You have landed on a WaterRower review, which can hopefully create more clarity (blow away any cob webs) for you on this very popular and not cheap piece of fitness equipment. The WaterRower brand has fast become a top seller, made extra famous by Kevin Spacey in House of Cards. So if a president can use it, then it must be more than ok! The demand is at an all time high.

Why Would You Choose A Water Rower?
The water rower is as close an experience to actually rowing in a lake, only difference its in your living space. The virtual mimics of water effect can be very enjoyable and uplifting (smooth workings of water can be relaxing and meditative). It suits all levels of rowing enthusiasts, from novice to the more competitive
WaterRower A1 Home Rowing Machine
The A1 is beautifully crafted, elegant, has great presence, you cannot walk past without wanting to try it. The rower itself is highly effective as a fitness goal grabber, the monitor is sub-standard though (basic in nature).
The model is well positioned comfort wise. In terms of construction of rail and a very functional padded seat, the foot pads are well designed (adjustable to suit feet size). The grip handles are ergo engineered, to improve safety and personal comfort.
The single long central beam ensures a smooth rowing action and easy gliding of seat movements. The machine is ordinarily quiet in motion (little disturbance).
The A1 has one touch operational buttons, so if you are more technical minded (love plenty functions) perhaps you might re-consider this option. You could say for the price maybe it should have more in this department.
How Does It Work?
The main water tank at the front is its driving force. It consists of paddles and a turbine, the tank holds water which can be added to or decreased as you see fit. The concept being when you pull on the attached strap the paddles rotate and cause and affect resistance. The resistance is generated by the force of water pulling against your actual rowing effort. The harder and faster you row the better the resistance. All you hear is the swirling and swooshing of water (low noise level).
Some prospective buyers think because its a water rower it need the regular maintenance (water constantly changed) to keep water fresh and clear. No its fine just to drop a water purifying tablet in every 6 months (1 no more). If the machine is sitting in a warmer area, like direct sun then you can add one tablet every 4 months, not difficult easy to do.
Pros
- Beautiful looking, elegant design
- Available in a number of finishes
- Very little noise, smooth rowing experience for most
- Padded comfortable and fully functional seat
- Not hard to work (lacks more advanced features compared to the Concept 2)
- Not too heavy but has solid wood construction
- You can shift it easily to stow (if you want it out of others view)
- Warranty is 3 years on parts and 5 years on frame (you can buy with assurance)
Cons
- The monitor basic in function perhaps not the best
- You cant attach any heart rate monitor
- Best part of one hour to get it constructed (but once its done you may be glad)
So In Summary
The A1 model has beauty and presence, but it will challenge you fitness wise. The sheer quality and construction of this rower will compel you to start using it as soon as construction is complete. The water tank workings create your resistance levels and you can cut back on this by actually reducing the water level. The maintenance is hardly anything (1 water purifying tablet). The basic monitor could be a put off if you love more technical functions then maybe you want to look elsewhere.

