It’s no secret that I really like the $1,200 Concept2 indoor rower. That said, there’s no reason that you can’t a great workout by using a $169 home rowing machine either.
Sure, a cheap indoor rower may not last as long and require more maintenance. However, for less than a 10th of the price, how can you really go wrong, right?
Advantages of a Low-Cost Home Rowing Machine:
Exercise Efficiently: I like the Stamina Body Glider because, like other rowers, you can get a full-body workout using 1 piece of equipment. In addition, you can adjust the resistance to increase (or decrease) the intensity of your exercise session.
It’s Portable: On top of that, this lightweight, compact machine lets you train virtually anywhere in your home. In fact, it’s so easy to move that you may decide to switch up your location on a daily basis. Talk about avoiding boring workouts!
Quiet Operation: Due to their simple design, rowing machines tend to run quietly compared to other equipment, such as treadmills. Surprisingly, this inexpensive model is no noisier than its higher-priced competitors. In fact, many customers comment that they can easily watch TV while exercising. (Great motivation too!)
Low Impact Exercise: Lastly, rowing provides a superior low-impact form of exercise. Not many sports can offer this benefit. Not to mention, you can build cardiovascular endurance and strength train simultaneously. You can’t get much more efficient than that. =)
Disadvantages of a Cheap Rower
Not as Durable: First of all, as I mentioned above, cheap equipment tends to have a shorter lifetime. For example, the Body Glider has an aluminum rowing beam vs steel of the more expensive rowers. That said, if you are buying equipment to be used by one person, an you don’t plan on using it daily, this can extend the life of your machine.
Lacks Programming Feature: Second, you can’t program custom workouts like you can with higher-end models. However, you can still do long endurance workouts, HIIT training and sprint sessions all without having this special feature. By the way, the monitor does have multiple functions.
Lower Weight Capacity: Third, this small machine supports less weight (250 lbs) than its heftier counterparts. Therefore, it’s not recommended for extra large or tall people.
Hydraulic Resistance VS Flywheel, Magnetic & Water Rowers:
The Stamina has a hydraulic resistance system, which comes with both pros and cons. This system makes it quieter, more compact and gives it a lower price. However, they don’t glide as smoothly and they typically require more maintenance.
Working Out on the Stamina Body Glider:
Below, check out a visual diagram of the Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine features. I think it’s pretty amazing how they can provide all of those attributes for only $100. I mean, I don’t think you could even build a homemade rowing machine for less than that.
Vary up your workouts. For example, you can perform HIIT (high intensity interval training) sessions, steady-state cardio workouts or even sprints. See this web page for free workout ideas: Rowing Machine Workouts.
In addition, rowing machines are time-efficient. Design your workout routine to fit into the amount of time you have available. Plus, you can even watch TV while you do it.
Unfortunately, most rowing machines cost a lot of money, like $1,000-2000 and more. However, Stamina makes an inexpensive, yet decent and worthwhile “Body Trac Glider” for only about $100.
The fact that you can pay that amount of money for home exercise equipment that can strengthen your entire body all at once is almost a miracle. Seriously. Check out the illustration below and see what I mean:
As you can see, upper body muscles trained include:
- Trapezius (upper back)
- Deltoids (shoulders)
- Pectoralis Major (chest)
- Rhomboids (mid back)
- Triceps
- Wrist Extensors & Flexors
Plus, you simultaneously strengthen lower body muscles:
- Quadriceps
- Glutes
- Hamstrings
- Calves
On top of all that, you get a great core workout – strengthening your abs and lower back. In fact, rowing can greatly help improve posture and reduce back pain due to its core- strengthening benefits.
Don’t underestimate to power of simplicity when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. Uncomplicated, minimal and time-effective workouts can really help you stay on track. And, for $100, you can’t go wrong. =)
Stamina Body Glider Home Rowing Machine Review Video:
Buy it online @ Amazon & Get Free Shipping!
Forget buying the best home rowing machine under $500 – get one for less than $120! Plus, you don’t have to outfit your home gym with a bunch of weights, bands, balls and racks to strengthen every large muscle group in your body. This may be the best value yet.
Concerns About $100 Rowing Machine Quality? I Don’t Blame You
If you have concerns about the quality of Stamina products, let me just say a few things.
- First of all, the company has made affordable, budget-friendly fitness equipment since 1987 (that’s over 30 years).
- Second, they make over 20 different models of rowing machines. That tells me they know rowers.
- Third, they consistent get high satisfaction ratings and reviews from their customers. And last, you can reach their customer support team toll free at 1-800-375-7520.
You have plenty of options besides the Stamina Body Trac Glider, though. Check out the handy home rowing machine comparison chart for more information and to find the best rowing machine for your home.