First Concept 2 - Need Some Advice!

[RobDMB]

Hi,

I'm looking to purchase my first rower and Concept2's seem to be highly recommended. My goal is to use it for fitness/cardio/weight loss. With that use noted a few questions:

1. Dynamic v. Static - Is one better than the other for weight loss? Any other pro/cons I should consider.

2. Is it true that the dynamic models are easier on your back?

3. If I go static, is there any downside to the Model D v. Model E other than height? Is the height really a con or just a preference?

Thanks again!

[Anth_F]

Is the model E height really a con? eh.

It's actually well suited for people who suffer with knee problems, and who would have a hard time getting off other models due to their low height.

Other than this there is not really much difference between model D and E. Newer model D's also come with a nickel plated chain like the model E, & they both operate in the exact same way when you get on them. There is no downside to the model D!!!

[Bob S.]

There is no downside to the model D!!!

Except, as you just pointed out, for those who find that the seat is too far down. One might say that it has a downseat, if you will pardon the expression.
With regard to the OPs first items, I don't see how there could be much difference between the dynamic and the D (or E) with regard to weight loss. Dynamic easier on the back than a D? Well that seems to be the consensus, especially in Australia. The D on slides seems to also be better than a grounded D. The major factor for me was the smaller footprint of the dynamic. On the con side, the dynamic is more expensive, harder to set up, heavier, and awkward to move and store.

Bob S.

[aussieluke]

The dynamic is really only for serious on great water rowers and clubs. You won't get the best out of it without a very good rowing technique ...and might find it very difficult and frustrating to use without, I'd imagine.

A model D will last a lifetime, is easy to keep clean and maintained, and will hold an astonishing amount of resale value if it's not for you.

Model E is designed to be used in health clubs so it is meant to be slightly more rugged (not that the D is flimsy at all), and the higher seat accommodates people with mobility issues - but will also work fine for those without.

Just one thought as I assume you want it to go in your house - a model D takes up a decent amount of space - they look a lot bigger in your front room than they do in a gym. The E will look MASSIVE!

[Anth_F]

Yes it's true, model E is a biggie in person... i'm just fortunate to have enough spare space to accommodate mine in a permanent setup situation.

If you do not suffer from any mobility issues or knee problems, and are going to be buying brand new, just go for a Model D with a PM5 monitor

And as Luke mentions, they are super easy to keep clean and maintained.

[jamesg]

The Dynamic is best. It costs a bit more, and I can't say I like the more complicated engineering. The same machine but with a fixed seat and moving flywheel might be even closer to ideal and simpler (?).

The 12 yo C I have is fine, D likely better still, and can be a lifesaver. It might give you a crick in the neck if you go back and forth fast and hard a few million times, but nothing else apart from the phenomenal strength and fitness that we all have here. My last RX reports reduced intervertebral spaces, C3-4-5-6, maybe standard at my age anyway.

Fifteen years ago a C cured my backache as from the first day, and all my pipes, pumps etc are still open and operative. Brain not so good, but hard to blame that on the erg. My doc usually implies I should get out and stop wasting his time.

[Ombrax]

Call C2 and ask them what they think. I'm sure they'll explain it well and following that conversation I doubt you'll think that the model E is a "con."

Having said that, I think a Model D is most likely the right choice for the uses you've described.

They're great machines and you won't regret it. (well, you might near the end of a hard piece, but that feeling will pass )

[Citroen]

Unless you need the extra 15cm (6") of height, the rugged unmovable monitor arm (so you can lift your weight on it), one that's slightly longer and a machine that's built like a Hummer H3 rather than a Land Rover Defender then you do NOT need a model E with PM5.

Buy the D2 with PM5 it's the best ergo for home use.

The dynamic is like a D2 on slides as the mass that moves on each stroke is the ergo rather than the rower rowing it. It's less forgiving to lousy technique but not as easy to pack away and store (there's no frame split unlike a model D or model E).

[RobDMB]

Thanks for all the input. Seems like there is a little bit of mixed opinions as to whether Model D or Dynamic is the way to go (price aside). Leaning toward Model D at this point.

[Bob S.]

Thanks for all the input. Seems like there is a little bit of mixed opinions as to whether Model D or Dynamic is the way to go (price aside). Leaning toward Model D at this point.

Of course. Each one has it advantages and disadvantages, so it is a very personal decision. I have used both the D and the dynamic, as well as the D on slides. My own feelings on these three choices are definitely mixed. My currently choice, the dynamic, was primarily based on its smaller footprint. With no space limit, I would have stuck with the D on slides. While doing some time trials a while ago (after I had bought the dynamic and had sold the D), I had to borrow a grounded D so that the results would count in the rankings. When I still had the D on slides, I had the option of using it as a grounded machine as well. Another point about the footprint is storage. While the dynamic takes up a little less space in use, it is very inconvenient to store compared to a D. The slides are a different matter. Storing them is a pain in the neck and they are a nuisance to set up properly. Ideal in my opinion, if there is plenty of space available, is to use the D on slides for training and to move the D off the slides to a nearby clear area to do time trials. That way the slide set up is not altered. That would require about a 9'x12' area.

[RobDMB]

For weight loss use (as opposed to competition) is there a benefit to the Model D on slides versus just a regular Model D?

[Bob S.]

For weight loss use (as opposed to competition) is there a benefit to the Model D on slides versus just a regular Model D?

For weight loss, probably no difference. Slides were designed to simulate rowing in a boat. However many (including me) are convinced that it also makes it easier on the back. I have heard that in Australia slides are mandatory as a safety measure.

Bob S.

[chrisl]

Thanks for all the input. Seems like there is a little bit of mixed opinions as to whether Model D or Dynamic is the way to go (price aside). Leaning toward Model D at this point.

HI RobDMB, did you decide which one? Worth noting that if you fancy taking part in the annual sprints the Dynamic is excluded (see link below). I'm going to buy a rower in the new year and I'll be going for a brand new D with a PM5.

https://log.concept2.com/challenges/indoor-sprints

Chris

[RobDMB]

Haven't made the order yet but think I am going to go with the Model D (was debating E too but doesn't seem to be worth extra $). I am tempted but the dynamic but it is the unknown versus i've used a Model D before. Although easier on back is tempting too...