Any comments on Omega Magnetic or Kettler Kadett piston rowing machines?

Question

Any comments on Omega Magnetic or Kettler Kadett piston rowing machines?

Answer 1

Kettler Kadett is actually pretty decent for its price. It mimics a natural rowing motion nicely and it is very quiet when in use. It's popular among people who enjoy light home workouts and sometimes more athletic rowers.

The Cap Barbell Omega Magnetic Rower is a few hundred bucks cheaper and not as well made as the Kettler Kadett IMO, but if you're just using for a light workout, it does its job.

Answer 2

Hi Frank!

I'm a fitness professional and agree that rowers are a great form of aerobic exercise. The Kettler Kadett rower (at $599) is high quality, has smooth seat action, and advanced electronics (including pulse with an optional chest belt), but the piston technolgy is an old technology (that will rquire piston replacements over time), the resistance settings are manual (on both sides), it does not fold, and it's footprint takes up a lot of floor space (due to the wide offset hydraullic arms). For comparison, the Omega COR130 rower (at $499) is not quite as high quality, has smooth seat action and advanced electronics (without a pulse feature), plus it's a magnetic rower with super smooth center pulling action, there are 16 levels of electronically controlled resistance, it folds easily, and it's footprint is small & narrow (due to no hydraullic arms).

However, there may be a better choice (than the 2 units above) and the rower that the majority of my clients use is the Performance Fitness R80APM rower (at $499), which is of very high quality with no known warranty repair issues. It's the same unit as the BodyCraft VR100 rower (that sells for $699), but with different paint & decals. For $100 less than the Kettler, the Performance rower has smooth seat action and advanced electronics (including pulse with an "included" chest belt), plus it's a magnetic rower with super smooth center pulling action, there are 8 levels of manually controlled resistance, it has a center mounted fan vent, it folds easily, and it's footprint is small & narrow (due to no hydraullic arms).

As far as where to find the Omega or Performance units, you'll get great service at the lowest prices by buying on-line. A2Z Fit (link & phone below) was the best on-line Performance and Omega dealer out there. I've worked with A2Z many times in the past for my clients. You'll get fast Free delivery, extra discounts, financing, and no sales tax (except when shipping to PA). Also, they're customer service oriented, knowledgeable about the products they sell, and willing to answer any questions you may have. Get in touch with A2Z Fit. I'm sure they can help you out... I hope that's of benefit to you!