The H2O Fitness RX-950 ProRower rowing machine is a high quality rower able to meet the demands of any home, or even gym or health club. It is designed from stainless steel and corrosion resistant aluminum to both increase its durability and longevity. With the Hydro-Power Resistance System, it mimics a smooth “on the water” experience that sounds and works just like being outdoors. This water paddle system means that resistance is changed merely by the adjustments of the rower, either going faster or slower, negating the need to physically change any settings in a motion that would otherwise disrupt the routine. This rower made it to one of our top picks of the best rowing machine for this year.

Its footpad is easily adjustable through pivoting, is one solid piece and has a gripping footpad to minimize slips. The panel is large and easy to read and displays all of the important stats including time, distance, 500 meter split, strokes per minute, heart rate and calories. For rowers that need back support, the club series RX-950 comes with an optional lumbar support seat that attached directly to the back of the regular seat.

Features

• Dimensions: 89in x 26in x 30in
• Folds for storage: 70in x 20in x 22in
• Max supported weight: 550 lbs
• Resistance: Variable from 3.6 – 4.5 gals
• Metal frame has lifetime guarantee
• Designed to mimic actual water resistance
• Comes with built in heart rate monitor
• Footpad is easily adjustable
• Perfect indoor machine for low impact, high cardio exercise

The Good

As with most sports, the hardest part is the conditioning and no where is this more true than with rowing. Nothing is more depressing than rowing on a stationary machine instead of actually being out on the water. Thank goodness for the RX-950’s polycarbonate water tank. Inside is a paddle system that, when activated, creates actual water resistance.

This is a huge improvement in feel over other rowing machines that just use fans. This feature also negates the need for any awkward resistance changing levers as you, the rower, change that based on how hard, soft, fast or slow you pull. The water likewise produces much less noise than the air machines, great for days when you want to row with the windows open.

Another enjoyable feature is the footpad. Instead of two stirrups that are incredibly difficult to adjust in both size and position, the footpad is exactly that, one solid pad that is not split down the middle by the track. This keeps your feet from being forced too widely apart that could then cause knee issues because of pressure being placed on the knees at a terrible angle.

Instead, it gives you a wide array of versatility in regards to how your feet are placed, allowing you to achieve the most comfortable and safe position for your body. Since there are no individual stirrups for each foot, the gripping material adds the needed security of keeping the feet locking in position with no fear of loosing ground when pushing off.

Customers also highly recommend the customer service that comes with this machine. Whenever there is an issue, their support team is right there immediately and more than happy to provide replacement parts as well as direction. Assembly has been ranked as extremely easy, and its ability to be stored makes it an ideal machine for the average person living in an apartment.

The Bad

While this rowing machine may offer some incredible features, it does come with its share of issues. The bungee cord that attaches the handles to the spinning mechanism does not last very long. It is insured for two years but often before that either gets shredded or completely snaps. Replacing it is not hard but losing a bungee with no replacement and having to wait for one to ship to your place puts a big deterrent on your ability to maintain a strict exercise schedule.

Like most items that try to harness the power of water, they eventually breakdown and so it is with the water chamber the RX-950 is noted for. It will probably work fine for its entire two year warranty but is only designed to last that long. It will begin leaking water right around the time there is no way to fix the issue without buying an entirely new tank. Though the sound and feel may be nice, it is debatable as to whether or not the eventual leak will be worth the water damage and money needed to replace it.

The Verdict

All in all, the H2O Fitness RX-950 ProRower is a solid machine for the novice and the experienced rower alike. Many prefer the build for its sturdiness and its very natural feel in comparison to actually being out in a boat. Since its resistance is set by you, it may not be the best machine for individuals that need a literal push to take themselves to the next level of work. Other than a great work out, expect to run into water leakage after about two years and a damaged bungee cord at any point in time. No matter the issues, if you want a quiet and realistic rowing machine, the RX-950 is one of the best and most affordable choices on the market.