The Pro Rower RX-750 is a well built, solid rower with a comfortable rowing position, smooth action and well-designed ergonomic seat. It looks great and will suit those with limited space (it folds up into a small footprint - see dimensions below) and the beginner to intermediate rower.

However, if you've used either a Concept2 or LifeCore rower at the gym, this will be a let down. Of course it's around half the price and for that you will get a reasonable machine, but if you're serious about using a rowing machine to get fit, this model has its limitations.

You can certainly get a good workout with the ProRower but if you need the motivation of built-in programmes and progress reports you won't get it with the basic console - see below.

The Console/ Monitor
The monitor is has a lot in common with the monitor on the First Degree Neptune rower in that it's a big disappointment. The LCD screen is large and easy to read but it's the data that we have an issue with. Yes, it does have a built-in heart rate monitor that's compatible with a Polar chest strap (not supplied) but we questioned the accuracy on our model. We compared the reading on the display with another heart rate monitor we know to be accurate and found it was higher. Not a huge problem in itself (and it's probably better than it display an artificially low reading) but you would hope for something that is accurate on a machine costing over $600.

It displays the usual workout data such as time, distance and split times, but we also think the stroke rate is inaccurate. There are no functions such as a race boat, or the ability to store your workout data. This isn't a problem if you just want to row to get into shape, but if you're serious rower or need targets to motivate you, then this is a problem.

Summary:
An attractive, well-built rower that is, on the whole, good value for money and a good choice if you're a casual to intermediate rower. If you've more ambition to row for the years to come, or a serious rower, you'll be better off spending extra on a Waterrower, if you particularly want a water resistant rower, or the Concept2 or Lifecore R100 which are easily the best home machines around.

  

 

Our overall rating: 75%