Concept2 Forum

I want to know how the pulling resistance of a Dynamic compares to the static ones. I've used the D/Es at a gym for a long time but I've had back surgery so between that and space requirements I'm considering getting a Dynamic. My only use would be for general fitness, I'm not a rower and am not interested in all the technical differences but am curious as to how the resistance in the pulling motion feels compared to the static ones that I've used. I've read a few posts that said something about the feel being somewhat "sloppy" in the initial pull at the catch. I'm not sure what that actually means, the static ones always seemed to engage immediately without any "slop" when I began pulling.

I just want to make sure I'll get essentially the same benefit ( aerobic as well as muscular ) out of a workout on a Dynamic as the static ones I've used.

The way the flywheel creates drag is exactly the same. The main difference with the dynamic is that you're not shifting 75Kg+ up and down the rail for each stroke. The dynamic will punish bad technique more.

I have had a D for a few years, and just picked up a dynamic used since I want to lower the stress on my body. I'm middle aged and inconsistent it my erg usage due to travel and seasonal sports which makes me prone to doing too much too soon when I get back on it. Slides were too much space. The dynamic seems to reduce the tendency and consequences for bad habits such as a jerking catch, excessive forward or backward range. The aerobic workout is still great and requires a bit more coordination and attention to get a solid catch, but when you do the motion is fine. I suspect with a months training I'll have made a good transition be putting the D up on craigs. I'm having trouble getting fast interval splits as my ROM is definitely reduced. If injury avoidance is a big priority dynamic or slides is a fine way to go.

Reference the range of movement issue: I have purchased a used dynamic from OUBC which came with a 2 cm spacer to lift the seat. Feels much easier to get up to front stops and makes set up closer to seat to feet height for real on water rowing

I have used both but prefer D/E. To me, the stationary erg is better for longer rows and I get easier into the long, rhythmic zone. I find that (lower) back pain can best be dealt with by doing plenty of functional core work. At age 52 I do at least 20min a day and static stretching on top after rowing/running or strength/weight training. Of course, first get clearance from your doc or qualified PT.

Chiming in with my .02 worth, for what that's worth. Have been rowing a C2 Dynamic rower since early January. Last weekend bought a used C2 model D. For me, seems like the D responds better to 'mashing' and force (I can't say 'brute force' until I get some 'brute') resulting in faster times. 2k time on Dynamic was 8:56. 2k time on D (equal drag checked) was 8:41. The D is also a little quieter and, in the long term, lower maintenance.
The Dynamic seems to reward finesse & technique with being slightly more gentle on my problematic lower back & knees. Both give a great workout and will, depending on effort/distance, max out my HR.
I'll eventually only keep one but will take a few weeks to make the decision. I want to compare over some time & number of workouts rather than by one short effort. Should be fun! If anyone else out there has tried both & made a decision, it would be interesting hearing about your experience & impressions.

I have been using the Dynamic for 3 months in 2013 and sold it thereafter. Though I liked it for the reasons said above I do prefer the model D/E as it "feels" better to me. I keep working on my technique and regular core/strength training and so far no trouble with my lower back or knees above what you would expect for a middle aged man with an office job.
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