NordicTrack RW600 Smart Rowing Machine | High-Powered Workouts

Bring an unmatched, interactive personal training experience home with the NordicTrack RW600 Smart Rowing Machine. Unfortunately, not everyone has room in their home for a rowing machine. Thankfully, the RW600 smart rower can fold into itself for compact vertical storage that makes rowing accessible to everyone – no matter how much space they have.

Participate in high-powered cross-training workouts designed to move your entire body. Your iFIT Trainer (membership required) will incorporate pulse-pounding exercises that use your body weight and fitness equipment for a well-rounded workout.

Stream your choice of Studio Class or Global Workout directly to your rower’s immersive 10″ HD touchscreen. Swipe to see your stats, browse the iFIT Library, and more! However, the use of the iFIT app is not necessary, though. Once the free 30-day iFIT family membership expires, you don’t have to renew it.

The NordicTrack RW600 smart rowing machine features a custom-molded seat designed to easily glide along a steel rail with a maximum user weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg). As a result, every stroke will be smooth, quiet, and consistent. In addition, lock your feet into position and create a stable foundation for every stroke, thanks to adjustable foot straps.

Learn more in my complete review below!

Product: NordicTrack RW600 Smart Rowing Machine

Price: For a great deal on this rower, merely go here to Amazon.com

Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 2 years / Labor 1 year

My rating 8/10

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure

Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 87L x 22W x 42.4H inches (221L x 56W x 108H cm)
• Assembled weight: 120 lbs (54 kg)
• Supported weight: 250 lbs (113 kg)
• Footrests: Adjustable, with straps
• Resistance: Air (10 levels), magnetic (26 levels)
• Console: 10″ diagonal, WiFi, Bluetooth, iFit enabled
• Warranty: Frame 10 years / Parts 2 years / Labor 1 year

RW600 Frame Construction

The NordicTrack RW600 smart rowing machine features a steel frame coated with a durable gray-black paint finish. Of course, the device also integrates several plastic parts. The most notable ones are the base tube end caps, the adjustable sections of the footrests, the drive and resistance casing, and the console casing.

The rower is relatively large. With all the parts assembled, it is approx—87″ (221 cm) long and 22″ (56 cm) wide. Also, like any other rowing machine, it is advisable to allow some clearance at the rear and on each side for easy access and correct usage.

The rower’s rail is pretty long. The applicable user inseam range is 45″ (114 cm). Therefore, users up to 6’6″ (198 cm) can execute the rowing motion correctly with a complete leg extension. In addition, the rail and the seat have a maximum user weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg).

The RW600 has a folding feature. A joint between the rail and the front section of the frame allows you to fold it from its middle. With the frame folded, the machine is approx—37″ (94 cm) long and 44″ (112 cm) high.

In addition, the rower is pretty heavy. Its net weight is approx—120 lbs (54 kg). Therefore, two people should carry and assemble the rower. However, it is easy to move once completed as its front has transport wheels.

Seat and other parts

The NordicTrack RW600 smart rowing machine has a seat similar to that of the Strongick rower. Its top section is approx. 12″ (30 cm) wide, providing plenty of contact surface. In addition, it also has contours to prevent the user from sliding backward during rowing.

The seat frame is steel-made and has three sets of wheels. Two sets slide on top of the rail, while the third one slides under the edges of the top rail plate for extra stability. The wheels incorporate ball bearings for a smooth motion and a rubberized outer layer of reduced noise. Also, the highest point of the seat is 14″ (35.5 cm).

The machine comes equipped with a set of durable thermoplastic material adjustable footrests. In addition, they have heel guards and straps for improved foot stability. Unfortunately, the footrests do not pivot on their axis; they have a fixed design. They come pre-attached to the frame and sit at approximately 45 ° to provide optimal positioning for your feet.

The machine’s pulling handle is a simple, straight bar. Unfortunately, it does not have any resistance adjustment controls or pulse sensors. However, it has rubber foam sleeves for an improved grip. Furthermore, it connects to the machine’s resistance system through a heavy-duty, braided nylon strap, highly resistant to stretching and abrasion.

RW600 Resistance system

The NordicTrack RW600 smart rowing machine has dual resistance systems. One is fan-based, similar to the one on the Concept2 Model E rower; the other is digital magnetic (motorized). In addition, both resistance elements integrate into the front unit of the machine.

The unit’s air resistance system consists of a large fan connected to the pulley system. For instance, when you pull the handle, this flywheel fan rotates inside its casing generating resistance.

In addition, the case also has a 10-level damper element. For example, this allows you to adjust the airflow that enters and exits the fan casing for more or less air resistance.

The air resistance system provides a dynamic response to the rowing motion. Therefore, the resistance increases if you pull the handle faster. For instance, this is similar up to the point of rowing a real boat through the water. Therefore, it is quite a plus for users who want to train on a professional level.

The rower’s magnetic resistance consists of a small metallic flywheel, a magnetic brake, and a servo motor. The motor makes the connection between the brake and the console.

Therefore, when you adjust the resistance from the console or when an iFit program makes resistance adjustments, the magnets change their pull on the metallic flywheel, increasing or decreasing the load.

Furthermore, since the magnetic resistance is motorized and has a tablet-like console, it requires an external power source. A 100-240 VAC, 50-60Hz, 1.5 A / Output 12.0V @ 4.0A power adapter with 12 ft. (3.6 m) of cable comes with the rower.

The magnetic resistance offers 26 levels. The lowest levels don’t add too much load to the resistance provided by the fan. However, levels above 20 can provide a challenge even for the most seasoned users.

Console

The console included with the NordicTrack RW600 smart rowing machine is pretty similar to one of the RW900 model. However, its display is smaller, only 10″ in diagonal. It has touchscreen technology and is usable like any other tablet or smartphone. In addition, it also has a highly intuitive, easy-to-use interface.

The console is iFIT enabled and requires a WiFi connection to sync with your online iFIT account. As you start it up, it will prompt you to create an iFIT account (if you don’t already have one). The machine comes with a 30-day free iFIT family membership.

It’s also important to note that the console does not have pre-installed apps like Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video, and you cannot install any (at least not for now). However, future updates may include this feature.

The iFIT app allows stream live and on-demand workouts and has an extensive database of workout videos. It also offers the possibility to row or exercise in various places, enabling you to track your progress online, compete with other users, create your program routines, and more.

Furthermore, the use of the iFIT application is not necessary, though. Once the free iFIT membership expires, you don’t have to renew it. You can use the rower in manual mode at any time and adjust the resistance from the 1-24 controls on the console.

The console shows various workout metrics, including time, distance, strokes, total strokes, strokes per minute (SPM), heart rate, and calories burned. There is also a workout summary feature. The heart rate function requires a Bluetooth HR chest strap. Unfortunately, this accessory does not come with the rower.

In addition, the console integrates a set of speakers so you can connect your tablet or phone via cable to it and listen to your favorite music with better sound quality.

RW600 Assembly and Maintenance

The rower comes almost completely assembled. Therefore, you only need to unfold it and add the seat and the console. The manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions, and all the necessary tools come with the machine. Consequently, the whole task shouldn’t take more than one hour of your time.

For maintenance, keeping the rower clean, especially the rail, is advisable to prevent any damage to the seat’s wheels. You can vacuum the fan’s casing if it accumulates too much dust without taking it apart. The internal parts should not require any lubrication or any other type of maintenance.

Pros

• Solid construction – can support users up to 250 lbs (113 kg);
• Folding frame with attached handles;
• Aesthetic design;
• Transport wheels on the front base bars;
• Long rail – the machine can accommodate users up to 6’6″ (198 cm);
• Ergonomic seat for optimal comfort;
• High seat (14″) for easy entry and exit;
• Adjustable footrests with heel guards and straps;
• Air resistance for a dynamic response – 10 levels;
• Digital magnetic resistance – 26 levels;
• 10″ iFIT enabled smart console with WiFi connectivity;
• Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rides, workout planning, and more via iFIT;
• 30-free iFIT membership trial;
• Multiple workout metrics;
• Bluetooth connectivity for wireless HR chest straps;
• 2″ digitally amplified speakers integrated into the console;
• AUX port for headphones;
• Easy to assemble;
• Excellent warranty;
• Little maintenance is required.

Cons

• The base bars do not have adjustable levelers;
• Once the free membership expires, iFIT requires a monthly subscription (currently $15).

NordicTrack RW600 Smart Rowing Machine Summary

The NordicTrack RW600 is a rowing machine made for home use. It has 26-level digital magnetic and 10-level air resistance systems. In addition, it features a sturdy folding frame with a long rail, adjustable footrests, and a 10″ iFIT-enabled smart touchscreen console.

Furthermore, it’s a machine for users of all levels, great for a full-body cardio workout. Moreover, it’s not exactly the most affordable but offers excellent value for the price.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. Would you please speak up if you have anything you’d like to share on the topic or any opinions about my website? I look forward to your comments, questions, and the sharing of ideas.

Please remember that you should consult your physician to determine if you have any medical or physical conditions that could risk your health and safety or prevent you from using the equipment properly. In addition, your physician’s advice is essential if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level.