I’m glad I went with C2 for my first rower. A nice machine like that just makes you want to regularly use it. I’ve had cheap workout gear in the past and it was often an exercise in frustration. Not the kind of equipment you’re very proud of, compelling you to go intense with it.
I got my 500b few weeks back and a happy user for beginners rower. Reason bought this is due to the size and the connectivity, and it’s self powered! The only complain is the extension from the bar is shorter then c2. But it is what it is for the smaller footprint!
I got the 120 at the beginning of lockdown because it was available and cheap. I'm short so it's been great and yes I row along to you most days. Your also right only down side is the monitor. But it's compact and quite.
I really wanted to have a Concept 2. BUT, the math makes it impossible where I live. A Concept2 costs 5.5 times more here than in US. So I HAD to settle with a Domyos 120. It's silent, it works, I am using for the last three months, 2- 3 times weekly. I use a mobile App with it (Start Rowing) with a good training program and do not rely much on its display, only for distance measuring. The only thing that bothers me is that the catch is kind of low like he said and I have a belly so it worries me about back problems. Due to the pandemic I have no instructor and gyms are closed. It was a very high investment so I must adjust somehow to it, am looking for advice. Think like if it was in US and the Domyos 120 would "cost" $3000 and the Concept2 $8000. So you know.
Heya its been 2 years since this comment. Im in the same boat as you, how have your experience with rowing for weight loss been? Did the domyos end up giving you any any back problems
Hi from Italy, really cool vid and i liked every little tip you give on rowing! for example how you hint that even with the bungee one, we could strap/loop some gym elastic band maybe with its own handles too and have a way at burning calories as well. I'm surprised from most comments how the noise factor is underrated. I've had a go at the Domyos ones just like you do here, and the 500 seemed to me ok to offer some decent resistance, but let's all keep in mind it's around 400 euros, and a Concept 2 is about 1200€ ain't it. And then the noise. I gotta say I find it important and the water one is great. Very relaxing, but also motivating. Both the others may be irritating/stressful, but the magnetic ones are still quite silent, at least it's a good point on them. And as soon as I hear the air ones like the C2, I feel kinda thirsty and that the room is getting a very dry environment, to be swearing at it then lol. Personal, of course. Just saying, every rower makes sense on its own, probably. And, it might not have the most precise counter in the world, I can do without really, I'll have burnt say 250 calories instead of 300, at an amateur level it's ok to keep fit, along with other sports. It is often argued that most gym machines are inherently more or less accurate in the calories bill anyway, ex. spin bikes vs ellipticals vs rowers. Whatev... PS. I've seen a spring-activated rower, in the Uk it's called BR3010, in Europe "Stringmaster" by Capital Sports. I'm finding very few reviews here on the net. Some look ok, from sportive people, and some decent value for money, maybe? It would be great to know your opinion about it! Sorry for the long comment. Total respect! 😎✌
In the UK the Domyos 120 has came back into stock, and as a relative beginner who is a little out of shape, I have gone ahead and ordered. I wanted something that is of decent quality and will improve my fitness, my partner wanted something that didn’t take up the whole house and cost a relatively small fortune. I think this is a good compromise. I think it will do me and my partner for now, and if I ever get fit enough, or seriously into it, will consider upgrading to an air tower in the future. Good, helpful, comparison, thank you!
@@mmaml123 it’s been good for us, can get a pretty decent resistance and work out and it’s easy enough to fold up. The phone holder is a nice touch. Only bad points for me are that the accuracy of the readings seem way out so I only use it to count SPM and you can’t get fully forward in the catch, so don’t really achieve a full stroke. If I ever have the space, and money, I’d still love a concept 2.
Yes, they started doing that sometime this year. The phone holder is now included for free with all new Concept 2 Model D's and E's. Not sure about their equipment.
Quarantine equipment help! Great video - I was thinking of getting the Decathlon 100 as a cheap way to get some cardio while I'm stuck here in my 21-day hotel quarantine in Hong Kong, but having seen it in action I don't think it's worth bothering with. I'll find some other way to get some cardio in 😂
I've bought Endurance R300 by Body Solid. My first rower. Fits me, fits my budget, which is also very important. It could use better display, but since I do it for me and don't need minute details - it is more than sufficient. Good quality, well made, sturdy - all I need.
Lots of crappy comments by uninformed people who most probably have never tried one of those magnetic rowers. I've been rowing on a Domyos 500 for a year now and must say that this machine is worth every penny, and so far it's proven to be extremely reliable and sturdy. Build and materials are overall on par with much pricier machines, seating is comfortable, wireless connectivity with training apps (such as Kinomap) as well as with all kinds of chest straps works just fine, all the main performance parameters are monitored. So it's safe to say that it offers more than adequate performance for most non-professional users interested in keeping fit at a sensible pricetag.
Hey Davide, Really happy i stumbled upon your comment. After waiting for 2 months the 500 is back in stock ( with 2 weeks delivery). So i pulled the trigger. Reading these comments got me a bit disappointed, but hey now i've stumbled upon a long time 500 owner. I think that the 500 is unbeatable for the pricetag, and there's no other vendor that can provide you: Good connectivity, decent rowing experience, compact design and spare parts! ( decathlon is full of them). What i did not know was how this rowing machine would fare after a while. I am planning to do exercise alongside with my wife :3-4 days/week. On the website, they recommend that it should be used max 4 times a week, but in our case it will be used 8 times/week. Do you think that the limitation is from health/technical standpoint ? thanks!
@@radusebastianionita803 Hi Radu, glad to read your comment. My average use is 2/3 times a week, mainly HIIT sessions of about 45 minutes, but I'm pretty sure it can stand more frequent workouts without problems. However, when purchasing the machine I opted for an inexpensive (39,99 euros/48 usd) additional warranty extending the manufacturer's technical assistance in case of defects/mulfunctions for further 3 years, for longer-term peace of mind. Hope you'll enjoy it as much as I have.
@@davidedegiorgi9986 Hey, just a quick one. My rower just shipped, i've mounted it and i must say i am pretty happy with it. Now, what bothers me is that when you fold the rower, the black paint will get scratched in an arc form. I think i might have overtightened the screw (longest one in the package). Do you have the same scenario ? Thx!
@@radusebastianionita803 Hi Radu, I haven't experienced this kind of issue, but it's very likely that you overtightened the screw, I turned the screw slightly loose and it didn't cause any scratch (overall stability and safety while using the machine are not undermined by doing so).
@@davidedegiorgi9986 again for other confused buyers. This machine will kill you, if you are am entry rower such as I am. Really happy with the purchase. Thx Davide for reassuring me to proceed with the purchase. For this amount of € you will never find anything this sturdy, good looking and connected.
Oh! You were (sort of) nearby! (I’m living in Brussels, Belgium). I’ve bought some small stuff from decathlon. They have some nice and basic clothes for sports.
Hi, I could really use the opinion from someone who actually owns Domyos 500 and use it for a period of time. I'm thinking about buying one for home use and I really don't want to make mistake.
Bought one Jan 2020. Used it twice a week for the first month or so. Not knowing what I was doing it seemed fine but I was thrashing it. I couldn't do more than 5 mins and I decided it wasn't for me because I got nothing out of it. After New year this year a friend said I should follow RUclips rowing videos, which I did and found how bad the Domyos 500 is. In a row of 10 minutes at a steady 20 spm the Domyos told me I had done 57 strokes? Although I was pressing hard the best split was 8.5 at the gym I normally split at 2.5-2.8, calories show 12? Basically the display (software) is rubbish and can't be trusted. I now have a Concept 2 on order and I can't wait. Not having the right metric really spoils the whole effort. I do use it 5 times a week following RUclips videos but all I can do is follow the instructers stroke rate.
Hi Shane, I'm really glad that you have tested Domyos equipment. I have just bought the Domyos 120 rower you tested and I am quite disappointed that I haven't found a community of users for this machine. I am a beginner and I cannot give an deep review on the machine, but it has been of great use in these pandemic times. There are somethings I dislike on this machine e though. The display will only show distance with more than one decimal point, which means I am only able to measure my progress each 100m and it feel frustrating as it too much of distance for a begginer. I was a little suspicious about the monitor precision, since my all out efforts give something of 1km in 10 minute's and though I may not be a super athlete, far form it actually, I thought I could do way better. It gets even weirder since the catch drill you tought would show 100m for each 20 "strokes". I think this should mean my 1k time should be better, doesn't it? Well, this been said the machine has allowed me to keep some physical activity, and mental health. Thank you for your work. I always watch your videos for guidance
I have the 500, my brother the 120. They have a dumb algorithm: 5m per stroke regardless of stroke length or speed or even resistance. So don’t compare speed or power with a concept2. Good enough for a good sweat, not for people who would want to improve their rowing technique or track their fitness in any detail.
@@cedricbrouste3112 thank your for your comment. This 5m per stroke makes total sense as far as my experience goes and I really feel like a fool for having taken this machine's monitor seriouslly. I wonder if we couldn't have our money back because of this. Is the calorie measure as stupid as this distance measure? Do you know anything about it?
@@cedricbrouste3112 hi Cedric, you must have tried 120 also, can you please write a comparison of both models? I am sure that it will be very helpful for many people like me who are trying to decide which model to get. I really wonder the noise levels and the feeling after a workout. Are they loud, which one is louder, is it just cardio or an intense workout? I would be much grateful if you give me an advice 🙏
@@oguztoptas8717 I did not try it, bro lives several hours away and 2020 was not a good time to go visit (we both purchased at the beginning of the pandemic). But from our discussions, I can tell that the main difference is that the 500 has a smarter console that can shift the resistance so apps like kinomap can change the resistance on the fly. On 120 you would have to change the resistance manually during the exercise. So 500 is a much better option if you plan to use such apps, I don't regret the extra cash because of that. I know that 120 has a lighter magnetic wheel which in theory means that the movement is less fluid but I could not experience the difference so I don't know how much of a problem that is vs 500.
@@cedricbrouste3112 thank you for fast response and all the detailed information you have given, I got one last question that troubles my mind. Some people wrote that the stroke is felt very light at the beginning of the movement which makes it less difficult for legs, do you agree with that?
Thank you for the quick review. I'm waiting for my Domyos 500 to be delivered this coming weekend. Unfortunately there aren't any Concept 2 rowers available locally and shipping would make it 2.5 times as expensive as the Domyos 500 so I opted for that instead inspite of the few negative points about it. Hoping it will be a good machine to complement my BJJ workouts 3 times a week.
Hi, I see it's been a year since you wrote this comment. I'm trying to find a good rowing machine with a magnetic system. I find the Concept 2 extremely noisy. I thought about the Domyos 500B but I went to try it out in a shop and it was totally broken, screen, seat and other things. It gave me a bad impression. I want to ask you, after a year can you advise the Domyos 500B? I would like to train at least 4 times a week. Thank you very much. Regards
@@300rmpHi there. My Domyos is still in good working condition and is reliable. Would I recommend it though? I'm not so sure for the following reasons: 1. The spacing of the foot rests is too far apart and they're not adjustable. It makes my knees turn inwards which is uncomfortable. 2. There is a slack on every pull/drive before the strap catches no matter how smooth I pull it. This throws off my rowing rhythm. 3. Even though I'm not that tall (5'5" or 165 cm), it feels like on the return/catch phase I can go further with my arms but I'm stopped by the placement of the screen and where the strap attaches to the machine is just too far forward. I've tried a Concept 2 rower at a gym I visited and I didn't face any of these issues. Other than the louder sound of the machine, it's a much better rowing experience and can see why people highly recommend them. I'm considering getting one of those instead. I hope the above helps, and if the sound of the Concept 2 is a show stopper, at least you can pay attention to those issues that I mentioned when shopping for another rowing machine.
With the water rower i fill mine to the max fill indicator line and the resistance on the drive depends on what I put into it with my legs. When I really put give it some power, the resistance gets quite ridiculous lol Also, totally agree though regarding the issue trying to get into a good "catch" position due to the height of the seat and feet. Got mine for 500 brand new though so can't complain too much
The wider feet on the 500 is interesting. Being 6’4 and having massive calves, they actually rub on the rail of the C2. Really my only complaint with the concept!
I use that water rower (Pure Design VR2) and agree the foot height is an issue. Though I’ve found you can get a pretty good workout on it and go pretty hard. (And welcome to France!)
Have you ever tried the Stamina X AMRAP? At the beginning of the pandemic, I found your videos and tried grabbing a Concept2, but there was a huge backorder. I did my research and chose the Stamina X AMRAP and couldn't be happier. From what I can tell, it's the closest thing you can get to a Concept2, both aesthetically and functionally. For $499, I couldn't beat the price! Just a thought if you ever spot one around to maybe review it.
Magnetic resistance has a drawback: sooner or later everyone will outmuscle it. While water or air resistance is almost limitless in the amount of resistance; the stronger you push ("push, don't pull"), the greater the resistance is, magnetic resistance is much less dependent on the input force. At some point every more serious rower will feel, that the machine is "weak". I had a magnetic rower (however it was not a Domyos, but still the same "Chinese" quality and construction), I started my rowing adventure on it, but I quite quickly, in 2 months, outmuscled it and my force just destroyed the internal parts of the machine as I tried to stroke harder. Fixing it was futile, since I would destroy it again. I bought the C2 model D, that is with me until today and is virtually indestructible. Magnetic resistance machines can give appropriate range of resistance and a decent durability, but at a cost that is much greater than the C2 or Waterrower. Next thought: If a machine does not allow for a full, correct rowing stroke, it cannot be considered as a tool for training. Maybe the absolute beginner or a child can get some workout on such a machine, but rather sooner than later the purchase a decent rowing machine will be necessary. Plus, in training the performance monitor is an absolute necessity. These magnetic cheap machines do not have it. OK, they can display distance or calories, but they do not measure the input power (as a PM on C2 does), but merely they just count strokes and display some mean value of calories per stroke times number of strokes or, say 10 m/stroke times number of strokes. So they are not performance monitors, they are just toys mimicking the real PM. I would warn before buying the magnetic rower in the several hundreds dollar range. It will almost surely be the waste of money. Much better solution - to buy a ticket to a gym, even to hire some coach that will teach us, and try if we like rowing for a month or two on C2 or Waterrower. And we can decide if we should buy one for home use without risk, that it will become an expensive clothes' hanger at home.
You share here a very interesting klowledge/experience! Thanks so much. I've rowed for 6 years with a group specialised in indoor rowing. The C2 is the obvious choice. I tryed a very good water rowing machines but didn't like the feel of the resistance provided by the water tank. The magnetic machines suffers a lack of transportability. It is so good to be able to take your C2 outside in the sun and breathe fresh air. Or even bring it close to a lake! The pandemic brought me to buy my own C2 since the gyms had to close. I love it.
Wow...Nicely put, Greaaaat and very valid points. Thank you sooo much. It is helping me in taking informed decisions. Really appreciate your good nature to HELP people in making decision about buying a rower like me
The bungee rower actually comes with a tighter bungee too... Just so you know... I have one , its cheapest option available for weight loss buyers looking for cheap and compact rower... It comes with a light pull and a tight pull bungee ...
the problem i have with cheaper rowers is they are too light , so the more you pull the bar, it lifts. have to say the concept 2 doesnt have that issue.
C2 still wins! No surprise here. But do you know if Concept 2 plan to compete with those newcomers in terms of "entertaining colored screen" like Ergatta or Hydrow ? I'd be so happy to use my tablet synced to my PM5 dynamized by some more appealing and dynamic app than the ErgData. I'm sold to C2! But I'd want the guys beat the newcomers selling fresh ideas on so-so rowing machines. What do you think?
Bienvenue en France Shane ! Hum must be an old video cause people don't wearing any Masks. Hope you enjoyed beers from Belgium and North part of France....
I have a WaterRower with S4 and Bluetooth 1,045$ + $60 with an Ergatta hooked up $550. Also a laptop/tablet holder underneath ($150) that I use to play Hydrow and/or iFit, CityRow, and other instructor led courses. So pretty much I said f*ck you to the industry and cheated everybody by spending less and getting getting the best of all 3 worlds and took the best parts from each 😎
Never buy the Xterra 220 magnetic is absolute garbage,your feet slip out all the time living a bad pain in your legs,my next purchase is the Concept 2,learned my lesson the hard way.
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I’m glad I went with C2 for my first rower. A nice machine like that just makes you want to regularly use it. I’ve had cheap workout gear in the past and it was often an exercise in frustration. Not the kind of equipment you’re very proud of, compelling you to go intense with it.
I got my 500b few weeks back and a happy user for beginners rower. Reason bought this is due to the size and the connectivity, and it’s self powered! The only complain is the extension from the bar is shorter then c2. But it is what it is for the smaller footprint!
I got the 120 at the beginning of lockdown because it was available and cheap. I'm short so it's been great and yes I row along to you most days. Your also right only down side is the monitor. But it's compact and quite.
This was such a fun video! I enjoyed getting to see you work your way up through the various rowing machines.
I really wanted to have a Concept 2. BUT, the math makes it impossible where I live. A Concept2 costs 5.5 times more here than in US. So I HAD to settle with a Domyos 120. It's silent, it works, I am using for the last three months, 2- 3 times weekly. I use a mobile App with it (Start Rowing) with a good training program and do not rely much on its display, only for distance measuring. The only thing that bothers me is that the catch is kind of low like he said and I have a belly so it worries me about back problems. Due to the pandemic I have no instructor and gyms are closed. It was a very high investment so I must adjust somehow to it, am looking for advice. Think like if it was in US and the Domyos 120 would "cost" $3000 and the Concept2 $8000. So you know.
Heya its been 2 years since this comment. Im in the same boat as you, how have your experience with rowing for weight loss been? Did the domyos end up giving you any any back problems
Hi from Italy, really cool vid and i liked every little tip you give on rowing! for example how you hint that even with the bungee one, we could strap/loop some gym elastic band maybe with its own handles too and have a way at burning calories as well. I'm surprised from most comments how the noise factor is underrated. I've had a go at the Domyos ones just like you do here, and the 500 seemed to me ok to offer some decent resistance, but let's all keep in mind it's around 400 euros, and a Concept 2 is about 1200€ ain't it. And then the noise. I gotta say I find it important and the water one is great. Very relaxing, but also motivating. Both the others may be irritating/stressful, but the magnetic ones are still quite silent, at least it's a good point on them. And as soon as I hear the air ones like the C2, I feel kinda thirsty and that the room is getting a very dry environment, to be swearing at it then lol. Personal, of course. Just saying, every rower makes sense on its own, probably. And, it might not have the most precise counter in the world, I can do without really, I'll have burnt say 250 calories instead of 300, at an amateur level it's ok to keep fit, along with other sports. It is often argued that most gym machines are inherently more or less accurate in the calories bill anyway, ex. spin bikes vs ellipticals vs rowers. Whatev... PS. I've seen a spring-activated rower, in the Uk it's called BR3010, in Europe "Stringmaster" by Capital Sports. I'm finding very few reviews here on the net. Some look ok, from sportive people, and some decent value for money, maybe? It would be great to know your opinion about it! Sorry for the long comment. Total respect! 😎✌
In the UK the Domyos 120 has came back into stock, and as a relative beginner who is a little out of shape, I have gone ahead and ordered. I wanted something that is of decent quality and will improve my fitness, my partner wanted something that didn’t take up the whole house and cost a relatively small fortune. I think this is a good compromise.
I think it will do me and my partner for now, and if I ever get fit enough, or seriously into it, will consider upgrading to an air tower in the future.
Good, helpful, comparison, thank you!
How did you like the 120 i just ordered it?
@@mmaml123 it’s been good for us, can get a pretty decent resistance and work out and it’s easy enough to fold up. The phone holder is a nice touch.
Only bad points for me are that the accuracy of the readings seem way out so I only use it to count SPM and you can’t get fully forward in the catch, so don’t really achieve a full stroke.
If I ever have the space, and money, I’d still love a concept 2.
@@colinturnbull3655 thanks for reply getting it tomorrow! One day we shall have concept 2!! Good luck!
I just received my Concept2 PM5, and it came with a phone holder. It's a little stiff, but it works.
Yes, they started doing that sometime this year. The phone holder is now included for free with all new Concept 2 Model D's and E's. Not sure about their equipment.
Quarantine equipment help! Great video - I was thinking of getting the Decathlon 100 as a cheap way to get some cardio while I'm stuck here in my 21-day hotel quarantine in Hong Kong, but having seen it in action I don't think it's worth bothering with. I'll find some other way to get some cardio in 😂
This is fascinating. Many thanks. More comments to follow when I've watched the video a couple of times.
Glad you enjoyed it Hope it helps you make some decisions.
I've bought Endurance R300 by Body Solid. My first rower. Fits me, fits my budget, which is also very important. It could use better display, but since I do it for me and don't need minute details - it is more than sufficient. Good quality, well made, sturdy - all I need.
09:45 I agree, there's nothing more robust than a Concept 2. And I would add, nothing in the gym is as elegant as the Concept 2.
2 words. Skillrow Technogym.
Lots of crappy comments by uninformed people who most probably have never tried one of those magnetic rowers. I've been rowing on a Domyos 500 for a year now and must say that this machine is worth every penny, and so far it's proven to be extremely reliable and sturdy. Build and materials are overall on par with much pricier machines, seating is comfortable, wireless connectivity with training apps (such as Kinomap) as well as with all kinds of chest straps works just fine, all the main performance parameters are monitored. So it's safe to say that it offers more than adequate performance for most non-professional users interested in keeping fit at a sensible pricetag.
Hey Davide, Really happy i stumbled upon your comment. After waiting for 2 months the 500 is back in stock ( with 2 weeks delivery). So i pulled the trigger. Reading these comments got me a bit disappointed, but hey now i've stumbled upon a long time 500 owner. I think that the 500 is unbeatable for the pricetag, and there's no other vendor that can provide you: Good connectivity, decent rowing experience, compact design and spare parts! ( decathlon is full of them). What i did not know was how this rowing machine would fare after a while. I am planning to do exercise alongside with my wife :3-4 days/week. On the website, they recommend that it should be used max 4 times a week, but in our case it will be used 8 times/week. Do you think that the limitation is from health/technical standpoint ? thanks!
@@radusebastianionita803 Hi Radu, glad to read your comment. My average use is 2/3 times a week, mainly HIIT sessions of about 45 minutes, but I'm pretty sure it can stand more frequent workouts without problems. However, when purchasing the machine I opted for an inexpensive (39,99 euros/48 usd) additional warranty extending the manufacturer's technical assistance in case of defects/mulfunctions for further 3 years, for longer-term peace of mind. Hope you'll enjoy it as much as I have.
@@davidedegiorgi9986 Hey, just a quick one. My rower just shipped, i've mounted it and i must say i am pretty happy with it. Now, what bothers me is that when you fold the rower, the black paint will get scratched in an arc form. I think i might have overtightened the screw (longest one in the package). Do you have the same scenario ? Thx!
@@radusebastianionita803 Hi Radu, I haven't experienced this kind of issue, but it's very likely that you overtightened the screw, I turned the screw slightly loose and it didn't cause any scratch (overall stability and safety while using the machine are not undermined by doing so).
@@davidedegiorgi9986 again for other confused buyers. This machine will kill you, if you are am entry rower such as I am. Really happy with the purchase. Thx Davide for reassuring me to proceed with the purchase. For this amount of € you will never find anything this sturdy, good looking and connected.
Oh! You were (sort of) nearby!
(I’m living in Brussels, Belgium).
I’ve bought some small stuff from decathlon. They have some nice and basic clothes for sports.
Hi, I could really use the opinion from someone who actually owns Domyos 500 and use it for a period of time. I'm thinking about buying one for home use and I really don't want to make mistake.
Bought one Jan 2020. Used it twice a week for the first month or so. Not knowing what I was doing it seemed fine but I was thrashing it. I couldn't do more than 5 mins and I decided it wasn't for me because I got nothing out of it. After New year this year a friend said I should follow RUclips rowing videos, which I did and found how bad the Domyos 500 is. In a row of 10 minutes at a steady 20 spm the Domyos told me I had done 57 strokes? Although I was pressing hard the best split was 8.5 at the gym I normally split at 2.5-2.8, calories show 12? Basically the display (software) is rubbish and can't be trusted. I now have a Concept 2 on order and I can't wait. Not having the right metric really spoils the whole effort. I do use it 5 times a week following RUclips videos but all I can do is follow the instructers stroke rate.
Same case here. Same exact problems
I have it for two years and love it. Absolutely worth every penny and even if you are used to professional gym equipment, it’s great for home.
Hi Shane, I'm really glad that you have tested Domyos equipment. I have just bought the Domyos 120 rower you tested and I am quite disappointed that I haven't found a community of users for this machine. I am a beginner and I cannot give an deep review on the machine, but it has been of great use in these pandemic times. There are somethings I dislike on this machine e though. The display will only show distance with more than one decimal point, which means I am only able to measure my progress each 100m and it feel frustrating as it too much of distance for a begginer. I was a little suspicious about the monitor precision, since my all out efforts give something of 1km in 10 minute's and though I may not be a super athlete, far form it actually, I thought I could do way better. It gets even weirder since the catch drill you tought would show 100m for each 20 "strokes". I think this should mean my 1k time should be better, doesn't it? Well, this been said the machine has allowed me to keep some physical activity, and mental health. Thank you for your work. I always watch your videos for guidance
I have the 500, my brother the 120. They have a dumb algorithm: 5m per stroke regardless of stroke length or speed or even resistance. So don’t compare speed or power with a concept2. Good enough for a good sweat, not for people who would want to improve their rowing technique or track their fitness in any detail.
@@cedricbrouste3112 thank your for your comment. This 5m per stroke makes total sense as far as my experience goes and I really feel like a fool for having taken this machine's monitor seriouslly. I wonder if we couldn't have our money back because of this. Is the calorie measure as stupid as this distance measure? Do you know anything about it?
@@cedricbrouste3112 hi Cedric, you must have tried 120 also, can you please write a comparison of both models? I am sure that it will be very helpful for many people like me who are trying to decide which model to get. I really wonder the noise levels and the feeling after a workout. Are they loud, which one is louder, is it just cardio or an intense workout? I would be much grateful if you give me an advice 🙏
@@oguztoptas8717 I did not try it, bro lives several hours away and 2020 was not a good time to go visit (we both purchased at the beginning of the pandemic). But from our discussions, I can tell that the main difference is that the 500 has a smarter console that can shift the resistance so apps like kinomap can change the resistance on the fly. On 120 you would have to change the resistance manually during the exercise. So 500 is a much better option if you plan to use such apps, I don't regret the extra cash because of that. I know that 120 has a lighter magnetic wheel which in theory means that the movement is less fluid but I could not experience the difference so I don't know how much of a problem that is vs 500.
@@cedricbrouste3112 thank you for fast response and all the detailed information you have given, I got one last question that troubles my mind. Some people wrote that the stroke is felt very light at the beginning of the movement which makes it less difficult for legs, do you agree with that?
They have Concept 2's in stock over there? Might have to make a little trip to france in that case
Filmed last Jan/Feb so pre 2020 craziness :)
@@DarkHorseRowing I figured, all decathlon are empty right now in terms of fitness equipments :p.
I may live in a small apartment but I am absolutely getting a concept 2. Sometimes neighbors have to make sacrifices
Thank you for the quick review. I'm waiting for my Domyos 500 to be delivered this coming weekend. Unfortunately there aren't any Concept 2 rowers available locally and shipping would make it 2.5 times as expensive as the Domyos 500 so I opted for that instead inspite of the few negative points about it. Hoping it will be a good machine to complement my BJJ workouts 3 times a week.
Hi, I see it's been a year since you wrote this comment. I'm trying to find a good rowing machine with a magnetic system. I find the Concept 2 extremely noisy. I thought about the Domyos 500B but I went to try it out in a shop and it was totally broken, screen, seat and other things. It gave me a bad impression. I want to ask you, after a year can you advise the Domyos 500B? I would like to train at least 4 times a week.
Thank you very much.
Regards
@@300rmpHi there. My Domyos is still in good working condition and is reliable. Would I recommend it though? I'm not so sure for the following reasons: 1. The spacing of the foot rests is too far apart and they're not adjustable. It makes my knees turn inwards which is uncomfortable. 2. There is a slack on every pull/drive before the strap catches no matter how smooth I pull it. This throws off my rowing rhythm. 3. Even though I'm not that tall (5'5" or 165 cm), it feels like on the return/catch phase I can go further with my arms but I'm stopped by the placement of the screen and where the strap attaches to the machine is just too far forward.
I've tried a Concept 2 rower at a gym I visited and I didn't face any of these issues. Other than the louder sound of the machine, it's a much better rowing experience and can see why people highly recommend them. I'm considering getting one of those instead.
I hope the above helps, and if the sound of the Concept 2 is a show stopper, at least you can pay attention to those issues that I mentioned when shopping for another rowing machine.
You need to try the Coffey Simulatoar. Nothing comes close to simulating rowing on the water. Everyone should use it before they get in a shell.
Hi, whats the difference between Domyos 500 and domyos 500 B ?
So glad we bought a concept 2
Do you have a list of machines you've reviewed?
I was wondering if you ever reviewed the one I just got. (Proform 750r)
Just curious.
With the water rower i fill mine to the max fill indicator line and the resistance on the drive depends on what I put into it with my legs. When I really put give it some power, the resistance gets quite ridiculous lol
Also, totally agree though regarding the issue trying to get into a good "catch" position due to the height of the seat and feet. Got mine for 500 brand new though so can't complain too much
I did it :D I bought it from dechatlon and used that phone holder to watch your workouts. Thanks.
The wider feet on the 500 is interesting. Being 6’4 and having massive calves, they actually rub on the rail of the C2. Really my only complaint with the concept!
LEGEND❤ Thanks for the video bro
Your review really helps! Thanks
Hi, thanks for reviewing all différent modèls, it helps a lot when you're a beginner liké me!
I use that water rower (Pure Design VR2) and agree the foot height is an issue. Though I’ve found you can get a pretty good workout on it and go pretty hard. (And welcome to France!)
@Gethin Jones ... Why don’t you simply add a seat cushion to the pure rower?
@@strawberryyogurt0 I hadn't really thought about the height issue until watching the video and that hadn't occurred to me - might try that, thanks!
Have you ever tried the Stamina X AMRAP? At the beginning of the pandemic, I found your videos and tried grabbing a Concept2, but there was a huge backorder. I did my research and chose the Stamina X AMRAP and couldn't be happier. From what I can tell, it's the closest thing you can get to a Concept2, both aesthetically and functionally. For $499, I couldn't beat the price! Just a thought if you ever spot one around to maybe review it.
@Dark Horse Rowing
Magnetic resistance has a drawback: sooner or later everyone will outmuscle it. While water or air resistance is almost limitless in the amount of resistance; the stronger you push ("push, don't pull"), the greater the resistance is, magnetic resistance is much less dependent on the input force. At some point every more serious rower will feel, that the machine is "weak".
I had a magnetic rower (however it was not a Domyos, but still the same "Chinese" quality and construction), I started my rowing adventure on it, but I quite quickly, in 2 months, outmuscled it and my force just destroyed the internal parts of the machine as I tried to stroke harder. Fixing it was futile, since I would destroy it again. I bought the C2 model D, that is with me until today and is virtually indestructible.
Magnetic resistance machines can give appropriate range of resistance and a decent durability, but at a cost that is much greater than the C2 or Waterrower.
Next thought: If a machine does not allow for a full, correct rowing stroke, it cannot be considered as a tool for training. Maybe the absolute beginner or a child can get some workout on such a machine, but rather sooner than later the purchase a decent rowing machine will be necessary. Plus, in training the performance monitor is an absolute necessity. These magnetic cheap machines do not have it. OK, they can display distance or calories, but they do not measure the input power (as a PM on C2 does), but merely they just count strokes and display some mean value of calories per stroke times number of strokes or, say 10 m/stroke times number of strokes. So they are not performance monitors, they are just toys mimicking the real PM.
I would warn before buying the magnetic rower in the several hundreds dollar range. It will almost surely be the waste of money.
Much better solution - to buy a ticket to a gym, even to hire some coach that will teach us, and try if we like rowing for a month or two on C2 or Waterrower. And we can decide if we should buy one for home use without risk, that it will become an expensive clothes' hanger at home.
You share here a very interesting klowledge/experience! Thanks so much. I've rowed for 6 years with a group specialised in indoor rowing. The C2 is the obvious choice. I tryed a very good water rowing machines but didn't like the feel of the resistance provided by the water tank. The magnetic machines suffers a lack of transportability. It is so good to be able to take your C2 outside in the sun and breathe fresh air. Or even bring it close to a lake! The pandemic brought me to buy my own C2 since the gyms had to close. I love it.
Wow...Nicely put, Greaaaat and very valid points. Thank you sooo much. It is helping me in taking informed decisions. Really appreciate your good nature to HELP people in making decision about buying a rower like me
The bungee rower actually comes with a tighter bungee too... Just so you know... I have one , its cheapest option available for weight loss buyers looking for cheap and compact rower...
It comes with a light pull and a tight pull bungee ...
Add a seat cushion to the water/pure rower to increase the height.
Why does the decathalon description of the 120 say “ use up to two times per week”. It makes me think it won’t be able to handle regular workouts!
So cool to see in France. Have got the chance to talk to Decathlon folks ? They are really passionate and easy to talk to...
Are rowing machines good for low back pain?
Is the 120 big enough for a 6'3 (191cm) tall person?
Decathlon is honorable French company, they are very popular in Morocco and around the world, they make quality products
Thank you sooo much for making a very useful video, would like to hear more about Domyos 500 Please. Planning to buy domyos500
Wish I lived near a store that cool.
Welcome in France! :)
I just got the 100 before seeing this. Am short and a beginner so I hope I don't regret it
the problem i have with cheaper rowers is they are too light , so the more you pull the bar, it lifts. have to say the concept 2 doesnt have that issue.
C2 still wins! No surprise here. But do you know if Concept 2 plan to compete with those newcomers in terms of "entertaining colored screen" like Ergatta or Hydrow ? I'd be so happy to use my tablet synced to my PM5 dynamized by some more appealing and dynamic app than the ErgData. I'm sold to C2! But I'd want the guys beat the newcomers selling fresh ideas on so-so rowing machines. What do you think?
@@olafdesneeuwman8983 Thank you very much Olaf. Looks quite interesting. 👍
Bienvenue en France Shane !
Hum must be an old video cause people don't wearing any Masks.
Hope you enjoyed beers from Belgium and North part of France....
Decathlon is my favourite store. However, the Concept 2 makes the Domyos rowers look like toys. Sorry Decathlon. I still love you.
Isn't selling your concept2 akin to a sin? :-) Admittedley I dont use mine enough but the thought of letting it go.... no way
The domyos 100 has two bands one is thicker
Did any one try the thicker band ?
Are you coming to the Netherlands or Just staying in France?
Cool store.
Very cool
@@DarkHorseRowing UR 6'3 or 6'6 ?
I have a WaterRower with S4 and Bluetooth 1,045$ + $60 with an Ergatta hooked up $550. Also a laptop/tablet holder underneath ($150) that I use to play Hydrow and/or iFit, CityRow, and other instructor led courses. So pretty much I said f*ck you to the industry and cheated everybody by spending less and getting getting the best of all 3 worlds and took the best parts from each 😎
Interested in the coaching course. Best to contact you via email?
Absolutely! Send an email to support@darkhorserowing.com
Never buy the Xterra 220 magnetic is absolute garbage,your feet slip out all the time living a bad pain in your legs,my next purchase is the Concept 2,learned my lesson the hard way.
Why anybody ain't wearing masks in there? 🤔
Filmed pre-pandemic
So long story short. Water rower =No, Concept 2 = Yes.
No masks? C'mon man, 102k people follow you.
This was filmed pre-pandemic...check the comments
God, you people are annoying.