Model D first, settled into a natural SPM around 22. HR slowly climbed and was in the mid to high 130's at 30 minutes. Total distance = 6126m. Rowing curve was less smooth, no cliffs but some jagged edges. Obviously a newby but certainly trying to row smooth as seen in youtube video's and using the force curve on the PM.
Changed to Dynamic, SPM increased on average to around 26, about 4spm higher. The higher stroke rate felt no harder than 22 SPM on model D, just natural to that machine. In general, HR was in the same range but a little (as expected) cardiac drift to 142 bpm at the end. Again, just focused on technique & perceived exertion level and just letting distance land without aiming. Force curve was smoother & slightly longer. Total distance = 6123, a total of 3 meters less for 30 minutes.
Differences for me...Dynamic seemed 'easier' on my body. The perceived effort was not easier, it just seemed to reward technique with less punishment to my knees, hips & lower back. Workout was equal to the D, no harder & no easier. HR was in the same range as the D. The lack of sliding back & forth on the rail also seemed more gentle to my body overall, like getting the same workout but more gentle doing it. I also like that the Dynamic seems to reward technique. Seems like I have better technique on it due to this and it's rewarding to see a smoother force curve on it.
Model D seemed to reward leg muscle input more. If I were going for a timed race or distance, model D would be my go-to choice. I might 'feel it' more afterward but for myself, I think that slightly more distance can be covered when going for a 2k to 1 hour time. Beyond one hour, I might choose the Dynamic to be a little more gentle on this aging scrawny body. Either way, won't be breaking any records...The D is definitely quieter than the Dynamic which makes it 'sound' smoother. My wife likes the D better because of the lower noise level.
My primary activities are running & triathlons. Rowing seems like a good activity to compliment these or just on it's own. When we acquired the second rower, the plan was to determine which one we preferred & sell the other. Based on the strengths of each, looks like we may be the proud parents of both
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). I jumped on it and still no regrets.