With its’ funky red and black frame, the Stamina X Rowing Machine is very eye-catching but, as you look more closely, you’ll quickly notice that it’s more than just a good-looking indoor rower.
- Good value for the price
- Not difficult to assemble.
- Visually, it looks great.
- Easily foldable for storage.
- Suited for taller users.
- No preset features or workouts.
- You cannot adjust the resistance settings.
- May need to replace parts to increase longevity.
- Is quite noisy.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Stamina X Air Rower
The Stamina X is often considered a budget version of Concept 2’s famous Model D rower and it’s easy to see why; they share many important features and even look quite similar. Both use large chain-driven fans for resistance and deliver a smooth rowing action through all phases of the stroke and recovery.
However, the Stamina X is much cheaper than the Model D, and for reason. It lacks some of its build quality and features so I would not recommend a straight like-for-like comparison. But if you are concerned about the price then the Stamina X is a good alternative.
Also, consider your fitness goals and requirements. If you are looking to get in a few cardio sessions every week then this rower is more than suitable. If you’re looking to up your fitness game with an intense workout regimen that involves daily or long periods of training then it’s probably better to read one of our other reviews.
Features & Functions
Assembly
Assembly of this rower is pretty easy. Most users will not find it too much trouble at all and can look to have it up and running on average anywhere from 30 – 40 minutes. You can go it alone but of course, 2 hands are quicker than one. Also, some users may find some of the parts a bit heavy so any support should be welcomed.
Stamina will provide you with all the tools you need to put the rower together. Although some users have reportedly had problems with the size of the wrench included to adjust the seat, you may want to have your own at the ready if need be. Personally, I did not have this issue.
Resistance Type
The Stamina X uses a large chain-driven fan to provide plenty of resistance that increases as you pull harder. The chain/fan resistance system was first used by Concept 2 and provides not only a smooth workout but also means you can adjust the workload without stopping your workout; just pull harder for less resistance and harder for more.
Note that there is no damper setting so you cannot adjust the resistance which controls how much air flows into the cage.
Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions – 78.5 x 18 x 29
- Material – Steel frame, metal housing, plastic fan, rowing chain
- Maximum user weight capacity – 250 lbs (113 kg)
- Item weight – 63 lbs (28.5 kg)
- Resistance type – Air Resistance
- Colour – Black/Red
- Recommended use – To improve cardiovascular health. High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
Build Quality And Features
Constructed on a strong steel frame with metal and plastic components, the Stamina X looks and feels solid. This is what you want when performing high-intensity workouts. It has an angled seat rail for easy return which helps create a smooth rowing motion.
Although you cannot set any resistance settings, the fan is quite large which allows for plenty of air resistance, and combined with a durable chain, it’s quite responsive to how hard you pull, therefore automatically adjusting the resistance levels to your intensity.
The Stamina X is quite loud but that is to be expected with an air rowing machine. If the noise disturbs you, put in your earphones or play some music through our speakers. Problem solved.
This rowing machine does not measure your heart rate. If you’re interested in a heart rate monitor I suggest you check out the Polar H10.
Display/Monitor
The Stamina X Air Rower comes with a motivational multi-function LCD monitor screen that tracks distance, calories burned, speed, workout time, total strokes, and strokes per minute. Pretty basic but not bad at all considering the price. Admittedly the display is not in the best of positions but it is a good size and clear enough to read the data to get some feedback whilst rowing.
One function that would be nice to see is the ability to store your workout data. This is probably not a big issue for most users and a trusty pen and paper for recording will work fine. Please note that the readings from this machine are not 100% accurate but if you do record your data frequently then you will be able to see a trend over time which is a great way to measure improvements.
The display will automatically turn itself off after four minutes of inactivity to save the batteries.
Comfort
The rower has a molded seat that I find comfortable enough. I’ve used the rower for up to 30 minutes without any soreness. Other users have stated that the seat is quite small (which I would agree with) and that they have found it to be uncomfortable after long usage.
It’s more likely that you will find the seat uncomfortable if you are new to rowing. Not because the seat is particularly bad but more likely because you are just not used to sitting in that position and rowing for a period of time. Chances are high that you will get more used to it. But if problems persist you can always purchase seat padding or a cushion.
The rower also comes with padded rowing handles and pivoting footplates with nylon adjustable straps.
Storage
Designed mainly with the home market in mind, the Stamina X rower is compact and folds in two, with built-in wheels for easy transportation and storage. Weighing 63 lbs., it is 78.5” long, 18” wide, and 29” high.
Because it folds up easily, you do not need a dedicated exercise area at home; you can wheel it out and unfold it for your workout and then fold it up and put it away again when you are done. Ideal for working out where space is a premium.
Warranty
It comes with a three-year warranty for the frame and 90-day parts warranty. Stamina Products Inc asks that you contact them by phone or by letter if your machine becomes defective.
Please check your owner’s manual that is provided with the product for more specific information regarding the warranty, returns, and repairs. You should also complete the product registration card to activate your warranty.
Price and Value
The Stamina X rowing machine offers good value, especially when compared to the very similar but more expensive Concept 2 Model D. Many users report that they cannot feel any discernible difference between the C2 and the Stamina X which is high praise considering that the Concept 2 Model D rower is the bestselling rower in the world.
I personally can tell the difference and although I like the Stamina X, if I had the choice I would always pick the Concept2 Model D. If you are more serious about rowing and the price is no issue then Concept2 is for you.
Alternative Rowers To Stamina X Air
- High quality, long-lasting build
- Quick and easy assembly
- Fairly high price but good value for your money
- Considered the industry standard
Not much needs to be said about this rowing machine. I’ve mentioned it several times already within this review. It is a great machine and you should read our full Model D review to see what all the fuss is about.
Another Stamina product similar to the X Rower is the 1405 ATS. Another sturdy machine that will get you through any intense workouts smoothly. It does not come with preset features like offerings from Concept2 but it can get the job done and will be an excellent addition to your training regime.
The Stamina Air rower is a great rowing machine for home use. Like the other rowers on this list (and as the name suggests) it uses air resistance with a large semi-open fan. It is built on a strong steel frame designed to be sturdy and long-lasting.
Final Thoughts on the Stamina X Air Rower
If you want a professional-quality rower with a chain-driven fan but are looking for an alternative to a costly Concept 2 machine, look no further than the Stamina X Rowing Machine. It looks good, and delivers a smooth and comfortable workout experience but buying one won’t break the bank.
Stamina X Air Rower FAQs
Is stamina x real?
I had to double-check this question when I saw it come up. I’m not quite sure how this idea that the Stamina X is not a real machine came about but the answer is yes, yes the Stamina X is real and you can purchase it. Check it out on Amazon below.
With its’ funky red and black frame, the Stamina X Rowing Machine is very eye-catching but, as you look more closely, you’ll quickly notice that it’s more than just a good-looking indoor rower.
Stamina X Air Rower
With its’ funky red and black frame, the Stamina X Rowing Machine is very eye-catching but, as you look more closely, you’ll quickly notice that it’s more than just a good-looking indoor rower.
Product Brand: Stamina
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 499.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
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