If you are looking to burn some calories and build some muscle simultaneously, then rowing is one of the best things you can do. This means that you need a rowing machine, but there are dozens, if not hundreds to choose from. One of the most popular brands in the world of rowing is Kettler, a German owned business that has been in the fitness industry for quite some time.
Today, we are going to do a review of Kettler rowing machines, focusing specifically on two of the flagship models, the Kettler Coach 2 and the Coach H2O. These are both high-end and high-quality rowing machines, as is the Kettler brand in general. This is our Kettler rowing machine review, so let’s see what is in store for you if you purchase one of their rowing machines.
How long is a good workout on a rowing machine?
How long a good workout on a rowing machine lasts depends on the goals that you are looking to achieve. First, remember that a rowing machine provides you with a solid full-body workout that will have your muscles burning from head to toe.
If you are going for a basic full-body workout, and you want some of those feel-good endorphins to kick in, around 20 minutes should be fine. However, if your goal is maximum calorie burn and weight loss, then you should aim for at least 30 minutes per day, at least 5 times per week. If however you are engaged in serious cardiovascular training, you want to aim for at least 40 to 45 minutes per session.
Also, remember that if you are looking to build stamina, going for a long period of time using a lower resistance level is recommended. If however, you are looking to increase muscle mass as well, then rowing at high resistance for a shorter period of time is recommended.
What to look for when choosing a rowing machine:
Let’s take a quick look at the main considerations you need to keep in mind when choosing a rowing machine to suit your needs.
The Size
Rowing machines can differ greatly in size. Some compact models, particularly hydraulic rowers, can be as short as 4’. Full-sized models can be as long as 10’ or more. Therefore, you always need to consider your spatial limitations when choosing a model. A full-length model will give you the action you are looking for, but it still needs to fit in the space you have.
The Rowing Action
One of the most important considerations is the rowing action itself. You have hydraulic rowing machines, which are short and cost-effective, but they don’t allow you to fully extend, plus you can’t pull in a straight line, which isn’t great for form.
You also have models that use a flywheel or air resistance. This type of rowing machine is quite smooth and natural, although noisy, plus the amount of resistance produced isn’t always the highest. You then have magnetic resistant rowing machines, which are very smooth. They also provide you with a good deal of resistance, although they aren’t cheap.
Finally, you have water rowing machines, which use actual water to produce resistance. These are often preferred because using real water mimic real-life rowing. This type of rowing machine is ideal for those who are engaged in serious training for competitions. The Kettler Coach H20 is a perfect example of this.
The Noise
If you are rowing at home, noise can also be an issue. Air or flywheel rowing machines are usually the loudest, and magnetic rowing machines can produce some volume too. Hydraulic rowing machines are quiet, but their overall functionality just isn’t great. If you want a rowing machine that is both quiet and functional, a water rower is likely your best bet.
Quality Components
Although we aren’t going to talk about all of the parts on a rowing machine, you do want to go for one that is made with quality components. The resistance mechanism, the seat and rail, the handle, the legs and base, and other such components all need to be considered here. On a side note, one of the reasons why Kettler is so popular is that this brand is well-known for using high-quality components all around.
Where are Kettler Rowing Machines made?
Kettler is a German brand name, and all of their rowing machines are produced in Germany. These rowing machines are produced by fitness industry experts and trained professionals in Kettler manufacturing facilities.
In fact, most Kettler products, not just rowing machines, are produced in Germany. This should speak to their overall quality, as German-made products have a certain reputation for being high-quality.
The Kettler Coach 2 vs the Kettler H2O
To give you an idea of what the Kettler brand offers, let’s take a quick look at two of the most popular rowing machines from this brand.
The Kettler Coach 2 features a magnetic-resistant system that is fully adjustable. This allows you to choose from both low and very high resistance levels, plus the resistance provided here is quite smooth. It closely resembles real water rowing.
It is made with durable components, such as rugged yet lightweight aluminum rails. Most of these machines are made with lightweight aluminum, which is a rather perfect material to use for this purpose. It’s both durable and lightweight. Not only is the frame durable, but also stable, so you won’t wobble or shake while rowing.
The front of the frame features rollers for easy transportation. You can also tip it on its front to store it vertically, therefore making it ideal for tight spaces.
That said, when set up, this is a full-size unit coming in at a full 86” long. We do however really like its fully digital display that has Bluetooth capabilities. All in all, we think this is a great unit to consider. Sure, it’s quite big and pricey, but it’s also a fully functional and very high-quality rowing machine.
If you are looking to closely recreate the feeling of rowing on water, then there is no better option that the Kettler Coach H2O. It comes with a water tank that can hold between 13 and 15 liters. We do like how this feels very much like real-life rowing on water. However, keep in mind that the rowing intensity is not nearly as adjustable as on a magnetic rower like the one looked at above.
The LCD display provides you with all of the information that you need to know about your rowing metrics. However, it also has a very simple one-button design that makes it easy to operate. It only has a single basic workout program, but the point here is to recreate rowing on real water, not to have a variety of workout programs.
Other than that, this is a perfectly fine rowing machine to consider. It’s quite heavy when filled with water, but it still comes with wheels for easy portability, plus it can fold down into a smaller package for easy storage. Moreover, as is the case with virtually all Kettler products, the components are very high-quality and durable.
Pros and Cons of the Kettler Rowing Machine:
In general, Kettler rowing machines can be considered high-quality across the board. There are quite a few pros or advantages that you get with this brand of rowing machines, but not many drawbacks. Let’s take a quick look.
Pros
- Durable and high-quality components
- Made in Germany
- Closely mimic real-life rowing on water
- Most models are foldable for easy storage
- The warranties on Kettler rowing machines are good
- The variety of rowing machines is great
- Trusted brand with great customer service
Cons
- Quite an expensive brand in general
- The full-size machines require a lot of space to use