diff --git a/Personal/Resources/Gear/Rowing Machine.md b/Personal/Resources/Gear/Rowing Machine.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f784b9e --- /dev/null +++ b/Personal/Resources/Gear/Rowing Machine.md @@ -0,0 +1,55 @@ +# Rowing Machine + +For indoor cardio when weather is too bad for running. + +## Resistance Types + +| Type | Feel | Noise | Maintenance | Price | +| ------------- | ------------------------- | ----------------- | ------------- | -------- | +| **Air** | Dynamic - harder = faster | Loud | Low | Mid-high | +| **Magnetic** | Consistent resistance | Quiet | Low | Mid-high | +| **Water** | Natural, smooth | Moderate (swoosh) | Tank cleaning | High | +| **Hydraulic** | Choppy, limited motion | Quiet | Piston wear | Low | + +Air or magnetic recommended. Hydraulic feels unnatural. Water is nice but pricey. + +## Key Selection Factors + +- **Rail length** - Check if it fits your height (>185cm needs longer rail) +- **Folded dimensions** - Most fold to ~120-140cm upright +- **Monitor** - Basic: time/distance. Better: pace per 500m, watts, HR connectivity +- **Build quality** - Weight capacity as proxy for sturdiness +- **Noise** - Air is loud, magnetic is apartment-friendly +- **Garmin connectivity** - Nice to have for Forerunner 965 integration (see below) + +## Garmin Forerunner 965 Connectivity + +The Forerunner 965 supports ANT+ FE-C (Fitness Equipment Control) for rowing machines. However, in practice only the **Concept2 PM5** monitor properly supports this protocol. + +- Concept2 PM5 connects as a "Smart Trainer" sensor +- Logs: pace, power (watts), distance, strokes, SPM +- Alternative: ErgIQ app from ConnectIQ store + +Budget rowers (including Domyos) do not broadcast ANT+ FE-C data. You can still manually start an indoor rowing activity on the watch and get HR/time, but no stroke data sync. + +**Conclusion:** Garmin connectivity is another point in favor of Concept2 if upgrading later. + +## Options Considered + +| Model | Type | Price | Notes | +| ------------------ | -------- | -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- | +| Concept2 RowErg | Air | €900 new, €600+ used | Industry standard, holds resale value | +| **Domyos 120** | Magnetic | €250 | Entry-level, foldable, returnable at Decathlon | +| Budget marketplace | Various | €100-150 | High risk of poor experience | + +## Decision + +**Domyos 120** - Sweet spot between cheap enough to experiment and good enough to not ruin the experience. If rowing sticks after 6+ months, upgrade to Concept2 and resell the Domyos. + +Try in-store first if possible - seat comfort and rail smoothness matter. + +## Links + +- https://www.decathlon.nl/p/roeitrainer-120-opvouwbaar-vliegwiel-van-4kg/301442/m8501452 + +#fitness #cardio #rowing #gear #exercise