NordicTrack RW900 Review: Is It Worth the Investment?
Rowing machines have become increasingly popular as a go-to piece of equipment for home gyms, and among the high-end options, the NordicTrack RW900 stands out. Known for its large touchscreen, immersive workout programs, and sleek design, the RW900 offers both performance and technology. But with a higher price tag, is it really worth the investment? In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the RW900’s features, pros and cons, and whether it’s the right fit for your home gym.
Features Breakdown of the NordicTrack RW900
The NordicTrack RW900 is a smart rowing machine that combines advanced features with a user-friendly design. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
1. 22-Inch HD Touchscreen Display
One of the standout features of the NordicTrack RW900 is its large 22-inch HD touchscreen display. The screen provides crystal-clear visuals, allowing users to engage in iFit’s live and on-demand classes, track performance metrics, and row through scenic routes around the world. The interactive display can also swivel, making it easy to follow off-rower workouts like yoga or strength training.
Benefit: The large screen enhances the workout experience by offering immersive training sessions with professional instructors. The ability to adjust the screen angle for non-rowing exercises adds versatility.
2. iFit Compatibility
The RW900 comes with a free 30-day iFit membership, which grants access to a huge library of on-demand classes, including rowing, strength training, yoga, and more. iFit’s live and pre-recorded sessions provide professional guidance and allow you to row through scenic locations around the globe. Additionally, iFit offers personalized workout programs based on your fitness level, ensuring that your workouts are always challenging and engaging.
Benefit: With iFit, users can follow world-class instructors, enjoy diverse workouts, and track progress over time. The variety of exercises available means you get more than just rowing, making the RW900 a versatile fitness solution.
3. Dual Resistance System
The RW900 offers a unique dual resistance system, combining air and silent magnetic resistance. The air resistance system is dynamic, meaning that it automatically adjusts to your rowing intensity—the faster you row, the more resistance you feel. Meanwhile, the magnetic resistance offers 26 levels of adjustable resistance that can be easily modified with the push of a button or automatically through iFit’s live coaching.
Benefit: The dual resistance system gives users a smooth, customizable rowing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, the ability to adjust the resistance levels ensures that your workouts can be tailored to your goals.
4. Ergonomic Design and Build Quality
The NordicTrack RW900 is designed for comfort and durability. It features an ergonomic, cushioned seat that glides smoothly along the track, providing comfort even during longer workouts. The oversized, adjustable footrests and ergonomic handlebar help minimize strain, allowing for better rowing technique and less risk of injury.
Benefit: The well-thought-out design makes it suitable for extended use, providing comfort and proper alignment, which is crucial for effective rowing.
5. Foldable and Space-Saving Design
Despite its premium size and features, the RW900 is designed to fit into smaller spaces. It features a foldable frame with built-in wheels, allowing for easy storage when not in use. This is particularly beneficial for home gym users who need to maximize space.
Benefit: The foldable design and portability make it an ideal choice for those with limited space. After a workout, it can be easily moved out of the way.
6. Performance Tracking and Integration
The RW900 tracks essential performance metrics such as time, distance, calories burned, and strokes per minute. With the iFit platform, users can also track their progress over time, set goals, and adjust workouts based on past performance. The machine is also Bluetooth-compatible, allowing users to connect to heart rate monitors and other fitness devices for a more comprehensive workout experience.
Benefit: The ability to track and analyze workout performance helps users stay motivated and achieve their fitness goals more effectively.
Is the RW900 Worth the Investment?
Now that we’ve looked at the RW900’s features, let’s examine whether it’s worth the investment by assessing the pros and cons.
Pros of the NordicTrack RW900
Immersive, Interactive Experience
The large 22-inch HD touchscreen and iFit integration create an immersive workout experience. You can row virtually through scenic waterways, follow along with professional trainers, and participate in structured workout programs, making each session engaging and fun.
Dual Resistance System
The combination of air and magnetic resistance allows for a versatile and challenging workout. With the magnetic resistance offering 26 levels, you can easily control the intensity to match your fitness level or workout goals.
Foldable Design for Easy Storage
The RW900’s foldable frame is a huge plus for those who need to conserve space. It’s easy to fold up and roll away, making it a great option for apartment dwellers or those with smaller home gyms.
Comfort and Durability
The ergonomic seat, handlebar, and adjustable footrests make for a comfortable rowing experience, while the overall build quality ensures that the RW900 can withstand heavy use.
Wide Variety of Workouts
With iFit, you’re not limited to just rowing workouts. The platform offers strength training, yoga, HIIT, and more, making the RW900 a comprehensive fitness solution for your home gym.
Cons of the NordicTrack RW900
High Price Point
The RW900 is a premium machine with a price tag to match, often retailing above $2,000. For users on a budget or those who don’t need all the high-tech features, it may not be the best value.
iFit Subscription Required for Full Experience
While the RW900 comes with a free 30-day iFit trial, you’ll need to pay for an iFit subscription afterward to access the full range of classes and features. This subscription adds to the long-term cost of owning the machine.
Bulkier Than Some Competitors
Although it can be folded for storage, the RW900 is still a fairly large machine. If space is extremely tight, you may want to consider a more compact rower.
Dependent on Internet Connectivity
To fully utilize the iFit features, users need a reliable internet connection. Without it, you’ll miss out on the live classes, scenic rowing routes, and personalized coaching that make the RW900 stand out.
Who Should Buy the NordicTrack RW900?
The NordicTrack RW900 is best suited for:
Tech-Savvy Users: If you love technology and interactive workouts, the RW900’s integration with iFit, large touchscreen, and virtual scenic routes will provide the immersive experience you’re looking for.
Home Gym Enthusiasts: If you have a dedicated home gym space or are looking to invest in a machine that offers more than just rowing, the RW900 is a versatile option. With iFit’s diverse workout library, you can easily switch between rowing, strength, yoga, and more.
Fitness Fanatics: For users who are serious about their fitness goals, the RW900’s dual resistance system, performance tracking, and professional coaching offer a robust platform to take your workouts to the next level.
Who Should Consider Other Options?
The NordicTrack RW900 might not be the best fit for:
Budget-Conscious Shoppers: If you’re looking for a more affordable rowing machine, there are other high-quality options like the Concept2 Model D or Stamina rowers that don’t require as high of an upfront cost or monthly subscriptions.
Small-Space Living: While the RW900 folds for storage, it’s still a relatively large machine. If space is extremely limited, you may want to look at more compact options like foldable magnetic rowers.
Conclusion: Is the RW900 Worth It?
The NordicTrack RW900 is undoubtedly one of the best smart rowing machines on the market, offering an immersive, interactive experience that combines performance and technology. If you’re looking for a rowing machine that provides engaging workouts, a large variety of exercise options, and robust performance tracking, the RW900 is a great investment. Its dual resistance system, large HD touchscreen, and iFit integration make it stand out from the competition.
However, the high price point and subscription fees may be a deterrent for some users, especially those who are more budget-conscious or don’t need all the high-tech features. In summary, if you’re willing to invest in a premium rowing machine that offers long-term fitness value and interactive workouts, the NordicTrack RW900 is worth considering.