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It's interesting how exercise machines are starting to become game input devices and online class portals. Peloton obviously deserves a lot of credit for popul
by beloch 6y ago
It's interesting how exercise machines are starting to become game input devices and online class portals. Peloton obviously deserves a lot of credit for popularizing the idea, but the hardware required to do similar things outdates Peloton.
e.g. Pretty much any Concept2 rower you see in a gym or home that has been made in the last couple decades has a monitor that can provide realtime data to a computer via USB. I have one of these in my home that is older than Peloton but still connects to a computer just fine. If you actually have a Concept2 rower so old that it doesn't have USB, you can always upgrade the monitor (Concept2 sells upgrades).
The hardware has been under our noses for a long time, but it seems like we're only just now starting to make decent software to make use of it, although I'd say rowers are still a bit behind at present. It does seem like an under-served market.
- wj 6y agoHow do you like the Concept2 and rowing machines in general? I would prefer a treadmill but I don't have a good space for one. Do you get a decent cardio workout with it?
- nradov 6y agoYou can certainly get a good workout on a rowing machine. Most of the cheaper brands aren't very durable but Concept2 is solid. If space is an issue, there are treadmills with decks that fold up.
- ar_lan 6y agoConcept2 rowers make for amazing workouts. Great cardio, and it's truly full-body. I love mine. Granted, I love rowing too though.
- beloch 6y agoFolded out, a rower is probably a little longer and skinnier than most treadmills. Concept2's do come apart in the middle for storage and they're light enough that moving them around isn't a big chore. There's a reason why Concept2's are used by gyms, for training by Olympic rowers, and also for indoor rowing competitions. They're indestructible. I've had one for about 15 years and all I've done is oil the chain and clean the rail. Every treadmill I've had gave up the ghost after a year or two of regular use. The quality of workout you get with a rower is fantastic. It's great cardio and works a lot more muscle groups than a treadmill. Doing HIIT workouts on a rower is highly effective. Two caveats: 1. It is possible to hurt yourself if you row with poor form. Take the time to learn how to row properly. 2. When you start, you will get blisters. Then you will develop calluses. If you don't want calluses on your hands, stick to running.