Elite Water Rowing Machine with High Resistance Vertical Tank

After much research, bought this Sunny Phantom SF-RW5910. Very pleased. Definitely would recommend this machine. I believe it is very good value for the price. Pros: Solid. No worrying about my 250 lbs being too much for it. Extremely quiet. I measured with decibel meter 3 feet from the unit. It never gets over 65 db. About as loud as a conversation held across a room. Slightly louder when starting up or stopping rowing because turbulence in water is greater then. Much much quieter than I expected. I can watch videos with Bluetooth headphones at a very comfortable volume. One can easily hold a conversation while rowing. Big enough. I’m 6’4”. There is about 1” to 1 1/2” of travel left to the rubber stop when I am fully extended and toes pointed. The Sunny data says the bar accommodates a 40.5” inseam. If you are taller than me, use inseam measurements carefully: The Sunny info online says you have to measure inseam differently than you would measuring for pants. Measure standing from floor to your hip bone on the side where your leg pivots. Mine is 38”. Tablet holder: A small thing, but very useful. I put my tablet on and put Bluetooth headphones in and watch videos while rowing. Time flies. Smooth: Very smooth action with natural feel. Nylon strap pull. Assembly easy. Comes mostly assembled with tank, handle and pully mechanism already installed. Just put the seat on slider bar (remove and replace 2 screws), mount the feet for the slider bar (4 screws). Put the slider bar on (hand knob, 1 bolt and one pin). Then mount holder for the meter (4 screws). Then mount meter (6 small screws). They provide all tools (allen wrench and screwdriver). Instructions are not intuitive, but assembly is. Took me ~½ hr. Including picture of pieces. Cons: Foot rests/straps: I was a little surprised that the footrests are welded at an angle and don’t pivot. If you don’t like the angle, tough. The heel cups in the foot rests are a bit small for my size 12 cross-trainer shoes and I have to wiggle my feet to get out. Not a great design, but workable. Smaller shoes would be fine. Handle: Not great. Hard plastic. Comfortable enough to hold on to, but wouldn’t be too tough to make this a bit better. Seat: Seat is a bit uncomfortable. Half an hour is fine. Long rows, not so much. Resistance: Resistance is adjusted only through adding or subtracting water. I am coming from home-built rowing machine which had lots of resistance. This is an aerobic machine. Don’t buy it if you are intending to use it to bulk up. I find it fine and very good for an aerobic workout, and I’m plenty worked out after ½ hour of rowing at a natural pace. But the top end is still a little light to my preference at my natural rowing speed. If I row harder and faster, the resistance increases due to properties of viscosity of water, so I can really wear myself into a sweaty mess quickly, but you can’t have large resistance and row slowly. I’m thinking of adding some glycerine to increase the viscosity of the fluid. Meter lighting: Stinks. No backlight. I mounted a small reading light to shine on the screen so I can see it. Meter beeper: Absolutely a joke. Tiny tiny beep that you simply can’t hear. Wheels on seat. I’m not too big a fan. A little cheaply built. They’re fine for now and quietly and smoothly roll, but I expect them to be the first thing that wears out. Neither pro nor con: Meter: Pretty simple, but workable. Alternates every 5 seconds or so between two views: First View: Elapsed time, Strokes, Strokes per minute, Calories, Distance, Pulse (if you have a 5.3 khz strap not included) Second View: Average time per 500m, Total Strokes, Strokes per minute, Watts, Distance, Pulse You can set a parameter (either: time, distance, strokes, or calories) and it will count down until finished. It beeps pathetically when finished. I think too much is made of meters as selling point for rowers. It’s good to watch, but really you row for time, distance or calories, while keeping at a standard pace/wattage. This meter is fine for that. A couple last comments: Several reviews comment about a cracked tank. Mine was not cracked. Inspect first for cracks before removing from packaging. I’m not sure why the word description in Amazon says “black”. The unit is brown/gray as in the Amazon pictures.

I only have a few weeks of use, if any of my opinions change over the long-term I'll update this review. Very good first impression. The rower seems to be well made, solid welds, sturdy frame, and is very stable while I'm using it. I'm about 5'11” tall, and 200 lbs. The computer is functional – I'm not sure how accurate it is, but it gives you the most valuable statistics and you can track your progress from there. This is an important feature as many budget rowers don't provide proper metrics. The seat is pretty good. No complaints. There are much worse seats out there. The pull handle is study and textured for grip. The foot straps seem to be the cheapest element. The plate is welded securely, the actual foot pedals are adjustable and they work – but I see this being the weakest link. The length of the straps are also cut unnecessarily long, giving a small point of contact for the hook-and-loop. Easy fix if one is so inclined. I'm really enjoying the water tank – this is first water rower I've used, and I really like the "whooshing" sound. It's not loud at all and becomes meditative after a while. My house uses well water, not city treated tap water, so I used distilled water to fill the tank. It takes about 3.75 gallons to reach the "max fill" line. I recommend everyone fill it to the max level as resistance is dependent on the amount of force you use when you pull the handle, i.e. don't pull as hard if you want less resistance. I highly doubt anyone will be filling / un-filling to change resistance. Also, deliberately look over the tank for any signs of cracks before completely assembling. It takes about an hour to unbox and put everything together, it’d be a major hassle if your tank had a leak. Who is this rower for? I've used the Concept 2 off and on over the years, that's mainly what I'm comparing this rower to. I recommend this rower for individuals who seek exercise, not necessarily as an indoor trainer for people who actually row out on the water in the real world. The reason I don't recommend this for "real" rowers is because the Concept 2 is the industry standard and any subtleties or computer comparisons you make will be inaccurate. The act of rowing properly is quite technical, so to keep consistent with a team or coach, you should use whatever equipment they’re using. If you’re a lone wolf, I don’t see this machine limiting your stroke. With that said, this rower is perfect for the home gym with individuals looking for low-impact exercise. The build quality is actually pretty decent, it may hold up well at smaller communal fitness clubs. Again, it is completely sufficient for any home gym scenario with individuals working toward fitness goals. Cheap bearings might be a long-term concern with very heavy use, but frame construction is not. So, if you hate running or the wear and tear it does to your joints, this little machine could be a great addition to your home gym. So far, I'm really enjoying it – I jump between this rower and a bike trainer hooked up to Zwift throughout the week.

This is a good rower in terms of motion, design, etc. The computer is basic and works as advertised. My one issue: one of the footstraps broke, just past the six-month warranty. The metal edge on the frame wasn't buffed down properly and it ate through the strap. The only way I can get a replacement is to order a pair of foot pads and straps together - more parts than I need, for $50. That's disappointing. AN UPDATE: Prior to posting this review, I had contacted Sunny's parts department to order the replacement part. From them, I had gotten the answer that I needed to buy the footpads & straps together, as a pair. I went ahead and placed that order. After posting this review, a different customer service unit within the Sunny company reached out to me. That office refunded the shipping on my order (taking the total from about $50 down to $30) and also put an extra pair of foot straps into the order. All of that was delivered, including the extra pair of foot straps, and the refund was applied promptly to my card. They also requested that I update this review, which I am doing now. On the one hand, I appreciate that the company is apparently paying attention to its customers, and they did take some steps to make things right here. They certainly didn't have to do so. So I appreciate the partial refund, and the extra pair of straps. On the other hand, this sets up an unfortunate precedent in which you need to yell at the company (via a negative review) to get attention. I'm also puzzled as to how the customer service office was able to procure an extra set of foot straps when the parts department insisted that they be bundled with the plastic footrest pads. I think there are some things they can work on here that will help them better serve their customers. All in all, this is still a pretty decent rower, especially for the money. I think the foot straps are a bit of a weak link in the design, but the overall motion and the rest of the machine seems solid and smooth. I've certainly worked out on much worse rowers before. If you're looking for a good, reasonably-priced machine (and you've been willing to read this far), this one isn't a bad bet. Just make sure you check the foot straps for wear or tearing before the 180 day parts warranty runs out.

Let me get this out of the way first - because it will save you hours and hours of reading Amazon reviews and constantly second guessing your purchase decisions: DON'T BASE YOUR DECISION OF PURCHASING A ROWING MACHINE ON AMAZON REVIEWS! I spent half a day jumping between different rower models and brands before settling on this one. My mistake? Reading the reviews on Amazon and basing my opinion of a machine I had yet to see on those who have little to no experience with rowing machines. I've found that a large majority of reviewers for workout equipment, are first time buyers with very little knowledge of the product they bought or even how to properly use it. Most of the reviews you read on here are from those who set it up, used it for a few minutes, then sat down to write a review for a product they know little about. So... what to do? Look up the model on YouTube. There are dozens of product reviews from people who are EXPERIENCED with these kinds of machines. They will give you in depth pros and cons, explain the benefits of the machine's features, or what it lacks. Having a visual aid, with someone who knows what they're talking about, ended my search in a matter of minutes, and cause me to settle on this rower. Sure, each company usually has a promotional video to go with their product, but nearly all of their videos are selling something other than the product (i.e. 95% woman in skin tight workout attire and 5% product). Researching these machines on YouTube eliminates all these variables, and gives you what you need: straight facts about the machine itself, given to you by people with experience using them. As for MY review? If you read everything up to this point, you should know where I'm headed with a review. -I've never owned a rower -I've used a couple here and there at a gym -I very little knowledge about rowers BUT -I researched a dozen models on YouTube -The Sunny Health & Fitness Phantom Hydro Water Rowing Machine - SF-RW5910 caught my attention for being within my budget, paired with high praise from those experienced with rowing machines -Shipping was a day late (but I purchased it around the holidays, so a day late was far earlier than expected) -I am VERY much enjoying it so far Here are the things I can tell you that DON'T require experience: -This thing is HEAVY. It arrived in a single box, weighing over 100 lbs. Not too hard to slide around, but if you are going up or down even a single step, get someone to help you move it! -Take your time unpacking the box, and setting each part aside for assembly. -Assembly IS easy, IF you take your time, read the instructions, and don't rush. -I was able to put it together myself in under an hour. There aren't a ton of individual components, as most of it is already pre-assembled. -The workouts I HAVE done have been great! For ME. I felt the whole unit was sturdy, robust, and put together well. But again, this is based on the opinion of a guy who doesn't know a whole lot about rowing machines (or at least didn't, until I researched them on YouTube!) I'm excited to keep using this machine. It's a good workout, and it's the kind of workout where you get out what you put into it. Check out some of the videos out there for this machine. I was impressed with what I found, and I'm sure you will be too.

Primarily I was looking for value and function in the $500 price range for a rower. I had never used a water rower and only used magnetic type at a gym. The Sunny Hydro Rower came in a sturdy box mostly assembled. The water tank and surrounding front frame are already put together. Although I found the visual instructions lacking enough detail, it was not a hard assembly that took about 40 minutes. It would be less if you are less patient. Along the way the only concern was when I unpackaged what they call the meter or the computer. Immediately there was a small rattle and after taking off the battery door and rolling it around a bit, a small screw did appear. I filled the tank as instructed for the first use at about half the maximum. More water means more resistance. I advise starting with the minimum if you are a beginner like me and work your way up as you build strength. Using video training through Apple Fitness I've gone through about 5 workouts of 10-30 minutes each. I find the instructors indication of strokes per minute match up well to the on board meter indicating it is at least pretty accurate. Again, as a beginner following the trainer's guidance on proper technique of 60/20/20 or 60% energy from the legs, 20% from core and 20% from arms, I am feeling a fairly even workout. The water resistance is much better, in my opinion than magnetic and I'm pleased to have gone this route. The only strain I am feeling so far is in my lower back. This could be technique, lack of core or positioning/adjusting with the machine. There are adjustments for foot position, front and rear round rubber screw type feet. One important feature I learned from a video instructor (on YouTube) was to have a machine with full range for the handle position. This machine allows for a return of the handle past the handle saddle/lock. Some cheap machines have the strap for the handle only go as far as your foot position, thus not allowing a full range. I am 6' 1" with long arms so full range was important to me. All the functions, including the meter work as advertised and I am very pleased with the initial quality. The welds look solid and there are no leaks. On the initial uses I see no issues with the foot rests or straps as some have mentioned but we'll see over time. I can see this on most moderate priced machines being something subject to replacement over time. Finally, but importantly, I want to applaud Sunny customer service. After my first few uses I started a ticket on Sunny's site sharing the loose screw from the meter and my concern that over time this could be an issue. The response from an actual agent was within a day and they considered this a warranty replacement and have mailed me a replacement meter/computer. I do recommend this machine for persons like me that want to have a rower, might not be a daily user and are newer to the exercise. I hope to have it for several years of good rowing!

Edit: if you use noise cancelling headphones (mine is the Bose QC45), virtually all the noise this machine makes is erased! Pick a show to watch or a great podcast to listen to! Time flies. I’ve used this several times and I’m extremely happy with the purchase so far! Pros: Frame is rigid, has a commercial quality feel to it. Seat is made for big butts and comfortable, and glides smoothly. Foot holders are good, ignore the reviews about them. Rowing handle is excellent. An inseam of 37” is probably the max. The unit will stand on end, no need to fold it in half. I simply added some foam to the frame where it rests on the floor. There’s a holder for a phone or tablet to watch while rowing. Definitely will support 300 lbs…feels like commercial equipment. Rock solid. Cons: The digital display would be more readable but I don’t even need it. I just decide how long I’m rowing and that’s it. Some say the seat on the track is loud. Imo, it’s like any gym equipment. I wear earbuds just like at the gym. Additional comments: I look forward to using this often. Fill the tank to the max and you decide from your exertion how difficult the rowing is. Exactly the same as real rowing of a boat….how hard it is depends on how hard you pull, not by any setting in the machine. Don’t hesitate to buy this. Imo, it’s near-commercial quality for a consumer price.

Shipment: Faster than I expected. 3 days after my order it sits in front of my door. The box is relatively heavy and large, but still Ok for one normal man like me to move it from the front porch to my garage. Package: Everything is packed in a good place. Impressive. I realized that there are a couple of bad reviews that said the water tank is broken. Mine is good and steady. I would assume that the cracks are caused by the shipping and handling instead of the product itself. The water tank is very strong and protected in the box. So I would say that the chance of a broken tank is relatively small. Assemble: It took me, a single person, approximately 40 minutes to assemble the rower. I start to count after unboxing everything. This is my very first rower and I am not a great DIY guy. It took me a while for reading and learning the instruction manual. I have to say that the manual might contain too much information for the assemble. The real job is quite easy. The manual suggests 2 people do the assembly but I can do that by myself without any issue. The water filling part is a little tricky for me but after I figured out how to use the pump, it played out smoothly. All the tools and parts are provided other than the knife I used to unbox. Moving & Storage: This rower is not heavy, even with the half-filled water tank. The storage mode is Ok, better than nothing. And there is NO security structure of the sliding rack after you lift it up. There is a knob that stops the rack to fall on the ground but it only affected when the rack had already fallen to 3-4 inches above the ground. Functionality: The footrests are very comfortable for me, not like some of the other brands that put your footrests too close to each other. The cozy seat fits my butt quite well. The water sounds perfect and relaxing. The control panel is clear and works fine. Conclusion: Very satisfying purchase. Great rower at a great price. Hope it lasts well.

Final final update 4: if you see the attached video they finally did end up selling the straps 2 1/2 months later. So for 2 1/2 months my foot slipped out of the pedal positions. Once I did receive the straps they were of a very low quality they are not the same high-quality nylon straps the rower shipped with. Final Update3: it’s been three weeks and the straps never showed up. I would highly suggest not buying this as it’s extremely difficult to find straps that fit the foot pads. Once they are broken it’s useless. update2!!! I’m actually moving this review up to a four out of five once again. Sunny health and fitness was more than happy to replace the straps. All I can say is great customer service and I’m very happy with the product once again! UPDATE1: I dropped from 4 to 3 stars simply because the Velcro foot straps absolutely fell apart after six months. This doesn’t render machine useless but it is annoying that you pay this much money and after only six months you have to replace critical critical component. You can see A photo of this in the last picture accompanying this review. Original review: Let me say if you don’t know anything about indoor rowers in my opinion an actual water rower can’t be beat. With this machine you get a smooth stroke from front to back no jerking no easing up. That said if this is your first row you purchased ever you should look up the difference between magnetic, resistance, and water rowers. Is this machine public gym quality, could I take a beating from multiple people a day day after day? probably not. That said for your home gym this is a great value and in my opinion is over built for personal or family use. For me it was extremely easy to fill the tank. They even provide a funnel to put water in and a pump to take water out as well as purification tablets which was a really nice bonus. Two things I saw about Sunny Health and fitness rowers was that the foot pedestal was not welded on properly. I have had zero issue with that they seem extremely sturdy. The other issue I saw on some reviews; people saying it was difficult to read the instructions. I will give them that extremely horrible instructions sent with the rower. That said there aren’t that many parts. I could’ve put this thing together without instructions at all. It took me all of 15 minutes by myself. Plus another 5 to 10 to fill up the tank and I was rowing! So why didn’t I give a five out of five stars? First the foot pedestal is extremely oversized I’m a size 10 in the Velcro (hook and loop) almost doesn’t connect when I strap in tight. (Update I actually didn’t have the strap shifted towards the inside rail enough. This is no issues at all. Leaving this in my review as other have said in reviews it was a problem with the rower. It really is not at all!) My only other complaint is that the digital display is a bit difficult to read. I wish it had a backlit option. I would absolutely buy this rower again and again and again. I hope this review was helpful to you.

Muy bueno, fácil de usar funciona miy bien

Love the water row machine. Priced well for what it is. Easy to set up.

Todo muy bien .. salvo el tiempo de entrega y que tuve que recibirlo en otro domicilio, porque no había entrega em mi área.

I bought this for days I dont feel like running on the treadmill and needed an alternative. I took a point off for assembly because the diagrams in the manual are really small, and I had to use a magnifying glass to see the details. It was easy enough except where the wires to the computer go up the tube, which was really awkward. I spent more time on that than any other part of the assembly combined. After its assembled its a good machine though. Feels solid, easy to fill the water, etc. Be careful with the sizing. I am 6'4" and wear pants typically a 36 inch inseam. After its assembled the end of the stroke sometimes just BARELY touches the stopper. It can come down to if I wear running shoes or not. Its that close. Definitely any taller and or longer leg even by a fraction of an inch I wouldnt be able to use it. Some comments about foot pedals being over sized and they definitely are. I am a size 12.5 and actually have to move the foot rests up, which never happens. The straps barely fasten unless I am wearing running shoes, and there are only so many ways to do these straps up so I deny user error here. I can use the machine fine without the straps however as it does roll back to the start quite easily. I have the tank filled to maximum resistance and it takes me a while to work up a sweat. I am probably a little more fit than the average guy as I had a good workout regime before I bought this, so take that for what its worth. I tried it with the water at half way and maximum resistance and barely notice the difference, although you can tell over a longer session. The computer display is a little tricky to read unless you are in a well lit area, and it would have helped if it was back lit. I would say this is good for what I wanted it for, which was an alternative to the treadmill, however I think I would pass on it if it was my primary fitness machine. For casual home use and a break from the treadmill its fine. UPDATE after my last session on it I noticed when in pulling I sense a bit of feedback, almost a grind or vibration, coming through the grips. It still rows smoothly on the pull and return so its not a big deal, but some people might be annoyed with it. After using it for a couple weeks now I noticed at higher stroke rates, around 20 SPM or so, the resistance seems to fade and there is definitely a dead spot after you return to the catch position and start the next pull. I find the best way to get the use out of this machine is to set a stroke rate around 18 or 19, and work on an explosive stroke, with a slow return for recovery. This seems to allow the water to settle, which you can actually hear, and its ready for another pull. After a month of use I am gonna probably sell it. I just cant get a great sweat on it no matter how hard I try. The faster you row the less resistence there is. I think great for a casual exercise program but if you are trying to burn some serious calories spend a few bucks more on a different machine.

I love it,. Bought is 5 years ago and still going strong