Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

This is a very easy machine to use. I love the heart monitor.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I could not be happier with my rowing machine.
I grew up on a lake and would row every day. Now that I am in my 60's and no where near a lake, I'm enjoying the rowing experience once again. It's great exercise and so easy to use.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Preset routines are easy to use and keep you from getting bored when using the unit multiple times a week.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I gave up sport 15 years ago, I'm 36. Then I found out I had a bit of cholesterol, and I guessed I could lose a few kgs. I didn't want to be tight to a gym. But I wanted a "committing" purchase so that I would have a good incentive to stick to a training plan. I checked all the machines available, and after a lot of research, I found out a rowing machine would be ideal in that it has you working on many muscles, and is often qualified as a perfect "cardio training" exercise. This is equipment is NOT for muscle building of course. But it's a perfect candidate to maintain a good physical condition. I practise once a week and aim at twice a week.I'm really an amateur but regarding gadgets and technology, I know how to compare, read forums, etc..I did all this for this important investment of course, and ended up with the Lifecor R100. So what's in it that's so good ?[...] So the computer fitted on the machine is very useful to make it "enjoyable": set your duration, distance, heart rate target, number of strokes, whatever you want to make the exercise compulsive, or challenging, you'll end up staring at the computer and time will fly.- Noise: you'll read a LOT of reviews complaining about noise, the R100 will definitely let you handle a conversation while exercising, but you'll want to keep your breath and listen to low volume music or TV instead. the R100 lets you do that, this is a massive pro for me.- It comes with a chest heart beat meter (mind though: Lifecore doesn't mention that on their web site or brochure! but forums and customer service again confirmed), that communicates with the computer. It was a mandatory equipment for me as I aimed at setting the pace so that I could be in the maximum fat burning zone. You enter your age, weight, etc..and the computer will get you the resistance needed . There are 16 levels of resistance thanks to a magnetically powered "brake". Plenty enough to make you work, but again,this is not muscle building, it's cardio training, check what your objective really is.- The overall construction, well my title says it all, it's engineered to last, period. we're talking about heavy stuff, resistant material, aluminium and steel), resting for the feet is perfect and adjustable, the seat is larger than usual, and comfortable, the handle is solid , foam is highly resistant, the whole thing reminds you more of a German machine tool than a Chinese toy (no offense). Yet, they make it foldable, with wheels, so that you can easily hide it in a (deep) closet. But I'm sure if you're into this kind of kit, you'll let it sit unfolded in your basement or dedicated room.Overall, I see no con to this equipment. The price is above average, but it can't be considered as a con if it comes with the quality. So I would score very highly the R100 in terms of value for money. Their lower range product is surely of the same built, the main difference being the computer. I wouldn't trade it personally as I like this scientific/rational approach, but you may want to.I hope this review was useful, if you read a bit about rowing machines, I'm sure you'll come down to this one, if you can afford it, it's a no brainer.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Not as easy to move folded up. Need better wheel configuration

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I need to exercise on a regular basis because I'm Diabetic and this rowing machine does it all for less cost!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I began using a rowing machine at the gym. I really liked it, so when I decided to set up a gym in my home, a rower was a must. I actually like this rower better than the ones the gym has. The only complaint I have is the noise, but that's no big deal for me because I use headphones to hear the TV I watch while I work out. I love it. It is a great machine and a great price!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Great rowning machine.After a year still works great.The built in heart rate monitor gets easily confused if another device is in use close by. This causes the heart rate to go off the chart until the other device stops transmitting. (I think one of my neighbors has something similar) I believe the new generation transmitters and recievers don't suffer from this problem as they are uniquely keyed to each other.Still... for the price it was worth it as a monitor and strap was around[$], which was still cheaper than anywhere else.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I am a runner and use this for cross training, improved my running times and is used often because it is fun and works.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

This product is easy to use and has helped in my overall weight loss goal.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Daily low impact aerobic conditioning.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Rowing is a great total body exercise and this machine makes it pretty easy. It has greatly improved my core strength, which translates into better results in surfing, tennis, running and chasing my kid around the house.

Some minor complaints, including footstraps that tend to loosen during long workouts and a heart rate monitor that sometimes give spotty readings (I'm pretty sure that after rowing 8,000 meters at 400 watts, my heart rate is not 90--unless I'm in better shape than I thought).

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I use the rower at least 5 days a week and the large number of programs allows me to never get bored. The worst thing is that the foot straps loosen after about 15 minutes of hard rowing but its nothing to stop for a few seconds, pull them tight and resume rowing...

Excellent machine for the purpose and the price.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I am a 63 year old woman. I get up at 5:30 AM 6 days a week, 20 minutes on treadmill and 5 - 10 minutes on rower right now. I am trying to lose those middle pounds and work on overall strength without breaking any bones. This rower is near perfect for me!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Love this machine. It's quiet, easy to set up, easy to operate, love the heart monitor. My only complaint is that the feet are too far apart and they angle out at the toes instead of being straight up and down. Also, the heart rate monitor does not always work properly. Sometimes it fails to detect my heart beat and gives me an inaccurate heart rate.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Full body workout without any strain on your joints. Helps my surfing

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I bought the machine because it was rated as being quiter than the competitors. Well that's one thing it has going for it, that and it's made of aluminum extrustions that could support a house.

I should have done more research before sinking more money into a product that doesn't ergonomically perform as well as the competitors lesser expensive performance equivalent model.

Foot stretchers are too far apart, much farther apart than they would ever be in a rowing shell.

I'm 6'5" (2+m) tall and I stroke out the strap (pull to the end of travel) on the drive pulley mechanism, but what do you expect from a design born of Taiwanese engineering?

The performance monitor is more suited to someone who has never seen the kind of information that the avid rower is used to having in front of them. Its 500m split output is very limited, it couples distance and time workouts together (one or the other please, but not both, unless you want a challenge of trying to finish the distance to the exact moment before the clock runs out.)

My suggestion: stick with the poeple that brought the stationary rower to the mainstream. They seem to understand that there's more to comfort and rowing ergonomics than reduced noise.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Love this product. It's better than the one my gym offers. It's sturdy, comfortable, glides easily, adjusts easily, and gives you a good workout. The programs are cool and keep you occupied while rowing. I have it in front of our back window and while I'm rowing I look at the mountains and imagine there's a lake just below it somewhere. It's a peaceful workout. Just be sure you have the room to set this up and leave it there. It's can be moved relatively easily but it's not something you put away each day. The bar does lift up to reduce the floor space it uses but it is still a reduction. I'd definitely buy this again.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I use my rower 3 to 4 times a week and get a great workout. Since I purchased it 3 months ago I can tell a noticeable difference in my conditioning and core body strength. The machine itself seems indestructable. The only drawback I have found is that the foot straps loosen during a workout and it is a pain to stop and have to retighten when you are in a timed work out trying exceed goals you have set for yourself. Overall I am very pleased!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

It's a very good machine when it's working. Adequate resistance and smooth motion. But the motor that controls the resistance must be incredibly delicate, despite the price of the machine. Apparently the gears get stripped very easily. I would not buy this machine unless you have a local retailer willing to make housecalls.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I've had the R100 for several months and use it regularly. I can't run due to an injury and was going crazy trying to find a substitute for aerobic exercise. The R100 fits the bill. An added benefit is that it builds muscle in the upper body as well. I highly recommend this rower.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Love the variety of readings the heart monitor provides as you work out. Different measurements of speed, heart rate, distance, etc... encourages you to increase the level of workout in a suttle way. Would suggest you add $1.19 strap lock to keep foot straps tight. Doesn't get much better in quality.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I have had this rowing machine for over a year now and it is the best machine out there. I tested out over 20 machines and nothing matched lifecore's quality for the price. The machine is extremely sturdy and does an excellent job sculpting and toning every muscle in your body. The only thing a new buyer may want to consider is to make sure you have enough space. I was surprised that even when it was folded up it was still pretty big.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

This rower looks good, is very solid, and is easy to use. I doubt anyone uses all the electronic pacing gizmos, but the screen is a good motivator, if rather simplistic graphically. There is moderate noise...you'll have to turn up the TV to use it.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Quiet and smooth operation is important to me and this unit is very quiet and smooth. The various programs on the display are very helpful and provide variety. I particularly like the pulse monitor function to monitor pulse rate.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I look forward to rolling out of bed and having a great workout before work. It is an all over workout.

FOOT PEDALS. They do loosen up, and you need to pull the strap to tighten them back up once in awhile during the workout.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

So far, the LifeCore R100 has been a great purchase. It's extremely comfortable to use and the LCD controller is easy to read and relatively straight forward.

I saw where others complained of the foot straps coming loose during use, and that is true. However, you can loop the strap back over and through the slip cuff and they will stay tight.

The pad is a bit too short for the overall length of the rower, so I've got it under the heaviest part of the rower on my carpeted floor.

I've yet to be able to get the wireless pulse monitor to work. I've purchased a new battery for the monitor, and I put batteries into the controller on the rower not knowing if they were necessary.

The instruction manual is the only thing that leaves something to be desired. There are some things on the LCD display that aren't explained at all in the manual.

Overall, I'm quite pleased with the piece and would recommend it to anyone. I purchased it with the intent of general cardiovascular fitness, and it's doing well in that regard.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I have been using the Concept 2 at the gym and this rowing machine is definitely a step up. I was surprised how quiet it is and it is very smooth. The magnetic resistance is really great combined with the air resistance and give a versatile and great workout. My wife also uses it and loves it. It is well built. Also there was a damaged part in shipping and Lifecore shipped a new part right away with no hassles. The computer has a lot of versatility and I really like the heart rate monitor. It is large when not folded and I intend to fold it only when I need the space. Overall I'm very pleased and recommend it without hesitation.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

i love this machine. I have nothing bad to say about it. it is very ergonomically correct and an effective piece of equipment.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

For a double whammy work out -- upper body strength training and endurance.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

This machine is very smooth. The flywheel and the seat glide nicely. The flywheel is a little noisy but quieter than rowers I have used at the gym. It was very easy to set-up. One drawback is that it is tough to close for storage and then re-open by yourself. The other is that the foot straps come loose during use. Our machine gets used by both my husband and me so it is run most days of the week. I wanted a commercial grade machine on which I could work out hard and that is what I got. I really like this machine.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I've used this machine to lose weight and develop upper body and leg strength. The computer display is easy to use and read. The machine is constructed of durable materials. I had to replace a couple damaged parts following a move - and the OEM was very helpful in providing cheap replacement parts. I recommend this machine.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

The only thing I do not like, as compared to the C2, is the 500 meter split time. The C2 computer will tell what your 500 meter time is with each individual stroke. The LifeCore 500 meter time does not vary with each stroke, it must be some average of a certain amount of strokes. This is important because with the C2 you can tell how well you do with each stoke and make instant adjustments to optimze your rowing.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I had three cervical spine surgeries and my rowing machine is helping me get back to a good fitness level. I love the different levels and programs available because of the flexibility they afford me. It was easy to assemble, even for me, a female who lives alone. This is a great rowing machine and I love rowing machines!!!

My only major problem is it is hard to move around on carpet and it is quite heavy. Also, it did not come with the items to measure my heart rate and for the price I thought it should.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I really enjoy working out on the rower. I feel like I get a really great workout in a short amount of time. My only complaint is that the foot straps become loose and you have to tighten them. Otherwise, so far it is an awesome machine. My kids really like to row on it too.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I have been working out 3 to 4 times a week for 30 minutes each session for almost a month now on the R100 APM rower and it is definitely helping me get back into shape. I had used a Stairmaster climber but it was hard on my knees.
The R100 APM has a very solid frame/structure. There are a few minor squeaks and rattles when it recoils at times but I have yet to pinpoint the exact causes. I wish it was a bit quieter but I am getting used to it.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

overall excellent machine. Foam cover on handle ripped almost immediately but other than that it has been wonderful

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I've allways thought I kept myself in pretty good condition but at age 54 in the middle of remodeling my house on May 4th,2007 at 5:00 AM my wife called 911. The next morning (lucky to be alive)I was informed that I had sufferd a heart attack and they had performed a 6 bypass surgery on me. Needless to say the next six months were hell. They put me in rehab ten days after surgery where I struggled to walk two miles an hour on a treadmill after two weeks. After about three weeks they let me do the rowing machine, which I really enjoyed. Almost one year to the day of my bypass surgery I now own this rowing machine. I love it! Now I can get the upper body workout my treadmill and bycicle don't give me. I plan on being around to watch my 10 and 14 year old boys play football and baseball for a long time. This machine is going to help make that possible. I have to exercise 30 to 45 minutes everyday,now I enjoy it. If the seat wheels make noise just take the covers off and clean the wheels off,something very small could make them noisey. Oh by the way,I've had two back surgeries and both knees scoped. See you in 30 years!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Well made, easy to set up, very quiet, the vent is a nice touch.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

An improvement with the foot straps is reccomended

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

For several years I have lusted for a Concept II erg. I used one in a gym and thought it must be the best, especially since it is used so widely. After finally having the cash and available space I was all set to order it when the LifeCore caught my attention. After reading all the reviews I was really conflicted. I waited another day and finally decided to go with the LifeCore. After using it daily for the last 2 weeks I am totally satisfied that I made the right decision. My experience has been completely positive from the moment I placed the order. The erg was in my possesion 5 days after ordering. The delivery company called in advance to set up a delivery time and they were very helpful and brought it into my garage. Unpacking and assembly took about 45 minutes and was quite easy. The machine itself is a joy to use. I can really find nothing negative to report. I haven't even had a problem with the foot straps as mentioned by other reviewers. After having my heart set on a Concept II for so long I am now satisfied that I made the right choice, thanks to the Retailer's comments and the input from other users (to whom I offer my thanks). I hope my input will help another prospective buyer make the right choice. This is a high quality piece of equipment and I look forward to many years of trouble-free use.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Great Product. Easy to set up and use. One drwback is the locking system for storage. You must hold up
the sliding seat portion with one hand while simultaneously screwing in the locking mechanism. Any type of locking system would be better thatn what is there. Overall it is worth the extra effort.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I use the rower as part of my exercise routine, it has proven to be a very good investment.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

My wife and I use this machine every night since Nov 2007 (almost every night) and the only fault I found with this is the foot straps do not stay tight. Otherwise it has been great.
My wife who never took gym in school or did any type of physical exercise found this rower to be a stress free way to loose weight and get fit.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I am recovering from surgery and had complications of DVT. My doc recommended vigorous exercise that wouldn't put a great strain on my legs. This seems to do the trick, and I enjoy the rowing. It is a big machine, and although it folds, one still needs some floor space for it. A caution-the nicely machined rail that that seat rides on is easily nicked, so be careful about vacuuming around it. If it nicks, then the seat makes a little clicking noise. (We smoothed it out with a fine file)
Love the little breeze that comes with rowing fast.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

THE GOOD:
- Great action; very smooth
- Good functionality on the computer
- Computer is easy to use and understand
- Generally of stout construction
- Heart monitor greatly increases value of unit
- I really like this machine, and believe it to be a quality, rugged unit that is just shy of perfect; I am happy with my purchase.

THE BAD:
- The bolt material is soft; the hex drive strips easily, so beware.
- If you use the included hex key, you will be at the original assembly forever; a 6mm hex with a ratchet and an extension will save you a lot of time. Adding a U-joint will maximize your efficiency.
- The machine squeaks during the return stage of the stroke. Not on every stroke, and some nights are worse than others, but this has been fairly consistent.

THE UGLY:
- Nothing.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

Pros: I have had this product for over a year. I have had zero problems with it, and am happy I flipped the extra money to get a high quality machine. There are many settings and at the highest difficulty anyone would get a good workout. (including my personal trainer GF) It's relatively quiet, has a wide range of difficulty, feels sturdy, and is very configurable.Cons: [...] the built in heart rate monitor gets confused if another device is in use within proximity. (keep in mind if using in an apartment, gym, or condo)I ended up buying a wrist monitor and strap for when my neighbor is also working out ([$]). This issue is fixed with 2.0 heart rate systems.Overall I am very pleased with my purchase[...]

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I set up my own home gym after working out at a local college where I work. They had a good sized gym complete with ellipticals, bikes, treadmills & rowing machines. Unfortunately, the only time I could work out was before/after work or during lunch, the same time everyone else on campus was going to work out. The only piece of equipment that was ever available was the rowing machine. I had never used one, but have come to consider it one of my favorites. When I decided to set up a gym in my home there was no doubt that a rowing machine had to be part of the plan. I researched different equipment for over a year - I purchased those 4 pieces: elliptical, bike, treadmill & this rowing machine. It is actually better than the ones in the college gym. I am very pleased with the quality and durability of my Lifecore rower. It is so convenient to be able to go down to my own gym whenever I want and not have to wait for a machine. I decide what and when and how I work out and I am so happy with my choices. I set a [$] budget and was able to get great quality machines within that range. Machines that will last a very long time. Plus I was able to purchase an LCD TV, DVD/VCR combo, set of elastic bands, and a duraball-in that budget!!! Now I have everything needed for cardio and strength training! It's great!!!

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

The electronics are TOO complex. This is the part that should be easy.

Comments about LifeCore Fitness LifeCore Fitness R100 APM Premier Rower:

I was skeptical on the gym-quality claim made when ordering, but I was not disappointed. We've had the rower now for over 6 months and use it 3-4 times a week. This rowing machine is built solid and provides a total body workout. Burns calories faster than anything else I ever used, and does it very quietly as compared to other exercise machines. Definitely thumbs up on the R100 APM Premier Rower!