We have a step mill machine with the actual rotating steps, a commercial spinning bike, the Concept 2 rowing machine, & a speed bag. I would also like a Cybex Arc Trainer. I use the rowing machine the most as I am on my feet all day long so it is just nice to give my feet a rest. I use the speed bag 2nd most. It is just plain fun to do.

I have a shredded tendon in my ankle that the doctor wants to do surgery on so I am not suppose to do any high impact exercise. I use to jump rope for 30-45min, 5 days a week, but I don't want to mess my ankle up more. The Cybex Arc Trainer is suppose to be one of the best total body cardio workouts you can do that is easy on your joints.

My advice is to get whichever one you enjoy doing the most because if you enjoy doing it, you are more likely to stick with it.

Is a water rower hard on your back? I have read the position of the feet is not low enough to avoid lower back pain.
Was considering getting one....

>>>I will go longer on a Water Rower than I do a Concept.

quote:

Originally posted by Turning_gal:
Is a water rower hard on your back? I have read the position of the feet is not low enough to avoid lower back pain.
Was considering getting one....

>>>I will go longer on a Water Rower than I do a Concept.

I have a bad lower back and the rower actually helped strengthen it...and my pain is much less often. I too as concerned about getting a rower with a bad back.

If it bothers me, I simply row less intense and for longer periods.

I adjust my stroke as well to minimize the hip pivot/back extension if my back is acting up.

Another vote for a rower. Really hard to beat the full body workout it provides.

quote:

Originally posted by Turning_gal:
Is a water rower hard on your back? I have read the position of the feet is not low enough to avoid lower back pain.
Was considering getting one....

>>>I will go longer on a Water Rower than I do a Concept.

I have countless hours on both. I have no back issues with either.
The reason I can go longer on the Water Rower is the design. It is very smooth and calming the water movement is much more consistent with actually rowing a boat in water.

The Concept 2 is a fantastic machine and provides an identical physical workout. The concept though is very much a mechanical machine. You have chain slop and the noise of the fan. You are very much reminded you are on a workout machine. I just enjoy the rowing experience of the Water Rower much more. I do not enjoy rowing on a concept because it reminds me I am working out and I hate working out.

That is why I purchased a Water Rower for the house over the concept.