There is no doubt that rowing is one of the best full-body aerobic exercises you can do.
You’ll work every muscle group and become a better rower in the process (a big plus for outdoorsy types).
To get the best benefits from rowing, you need to have the right rowing machine at home.
There are a lot of rowing machines to choose from, but when I came across the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower I automatically knew it was one of the best choices out there.
Here is everything you need to know about this amazing rowing machine.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Rower
Before I start convincing you that the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower is the best rower you’ll find on the planet, there’s some things about rowers that you should know.
When you’re in the market for a rower the first thing you should be aware of is that there are four different types of rowers.
All of them have their pros and cons and all of them can give you a good workout. Choosing one is more a matter of personal preference.
However, knowledge is power, so it doesn’t hurt to know the four types.
The Four Types of Rowers
- Hydraulic
- Flywheel
- Magnetic resistance
- Water
You’re probably wondering what the big differences between the four are.
Hydraulic Rowers
Hydraulic rowers are probably the most compact and cost-efficient.
However, they don’t allow you to mimic a natural rowing technique and they can be a bit loud. The resistance comes from air or fluid located in a piston.
Flywheel Rower
A flywheel rower uses resistance that comes from fans and air. The faster you pull the flywheel ropes, the more resistance you get.
Flywheels are one of the most popular types of rowers because the movement that you perform on these rowers most closely mimic natural rowing movements.
They are often used in competitions.
Magnetic Resistance Rowers
Magnetic resistance rowers are the quietest of the four types. This is because it uses a magnetic braking system for resistance. This means no friction which means no noise.
Water Rower
The last type, the water rower, is preferred by many people because using water for resistance gives the same feel as rowing outdoors in water.
Water rowers are also quiet. You’ll just hear the swish of the water.
Rowing Machine Benefits
Rowing machines have the ability to give you a full body work out that is low impact.
If you are looking to lose weight or just improve your overall physical fitness, a rowing machine is a complete workout that targets both your upper body and lower body.
It can be a great option for those who want to stay active but are currently rehabilitating, or for active rowers who want to get an extra session in when it doesn’t really make sense to go outside.
Various parts of your body are engaged during a rowing workout, and can really get your heart rate up.
Other Considerations
The good thing about rowing machines is that they’re all pretty straightforward.
Size
There are smaller features that can make your experience comfortable. For example, size is important.
Rowing machines are a pretty long piece of equipment, even if you get a compact one. If space is an issue, you may want to consider a folding machine.
You also need to make sure you have a good bit of clearance around you as you work out.
Seat
Seat size is important also. We’re all shaped differently back there, so one size does not fit all.
Getting a seat that’s too small can be uncomfortable and even painful.
Weight Limit
This leads into another point – weight limit.
You need to make sure that whoever uses it isn’t more than the maximum weight that the machine can handle.
You may think you can get away with it, but all you’ll do is break down the machine and void your warranty.
Frame
Pay close attention to the frame.
You don’t want to get some cheap plastic frame that’s going to shake and rattle each time you row. That’s a sure sign that it’s not very durable.
Aim for comfort items like padded seats and handles, and inclined foot pads. All of these will make working out a much more comfortable experience.
The Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower
Now that you know what to look for in a good rower, I can present the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower to you.
This is an incredibly impressive rower that has a lot to offer in a home gym machine.
It’s high-quality, affordable, compact (for a rowing machine), and highly rated.
Even the appearance of the machine let’s people know you’re ready to get down to business.
Like any piece of equipment, you buy for a home gym, there are bound to be some pros and cons. I’ve highlighted a few of the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W here.
Pros
- Comes with a five-year warranty on the frame.
- Offered at an affordable price point.
- Exceptionally smooth rowing performance.
- Lightweight (without the water).
- Easy to assemble.
Cons
- It’s doesn’t fold.
- Has a small LCD screen.
- No Bluetooth connectivity.
Features and Benefits of the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower
The Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower is an average-sized home water rower. It measures 80.7” L x 22” W x 33” H.
While it doesn’t fold, it can stand up the long way so that it’s only taking up a 3 foot by 2-foot space. It will stand securely so you don’t have to worry about it tipping over.
While 80 inches seems like a lot of space, keep in mind that about a third of that space is taken up by the water container and other hardware.
Therefore, you’re looking at a little over 50 inches of space to stretch your legs as you row. That’s usually plenty for most people, even people with long legs.
The seat height is very comfortable. At 13.5 inches from the ground, it’s a good height for rowing, but not so low that people with mobility issues can’t get up from it.
The rower only weighs a little over 82 pounds, but it can easily support up to 300 pounds. That also puts it in a category of great machines for larger-sized people.
Quality and Sturdiness
For the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower to securely support up to 300 pounds of weight, it must be built like a tank.
Many water rowers are made of wood, which is a solid material, but the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W is made of a high-quality, thick gauge solid steel frame.
In fact, it comes with a five-year warranty on the frame so you can rest assured that it’s built to last.
Another positive is that the feet are made wide and in a triangle shape.
This means you don’t have to worry about the annoying rocking back and forth as you work out. The machine will stay firmly planted and you can give it your all while rowing.
Display and Programmable Modes
I’ll admit, the display is a bit small on the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower.
It’s a 5.5-inch LCD display but only about 2 inches by one inch of that shows actual numbers and words.
On a treadmill, this could work but when you’re rowing back and forth, it could be a little difficult to concentrate on the small numbers and letters of a 5.5-inch display with such a small information readout.
The good news is that this in no way affects the performance of the machine, so if you can deal with a small display, you’re still in business here.
The Xterra Fitness ERG600W has five programmable modes. These modes are:
- Race Against Computer
- Strokes Countdown
- Calories Countdown
- Time Countdown
- Distance Countdown
Choosing between modes is quick and easy.
The display shows you all pertinent information like time, calories burned, strokes, clock, and even your heart rate if you get the optional chest strap.
You can also feel free to freestyle your own program.
Water Tank and Impellers
The water tank on the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower is what provides your resistance.
There are six levels that you can fill the tank to. Level one is the least resistance while level six is the most.
These levels are marked off on the side of the tank so you can easily see what level you’re filling it to. The water tank is easily removed for emptying once you’re done.
The impellers are specifically designed to make you feel like you’re actually rowing in water.
They give off a distinct sound of “whooshing”, like oars in the water. Not only will you get a good workout, but you’ll have a soothing experience as well.
What Others are Saying About the ERG600W Water Rower
Review #1 – Matt
Happy, Happy, Happy
I really like this rowing machine. I did a lot of reviews and I wanted the same brand but a different model but because of the covid-19 it was out of stock and not sure when it would return. Went together quite easily and the fit was great all parts were included the machine work was done well very pleased with the quality.? The price and free home delivery made it a no-brainer. Now it is up to me to use it everyday.
Review #2 – Nick C.
Love the purchase!
Like others, I was unsure what to make given lack of reviews, but with a little research I thought this was the best product at this price. Happy to say it’s worked out very well. Delivery was fast and I was able to assemble within an hour. It has worked out perfectly for my basement, and I love rowing as much as I can. The only knock I have is that the batteries that were provided only lasted a week or two, but that’s a small price to pay for a product that I know will pay dividends for a long time. Highly recommend this rower!
Review #3 – Felix R.
Love the rower and it will give you a great workout.
Alternatives to the Xterra Fitness ERG600W Water Rower
MaxKare Water Rowing Machine
The MaxKare Water Rowing Machine is remarkably similar to the ERG600W machine and could almost be considered as a “bargain” version of the Xterra machine.
As with any bargain purchase, there will be a few sacrifices, but the quality is not one of them. It’s a very sturdy, durable machine that is built to last with a heavy-duty steel frame.
I don’t recommend this for tall people – you only have about 43 inches of bench space. Besides that, it’s a good buy.
| MaxKare Water Rowing Machine | Xterra ERG600W |
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Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine is one of the sturdiest on the market.
The seat is also a good distance from the ground, 17 inches tall. With such similar options as the Xterra rower and slightly lower price point, you could save a few dollars and get about the same quality.
However, this bench is a bit on the short side so I wouldn’t recommend it for tall people.
| Sunny Health & Fitness | Xterra ERG600W |
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Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine
The Mr. Rudolf Water Rowing Machine is a premium quality wooden rower that will make you feel like you’re outdoors.
It’s designed like a real boat to give you an authentic rowing experience. The natural oak finish gives the rower a touch of elegance while the included dust cover protects the wood from damage.
The rower is Bluetooth capable and has a brightly lit LCD display. The display is a little smaller than the others but it’s easier to read.
| Mr. Rudolf Machine | Xterra ERG600W |
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Final Thoughts
Despite the alternatives being excellent choices, my number one pick would still be the XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower.
It has the “just right” theme going for it.
Fair price point, great for tall or short people, sturdy, high-quality, and just enough options to keep things interesting.
It’s truly a solid buy for anyone who wants to add rowing to their everyday routine.
