. To lose weight, you must utilize more calories than you eat and drink.
Manage your sugar and insulin levels
Exercise can reduce your blood sugar level and help your insulin work effectively. This can lower your risk for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. And if you already have one of those diseases, exercise can help you to maintain it.
Feel Happier through fitness
Exercise has been shown to improve your mood and reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. It produces variations in the parts of the brain that control stress and anxiety. It can also boost brain sensitivity for the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which relieve feelings of depression.
Better Mental Health and fitness
Regular exercise can have an extremely positive influence on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. It also relieves stress, increases memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood. You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to reap the benefits – browse through our site and discover how to reap these benefits.
How to Achieve Mental Fitness
Be positive with yourself and improve your fitness
Affirmation, or positively talking to yourself, involves strengthening neural pathways to bring your self-confidence, well-being, and satisfaction to a higher level. To start, make a list of your good qualities. Remind yourself that you don’t have to be perfect. Set goals for what you want to make better and start small to avoid becoming confused.
Stop Multitasking
Many think that multitasking enables you to get more things done at once, but it creates more problems than it solves. Focusing on one task at a time will improve your concentration and help you to be more productive.
Try Something Different
New practices can also set you on the way to mental fitness. You can fit new approaches into your daily life by trying new foods, new ways to accomplish routine tasks, traveling to new places or trying a new route to the grocery store.
Read More
Reading is great for your brain. Your brain processes every word you read, including this one. Beyond the mechanics, reading helps you visualize the subject matter on the pages before you, and imagine what voices sound like in the written dialogue.
This can also be a great relaxation technique
Top Fitness Tips for Mental and Physical Exercise.
General physical fitness and targeted exercises to improve stability can prevent falls. But so can staying mentally ready to maintain brain health. A sharp mind helps you to think — and stay — on your feet. Join us and learn to strike a balance.
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150 Exercises You Can Do
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Detailed Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine Review
This Concept2 Model D review looks at many different aspects of this quality product. It is not to say it is the best one on the market, though it is by far the most popular and for a good reason.
The indoor rowing exercise equipment market has well over 200 different types of rowing machines models available. The Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine is a standout!
Read on to find out why
Summary Review of Concept2 Model D
It is hard to spot any faults with the USA built Concept2 Model D rowing machine. It is built to take the worst of treatments by individuals, and is virtually indestructible! The rowing action is smooth and comfortable, giving a sensational low impact full-body workout to people with all levels of fitness.
Even though it was initially aimed for elite rowers to get their fitness levels out of the water, it has become well accepted for all people who want to get fit.
The rowing machine is well priced for a home unit, as it equates to one coffee per day for a year or a few months of a gym membership. They do hold their value as can been seen in the second-hand market with typical resale values of 60-80% of the original price.
Overall Rating 4.9 / 5
Performance 5.0 / 5
Comfort 5.0 / 5
Monitor 4.5 / 5
Quality 5.0 / 5
Warranty 5.0 / 5
Value 5.0 / 5
You will not read a bad review on the Concept2 Model D Rowing machine on the web. And for a good reason, there is truly nothing to be disappointed with from the ease of assembly to performance to the warranty.
I hope you enjoy this article as much as I had in reviewing the unit.
Article Sections
click on the link
Concept2 Model D Key Features
- Smooth, comfortable rowing movement & actions
- Helpful rowing exercise monitoring, heart rate, stroke
- Easy to adjust the resistance to individual levels
- Extremely high-quality componentry
- Ergonomic seat and handles
- Adjustable firm foot straps
- Adjustable monitor arm
- Low noise for indoor use
- Quick and easy storage
What is included in the purchase
When you purchase a Concept2 Model D the following is included;
- Concept2 Model D Unit
- Model D User manual
- Performance Monitor Quick Start Guide
- Tools and illustrated assembly instructions
Concept2 Model D Product Description
The Concept2 Model D rowing machine features is an outstanding piece of engineering that provides what many would argue the best “full-body-workout” exercise machine. It uses virtually every group of body muscle in the rowing motion without having the heavy impact or sudden explosive muscle use.
The rowing exercise machine is a compact device that is used low to the ground, 14″, has an ergonomic moulded seat for comfort, a handle that can be easily held, a smooth rail to glide the seat up and down, a low noise factor with an air resistance flywheel and an integrated performance monitor system.
It has been designed and built by those who were exceptional rowers. They have emulated the on-water rowing experience as close as possible to land. Concept2 have engineered the product to be robust and extremely durable.
It is being used by not only the elite Olympic rowers but as well as some the world’s fitness sports. The rowing exercise machine has been designed and engineered to be used by people of any fitness as well as people who need to get rehabilitated., and intensive enough to be used by the world’s fittest athletes.
Pros
- The best overall rowing machine in the market.
- Gym industry standard
- Sensational Rowing actions
- Smooth gliding motion
- The comfortable seat and handle.
- Suitable for all fitness levels
- Value for money
- The monitor integrates to compatible PC software
- Very high quality finish and build
- Extremely robust and durable
- Strong on-line community
- Excellent Warranty and Customer Service
(being the most popular rowing machine in the market it is easy to get spare parts)
Cons
- The monitor can be larger to view especially when you are the furthest point
- It can get noisy, especially in a small closed room. Louder than water resistance machines.
- Some people found the seat a little hard
Concept2 Model D Specification
For the supplier specification download the document
| Resistance Type | Flywheel- Airresistance |
| Overall Length | 96 in /2.44 m |
| Overall Width | 24 in /0.61 m |
| Rail Length | 54 in /137 cm For inseam of 38 in or 96.5 cm |
| Seat Height | 14 in /36 cm |
| Pulley Chain material | Nickel-plated steel chain |
| Monitor | LCD computer |
| Monitor Arm | Pivotal plastic arm that can be adjusted |
| Power | 2 D Cell batteries |
| User Weight | 500 lbs or 227 kg |
| Construction Material | Aluminum front legs, steel rear legs |
| Finish/Color | Powder Coated/ Light Grey or Black |
| Floor Space Recommended | 10 ft x 5ft 3m x 1.5 |
| Rowing Machine Weight | 57kg / 26Kg |
| Storage Space Requirements | 25 in x 33 in x 54 in
63.5 cm x 83.8 cm x 137.2 cm |
| Shipping Dimensions | One box: 15 in x 21.5 in x 56 in (38 cm x 55 cm x 142 cm) |
| Warranty | 5 years on Frame
2 Years on parts and console |
Rowing Exercise Tracking
It can connect via blue tooth heart rate monitors
Exercise Maximus
With 10 adjustments available for resistance, this will cover all levels.
The noise of the unit is sufficient to hear that you know you are putting in an effort
Fitness Tracking
The data from PM5 cam connect to popular fitness apps.
There is Concept2 daily subscription available as well as on-line group
Compact Storage
The Concept2 Model D is compact and easily stored ion vertical position with minimal floor space.
Concept2 Company & Product History
The Concept2 Rowing machine (Model A)was first created in 1981 by Dick and Pete Dreissigacker. The product has evolved over the last 40 years to become the world leader in rowing machines.
The first of the rowing machines started using bicycle parts. The design quickly progressed, and by 1986 Model B arrived which hit the world market by storm. It first spread soon to the global rowing community then to gyms.
Concept2 have now progressed to Models D and E, with Model E seat and monorail seat being higher off the ground.
Benefits of Exercising on a Rowing Machine
I would argue it is one of the best all-body exercises you can do for your mental health as well as your physical. Here are some of my points:
- Unlike most other forms of exercise, there is no impact and nob-weight bearing which one of the major causes of injury.
- It works out the Quadriceps, Gluteals, Hamstrings, Peroneal, Soleus, Semimembranosus, Calves, and feet. The motion of rowing strokes reduces stiffness and increases flexibility.
- The ability to do either or both anaerobic or aerobic fitness training.
- Rowing is a cardiovascular workout
- Ability to do it anytime, unlike swimming and running.
- One of the highest calorie burn rates at 1,200 calories per hour
- The ability to do short multiple training sessions throughout the day significantly increases the metabolism rate helping to tone up and reduce weight.
- Due to the repetitious nature of the exercise, it is possible to get into a meditative state. This is helped by the whooshing noise of the air resistance flywheel and chain going in and out.
Is a Rowing Machine the best fit for your fitness program?
There are many ways of getting or staying fit and healthy. Most of us are time-poor, and we need to carefully allocate our time between many different parts of our lives. Exercise for most of us becomes an afterthought because of the inconvenience and time constraints. For example, going for a swim, it takes time to get to the pool and home, some inefficient time us. If it is an outdoor pool, in the colder months, it is hard to get motivated to get wet.
For running, it’s hard to run in the dark as the risk of injury is significantly higher, that I can undoubtedly concur. If you do run,make sure you wear the right runners. I recently step into a small pot-hole and have been unable to exercise for 8 weeks.
Notwithstanding this, we all need to answer some personal questions to make sure we have made a good investment.
Here are some questions I asked myself;
- Would I use a home rowing machine and how often?
- Where would I use it?
- Would I use it instead of running or swimming? Or as an alternative?
- Would I want all the additional computer add-ons?
- Is noise an issue?
- It looks boring to sit on it countless hours, will I get bored?
- Is it complicated to use?
- Will I get value for money?
- Should I try a cheaper one before buying a more expensive one?
- Should I hire one before buying?
- Is the Concept2 Model D the right one for me?
- Will I be storing it?
- Extremely high resales value, if I didn’t use it enough in 6 months, it would only cost me around $200.
- I would integrate the rowing exercise into my fitness program to enable me to exercise twice a day. The rowing will be a 15-20 minutes routine.
- Reduces the amount of high impact exercise I do now
- It’s a bad weather alternative
You will need to come up with your own conclusion
Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine Review
We asked physios and gym instructors and rowers to help review the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine. We have obtained their ratings, thoughts, assessment and feedback to include it in the analysis and commentary.
This review intends to support your decision making to which is the best rowing exercise machine that is right for yourself.
We have asked everyone to provide an assessment and evaluation on the following areas of the rowing machine:
- Quality
- Material & Texture
- Performance
- Ease of Storage
- Monitor
- Seat comfort
- Handle
- Foot straps
- Noise Level
- Unit Stability
- Balance
- Useability
- Value for money
- Aesthetics
- Useability
Detailed Product Review
There are over 20 attributes of the Concept2 Model D Rowing machine that has been reviewed. Our commentary is included in each of the topics below. Just click the orange toggle on the right of the heading to get read the discussion
Overall Performance: Fun & Dreamy 4.9 / 5
If the equipment operates smoothly, there are no technical issues, no equipment malfunctions, limited setup, it’s inviting to use, it’s a pleasure to use, and you physically get benefits, then it’s worth every cent.
The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is a “real” pleasure to use. It is inviting to use. This was one unanimously agreed by all the reviewer. In our on-line research, the was the typical response. We could not find a negative response.
Even the getting onto the ergonomic seat, placing my feet into the footrests and strapping them in, and sliding forward to grab the handles was a beautiful experience. Doing a workout on the indoor Concept 2 Model D rowing machine was very satisfying. I felt like the whole body was used without any injuries.
The Performance Monitor, PM5, there were more than enough setting and information to keep you amused. The using of the functions of the monitor was very intuitive, and it didn’t take long work out which one I preferred. I found the on-line club provided heaps of useful tips and insight.
The only two real areas of comment are the viewing of the monitor and the seat comfort. But with the accessories, these can be negated.
- With my aging eyes and sweat going down my forward, at times it was difficult to see the screen. With the tablet mount, I was able to secure a tablet to the machine as it helps to provide some entertainment and do some fitness monitoring during the workout
- Some people found the seat a little hard after a while. Concept2 have a seat pad for added cushioning.
Overall, the Concept 2 Model D indoor rowing machine will give you an incredible experience not only from a physical aspect but by also your mind where you will go into a meditational state by the repetitive smooth sliding motion with the whooshing sound of the equipment
Price: Value for Money 5 / 5
- It is only about 5-12 months of gyms fees
- 1 coffee per day for a couple of years.
- The depreciation value is extremely low, with people getting 70-80% of the purchase after 24 months.
- Assuming a life span of at least 10 years, it’s less than$2 per week
Taking everything into consideration, from a financial perspective, it is value for money even if you buy it on credit.
Assembly: Super Easy 5 / 5
Everything was included to assemble the unit. Just to clarify, I hadn’t set up the details in the monitor in the 20 minutes.
I had started using the rowing machine within 20 minutes
Quality: Supberb 5 / 5
Even the basic, the rubber feet are robust and felt quality. The powder coating finish of the product was second-to-none with the look impressive as well as the touch. There were no flaky parts of the powder coating.
As part of our review, our reviewers inspected a number gyms where the Concept2 Model D where it is being used as part of the fitness equipment. The specifics they examined were:
- Flywheel housing and resistance handle-Still worked very smooth, and it didn’t feel cheap or fragile.
- Footrests- all were in great working conditions
- Handles – a little worn in many gyms though still in excellent working order
- Chain Pulley-Very limited wear and tear on the chain, no concerns at all
- Powder coating finish- All reported like it was straight from the packaging.
- Seat Rails– Excellent working order
- Monorail- Obvious usage with the wheel making a slight mark but was still silky smooth
- Monitor- All were in operation.
- Noises- there was no creaking, squeaking, annoying sounds or other unexpected noises.
- Caster Wheels- All were still intact and working well.
The main areas of concern were the wheels on the seat, the chain and foot straps. These all were all in good working condition with virtually no deterioration after thousands of hours of use.
Reviewers reported that even after a few years of extensive use, the equipment looks in excellent condition.
Aesthetic: Very Pleasing 5 / 5
- It looks like it built to high quality,
- The colors are not too bright, overpowering dazzling,
- Not oversized for its use,
- Looks fit for purpose,
- With not many of add-ons.
Then it will be rated very high. And for the above reasons, it is rated 5 out of 5
Rowing Actions - Very Real 5 / 5
They have come very close as it you really cannot have the equipment to do catch and feathering aspect. This rowing equipment has the feel of the leg drive and pulling actions as it would feel rowing in a rowing boat.
The unit has undoubtedly the initial feeling of the catch of the stroke going into the water all the way to the exit where it exits out of the water. The rollers on the seat glided smoothly over the rails in both the pull and recovery motions, giving the same sensation as in the water.
The reviewers gave a perfect score for comfort.
Stability: Safe 5 / 5
The design of the unit legs makes the overall stability, “topplenous” almost impossible. It is more likely you to fall sideways than the unit going onto the side.
All our reviewers found the stability of the unit extremely stable. We had some very large people use the machine they felt safe, though the seat could have been larger.
The Concept 2 Model D unit can handle people unit to 500lbs. I personally would not recommend for people this size to use this equipment and would suggest other forms of exercise and diets before commencing using rowing equipment.
Noise: Unintrusive 5 / 5
Provided you are not in a very small environment you will notice it but will more than likely not bother you. I found it stimulating and motivating as it showed I was placing effort into my exercise routine.
When I used the rowing machine for endurance exercise in a 30 to 40 minutes workout, it helped me get into the meditation ‘zone’,
What I particularly liked, and very important, is that there was no creaking or machine straining noises no matter how hard I pushed. All the reviewers also identified this as a positive aspect of the unit.
When comparing to other resistant type rowing machines, the resistance noise is marginally louder than the others. It certainly didn’t drown out the TV when I was watching a show.
Comfort: Good Feel 5 / 5
The rowing machine is relatively close to the ground, 14” in fact, we found most people who had reasonable agility having no real issue in sitting down on the seat. For those larger people and extremely tall people found it a bit awkward getting down so low. If you are over 6ft 6” it may be better to go for the Model E as it is 20in off the ground.
Most people found the ergonomically designed seat suitable in using it the workout. Some people with less padding in the buttocks found a little hard, but with the 3/8” foam-filled seating, accessory resolved this issue.
We found no one had any issues in reaching the monitor and placing their preferred settings nor with the viewing distance.
The location of the handles and height of the pulling action was good for everyone. The footrests were comfortable in using the equipment. There was also no unpleasant sounds, that is no creaking or straining noises, from the equipment
The general consensus was the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machines was very comfortable with minimal room for improvement.
Monitor: Very Informative 4 / 5
The Performance Monitor 5 is the fifth generation of monitoring devices Concept2 have released. It is packed with added features including ANT+, Bluetooth, and Bluetooth Smart for the use of third-party heart rate monitors, like Polar and Garmin.
It also has a USB port so you can download data to be used in other fitness applications.
For readability, the screen is large enough to easily read and made so much easier with the screen being backlit. A great idea is the adjustable monitor arm so you can adjust to be the right distance for each person using the unit.
The physical monitor feels robust and durable. It has sturdy well-labelled buttons made out of high-quality rubber. Our reviewer found limited ware and tear of the buttons and monitors they inspected in gyms. This was an area of concern as this would be one of the first things to get damaged.
The designers and engineers at Concept2 have thought of everything. They supplemented the power required by the monitor by using the power generated by the flywheel.
In using the monitor, there are five well thought out screens.
- All Data provides all available data.
- Force Curve a graphical representation of mow much force varies between your legs, back, and arms during the rowing workout
- Paceboat A useful program that allows you to work out against your previous workout or a preprogrammed activity. This would be great in video format on a larger screen
- Bar Chart a graphical display of the power general in watts during the workout
- Large Print- For the visually impaired larger font
All our reviewer’s genuinely liked the Paceboat function of the PM5. They love it as it provided a guideline on how to be able to do the best workout possible. Either with the preprogrammed training or one against yourself on a previously recorded generated workout.
There are Concept2 indoor rowing competitions that use the monitors to work out winners. The online community also likes participants to add data to see how everyone is going.
I would like a larger color screen, 14” or 16”, as the monitor to allow easier viewing during a workout. As well, I would be cool to have video’s being displayed during the workouts to help you keep focused in the longer sessions.
I would like to have the monitor to have audio that can be connected with BlueTooth so you can have earbuds to hear how you are tracking rather than just purely visual.
Overall, the PM5 is an exceptional monitor for tracking progress during the workout and extracting data to place in fitness apps
Handle and Grips: 5 / 5
The size of the mould rubber handles allow for easy and comfortable grip from all hand sizes. The rubber grips can also soak up some sweat when doing a workout.
For anyone who has ‘soft’ hands, there is high probably if you don’t wear gloves you will get blisters. The rubber grips on the handle is a bit grippy, which can lead to blisters. It is recommended that if you have soft hands, use rowing gloves to start. If you do short spells, eventually your hands will harden up a bit. Just be aware. No one likes blisters.
Footrests - Strapping: Suits All 5 / 5
| One of the most critical parts of the rowing machine is to have reliable, comfortable footrests. When on the rowing machines, your legs, knees, ankles and heels are a big part. In the compressed position, your knees are close to your chest, and ankles lose to your buttocks. Your ankles are continuously rotating. |
Another aspect of the footrests is the stapping as you don’t want for it to loosen or unlock when going into the contract position.
Another essential part of the footrest/pedal. It is footrest has been ergonomically designed with a contour for foot comfort. The footrests can of the pedals is the ability to have size 6 fit and be held comfortable as well as size 20. It can be adjusted to suit individuals feet
We found the footrests and strapping comfortable for either shoes or barefoot. No one had their feet become loose when they did an intensive workout.
Awesome work Concept2.
Chain: Highest Quality 5 / 5
It requires little maintenance, with the occasional light lubricate rub across the chain.
We have not come across anyone or gym who has issues with the chain breaking or seizing.
Seat Wheels Glide: Robust 5 / 5
It indeed passed with flying colours.
Seat: Well designed 5 / 5
They tried the foam-filled badding that you can purchase from Concept2 found it made a positive difference. We noticed some people in gyms using a small towel. Be careful with the towel as it may get caught under the wheels. The seat on the Model D is contoured and padded, making it comfortable for most users.
Damper or Resistance Control: Sufficient 5 / 5
Olympic rowers use the air rowers to training as it more closely simulates actual rowing on water.
The air rower is my preference as well as during a workout. I personally like to break into anaerobic periods (going very hard for a couple of minutes) and then slow down to aerobic periods. This is possible due to the ‘variable’ resistance of air rowers. I also like the smooth actions of the air rowers. Many cross-fit gyms like to use air rowers as they use it as part of the HIIT program for this particular reason.
On the flywheel covering, there is a sliding cover that adjusts the airflow around the flywheel. It is referred, to as the Damper control. There are 10 adjustment spots, air dampening, for you to work out which spot feels best for you most.
By adjusting the airflow, it simulates the ease or level of difficulty of the stroke-like the difference is rowing a heavy, slow wooden scull to a carbon fibre lightweight scull.
Overall, the resistance control is more than adequate for all people using the machine.
Storage: Small Footprint 5 / 5
| Not all of us a dedicated room for fitness equipment, if you are one of them, read on. The Concept2 Model D can be easily stored in the corner of any room. The footprint of the unit is relatively small, 25.0″ x 33.0″ to be precise and stands 54.0″ tall. If it’s stored in a common area of the home, just throw a rug over the top to disguise it a bit.
With no real surprise, the unit is very easy to move as it is on caster wheels and it doesn’t weight too much as 60 lbs. There is no need for any tools to fold the unit and takes less than 1 minute to put away. Personally, I use the rowing equipment in my garage where I store it upright position against the wall. |
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Small-Big People Fitting: For All 5 / 5
Should you be taller than 6ft 8in, or have legs longer than 38” (inside measurement), you can always chat to Concept2 to ask for an extended monorail which they will be more than complaint to supply at a slightly higher cost.
Concept2 Model D Accessories: 5 / 5
The accessories include the:
- “Slide” – It provides the added movement of a rowing boat during the pul pack motion. This is a cool feature to have for those who desire to have the on-water experience
- Cover for the rowing machine – Great to have if you store it in a dusty exposed environment helps to keep the dust off the chain and monorail.
- Tablet mount – an excellent accessory to proved a larger screen to keep you entertained.
- Seat Pad – A die-cast 3/8” foam with an adhesive – Smart idea
- Heart Rate Monitor – connects to either a Polar or Garmin Chest Heart Rate monitors.
- Android Connection Kit/Smartphone Cradle– The Android Connection Kit is cradle and wire to connect between the monitor and android, whereas the Smartphone Cradle is only the cradle without the wires
Warranty: Top Marks, Confidence 5 / 5
Yes, there are not many moving parts that can go wrong, though, under heavy, consistent usage parts and the frame can quickly disintegrate. The moving parts the chain, seat, the flywheel cover are all placed under severe strain and has the opportunity for failure. I am sure you know what I am talking about.
With a little maintenance and care of the product, there is no reason why the product can last 10-plus years. The first one I purchased was close to 15 years, and I had no issues over this time.
Notwithstanding this, from all accounts and my limited exposures, the Customer Service is sensational.
Ease of Maintenance Simple 5 / 5
The monorail will need to be wiped down, before every use to remove dust and grit off to allow the wheels to run smoothly over the monorail.
Depending on the environment, the filter around the flywheel will need to cleaned, to remove dust build-up on the wire mesh filter. This is not too difficult and takes around 20 minutes.
Concept2 has two excellent videos on how to maintain. Suggest you watch it
Can the Concept 2 Model be Improved?
One area that I believe can be improved is the monitor. There are many additional features can be added in the make the experience a little better. In particular, I would like to see a larger screen that has WiFi connectivity that would allow you to join into group on-line fitness classes.
Did you know?
Ergometer -“erg” for short, derived from the Greek words ergon and metron, is an instrument or device that measures a workout.
Many rowers refer to the Concept2 Indoor rower as the “Erg”
What about the Concept2 Model D alternatives
Indoor exercise equipment has exploded over the last 10 years, with more companies making new equipment. I have written a review on some of the more popular rowing machines and provide ratings.
There are a few alternative air resistant, including BodyWorx and IronEdge Xebex. They are both a little more expensive than the Concept2 Model D rowing machine.
Even discounting the cost aspect, the Concept2 Model D has the customer service support that is second to none. There will never be any issues with spare parts or being easily and quickly reselling the unit as it is so well recognized and respected.
In comparing the Concept2 Model unit an air resistance rowing machine to a high-quality water rower, like the Nordic Track RW Rower, there is a couple of key differences.
Firstly it is significantly more expensive, up to 70% more. Thie Nordic is a very good looking unit, at least I think so, is a little quieter. It does have a very different feel while using in the unit, neither better or worse, just different. As well it provides, as good, in a workout. It will become a ‘preference’ choice.
Concept2 Online Community
The people at Concept2 have a real understanding of how people think and feel about exercise. They understand the people like to have support from other Concept2 users.
Concept2 have built an online Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and e-mail community. They have many thousands of members that contribute to how to get the most out of the training machine. Concept 2 are significant contributors to the group by running competitions, having giveaways, prizes, as well as doing promotions.
This is unique and well-received by all.
Is an indoor rowing machine for everyone?
The indoor rowing machine is one of the first exercise equipment a household should have. Simply but it one of the best full-body workout equipment without the impact.
It was my first exercise equipment I had. I found it a worthwhile investment and good time management activity.
Consumer Reviews
After trawling on the web for comments about the Concept2 Model D indoor rowing machine, it was near impossible to find anything negative about this exercise equipment.
Amazon has over 5,000 ratings with an average of 5 stars. This is a testament to the quality and popularity of this product.
In reading through all the reviews, it was evident that there was a sensational after-sales service, not only for maintenance support but as well as growing and educating the on-line community.
My personal experience in obtaining both e-mail and phone support has been outstanding and prompt.
Read for some of the glowing reviews and responses.
Final Say
The Concept 2 Model D, is one of the very best indoor rowing machines on the market. This ergometer is evident by the virtual domination of rowing machines in gyms around the globe. Virtually all aspects of the magnificently engineered product has “quality” written over it.
From the thousands of on-line reviews, there was less than 0.1% of negatives reviews to this indoor rowing machine. What a great testament!
This Erg, as commonly known around the rowing fraternity, is the complete package. It is used by rowers who are training for the Olympics to those who are undertaking physical rehabilitation. It suits to all levels. It does feel different to water and magnetic types though I cannot see that being an issue at all.
The Concept2 Model D has a nice feel about the rowing actions is robust enough for the most vigorous workout. The lifespan of the unit will last for over a decade.
The unit can take lots knocking around without showing much damage or wear and tear, to which I can personally testify. I had mine in the garage for years without missing a day.
The ergonomics of the complete unit is sensational. The rowing motions closely simulates to that of a rowing boat. Very importantly, it allows for a good workout.
I believe it is an intelligent investment in your health and fitness no matter if you are starting out or a seasoned rowing enthusiast. It will help you start losing weight, getting and maintaining your fitness. This indoor rower you can do HIIT anaerobic, aerobic, low impact, whole-of-body fitness training sessions that very few other exercises equipment can accomplish.
It is a complete product for fitness. Though you may want to include in you fitness pack a good fitness monitor that allows you monitor your activity throughout the day. There are many on the market. Here is an article comparing a range of fitness monitors.
Should you decide it wasn’t for you, the resale value is very high.
Should you decide to purchase the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine, you absolutely not regret it. For this is the reason, we have given it an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5.
If you are still unsure read the rowing machine comparison review.
Did you know? The average person sweats between 0.8 litre (28 oz) to 1.4 litres (43oz) per hour of exercise
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