The Kettler Favorit is a budget to mid-range hydraulic rower from a manufacturer with a good reputation and years of experience in the fitness world. The Favorit is a pretty solid machine and will be suitable for those who will use it for short periods only. We say this because, like a number of hydraulic machines we've tried, the resistance suddenly drops when the oil in the cylinders warm-up. This is most inconvenient if in the middle of a vigorous work-out when suddenly you find rowing becomes too easy.

For a small rower this machine felt quite solid and seems well made. The seat is comfortable - if you're not on the large size, otherwise you might find it's a bit small. The rowing action is fairly smooth for a hydraulic rower but not as good as the Kettler Kadett in the same category.

The rowing position is quite comfortable but if you're over 72" tall you make find the track a bit short.

The Console/ Monitor
The monitor is the same as used on the Kettler Kadett and has a good sized LCD display and is easy to read. It displays the usual exercise data such as distance, time , number of oar strokes, speed, calories, and heart rate. With a few presses you can set yourself a target of either distance, time or stroke speed and it will beep when you've achieved it. You get an ear-clip that plugs into the console to display your heart rate. Some will find the wire and clip uncomfortable so you may want to buy a separate wrist or cheststrap monitor.

Summary:
The Kettler Favorit is a good buy for those new to rowing machine or you're unfit and need to make a gentle start with a new exercise regime. For ten minutes exercise a day this is a good buy and should last for years with possibly the odd cylinder needing to be replaced. However, if you're an experienced user of rowing machines or are already fit, we believe you'll need to spend more on a better model.

 

  

 

Our overall rating: 60%