The Rowbike vs. Concept II- ERG The Indoor Rowing Machine
Many of those in pursuit of health and fitness have discovered the excellent benefits derived from the Concept II indoor rowing machine invented by Dick and Peter Dreissigacker. The indoor fitness machine has provided one of the best ways to attain a full-body workout in a short amount of time. From developing endurance to controlling weight, the Concept II indoor rowing machine has proven itself as worldwide success story. Concept II Website.
While some health and fitness benefits derived from the Concept II and the Rowbike are similar, there are some important differences between the two machines.
Favorable Aspects of Concept II vs. Rowbike
- The biggest difference between the Concept II and the Rowbike is that the Rowbike is a moving, outdoor machine.
- This contrasts directly with the Concept II, which is both stationary and typically used indoors only. Because of its outdoor functionality--like the bicycle--the Rowbike requires a certain amount of balance.
- Like a bicycle, there is a natural learning curve that takes beginners about 30 minutes before they ride confidently and with finesse.
- Also, the Rowbike requires steering in order to successfully negotiate the pathway or road that it is following. Being stationary, the Concept II does not require any steering.
- Similarly, the Rowbike’s outside functionality limits its use in those regions where extreme weather conditions are a factor. To its favor, the Concept II can be used year round.
Favorable Aspects of Rowbike vs. Concept II
- Both the Rowbike and the Concept II integrate a smooth, full body motion of rowing.
- However, the Rowbike stroke differs from the Concept II stroke. The difference may be likened to variation in movement associated with an inline skate versus an ice skate. In other words, the Rowbike can serve as a viable cross-trainer for avid scullers. However, there are subtle differences to be aware of in terms of the angle of the stroke, the movement of the Power Lever and negotiation of steering while moving.
- As a moving exercise machine designed for outdoor enjoyment, the Rowbike is subject to path and road gradient changes. This allows for more variety, and thus more cruising time than the Concept II. On the Concept II, one is constantly rowing without taking a break.
- Equally as important, the outdoor experience of the Rowbike is a more invigorating experience than that of the Concept II. This is because the Rowbike is moving through space. The Rowbike user enjoys the rhythm of movement, the unparalleled benefits of fresh outdoor air, and the stimulation of a changing environment.
- The monotony of the Concept II also results in user fatigue much more quickly than the Rowbike.
- The Rowbike has gears which work in a similar fashion to the traditional bicycle. This means that the Rowbiker can change gears and utilize the benefits of resistance in motion. Most Concept II products require establishing the resistance prior to rowing. This setting cannot be altered while the row is in process!
- Concept II requires that your feet be strapped down. The Rowbike requires no foot strapping.
- The width of the Rowbike’s rowing bar demands more comprehensive use of different muscle groups. The wider grip, for example, affords a more concentrated effort from the lateral muscles. The reverse grip isolates the hard-to-target biceps. The Concept II features a close grip of the pulling bar, resulting in less varied muscle use.
- The Rowbike fits on a standard bicycle rack, which makes it easy to transport. The Concept II, in contrast, is not built for frequent transportation.