Last Updated on February 12, 2021 by Jeff
Overview:
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5612 Dual Function Rowing Machine with LCD Monitor is one of the more affordable options in this series and has the standard rowing machine features for this brand as well as a few innovations that sets it apart from the others. Using a nylon strap instead of chains or metal pulleys allows this machine to be much quieter during use. There are eight levels of magnetic resistance which are easily adjusted by the turn of a knob. The seat is large and padded for comfort during use, but it is the ergonomic design of the foot pedals that provide the added benefit.
The large, anti-slip foot pedals feature adjustable straps to keep your feet in place during rowing like other machines. However, you can also adjust the pedals and then stand on them to use the rowing handle for other upper body exercises, including bicep curls and upright rows. Additional exercises for the upper body are also possible using the resistance of the machine.
Technical Info:
Dimensions:
- Height: 28”
- Width: 19”
- Length: 86”
- Item weight: 59.5 lbs
- Max user weight: 300 lbs
Features:
- Magnetic resistance adjustable to 8 levels with the turn of a knob.
- LCD monitor to track your progress and help keep you motivated while you row.
- Large padded seat.
- Anti-slip foot pedals serve 2 functions so that you can perform additional exercises without ever having to leave the rowing machine.
Monitor:
- LCD readout shows time, stroke count, calories burned and total count. A scan function allows you to see all of these numbers in succession as you row.
- Uses 2 standard AA batteries (included).
Warranty:
- Frame: 3 years
- Parts and Components: 90 days
Shipping and Assembly:
Free shipping is an option in most cases however if you want your item faster or you need special delivery, you may have to pay for it. Consider the full price of the item plus shipping before you make a final selection.
Assembly is fairly easy with most people able to accomplish it in under an hour. Instructions, tools and all parts are included in the package. All parts are bagged and labeled to make assembly even easier.
What We Love About the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5612 Dual Function Rowing Machine:
The ability to use this machine for more than just rowing is a huge bonus. Rowing is great, but it tends to repetitively work certain muscle groups more than others. By standing on the foot pedals, you can achieve a full upper body workout without leaving the machine, which is great for interval training. For people who fear they would get bored with a straight rowing workout, interval training may be the perfect solution. The trainee rows for a set period at high intensity, stops, and then does a set number of different exercise. For example, the trainee may row for five minutes at level five resistance, stop, and complete ten bicep curls, and repeat.
While this machine does not fold for storage, it is fairly narrow at only 19 inches wide and can be rolled from one place to another with the small transport wheels. Some trainees report that they just stand their SF-RW5612 against a wall when it is not in use.
The nylon strap makes this a quieter rowing machine than others on the market. It also has one of the higher weight capacities, which is another added bonus.
What Isn’t so Great:
Pretty Basic Monitor
The LCD monitor is decent, but it definitely isn’t the most quality motor on the market. Like most rower monitors, it lets you see your stroke count and basic calories burned as well as elapsed time, but that’s about it. Since you don’t enter in your age or weight, the calories burned is nothing but a really rough estimate, and there is no way to determine the distance or any other metrics if you were really interested in keeping a more accurate account of your exercise progress.
The Resistance May Be Quickly Out-Trained
If you are looking to the SF-RW5612 to build strength, you are going to be disappointed. However, if you’re looking for a traditional option for cardio, this is the perfect machine for you. The eight levels of resistance can be quickly adapted to by intermediate to advanced trainees, so there will be little gains in strength. Once you reach the upper level of resistance here, there is not much else to achieve.
Does Not Fold for Storage
While this is not a huge machine, it may be more than some people want sitting in their living rooms. There are wheels for transportation, but they are small and will barely move on carpeted floors. Some trainees report standing their rower up against a wall when not in use, which may work. Trainees with active pets and small children who choose this option should install a strap to secure their rower to the wall for added safety.
How the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5612 Compares to the SF-RW5515
The SF-RW5612 rower is the slightly larger of the two rowing machines, but they both have fairly similar features. Both use the same type of magnetic resistance and both are adjustable to eight levels of resistance. Both have the same basic function LCD monitor, large padded seat and adjustable foot pedals. While the SF-RW5612 is slightly more expensive, it also has a higher trainee weight at 300 lbs versus the SF-RW5515 which can hold up to 250 lbs.
Final Word on the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5612 Dual Function Rowing Machine:
Despite the basic monitor, this is a decent rowing machine with the added benefits of being able to use the machine for additional upper body exercises and for interval training. While it does not fold for storage like other rowing machines, it is easy to move and small enough to be pushed to the side of the room without a problem. As a rowing machine for cardio training and interval training, this is a good option.
Click here to check the price on the Sunny SF-RW5612 Dual Function Rowing Machine on Amazon.