The Stamina X Water Rower is a compact rowing machine that uses water resistance to simulate the feel of actual rowing. Unlike other full-sized water rowers, it places the water wheel below the rower instead of on end to save space.
Dynamic water resistance on the Stamina X Water Rower simulates the feeling of real-world rowing. The smooth motion of this type of resistance provides a great full-body workout. Suppose you want to increase the resistance; row harder. Ease off, and the resistance will ease with you. You can add or remove water from the tank to change the baseline resistance.
For tracking your progress, the Stamina X Water Rower features a multi-function fitness monitor that tracks calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance during your workout. Use the scan mode to cycle through each of these metrics. In addition, the included wireless HR chest strap transmitter allows you to monitor your pulse.
Rowing is a practical, low-impact, total-body workout that builds strength and endurance, burns calories fast, provides effective cardiovascular exercise, helps reduce stress, and is relatively easy to do. So. if you have minimal space to devote to a traditional long rowing machine, check out this cool new Stamina X Water Rower.
Learn more in my complete review below!
Product: Stamina X Water Rower
Price: For a great deal on this rower, merely go here on Amazon
Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 90 days
My rating: 8.5/10
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure
Details & Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 63L x 20W x 37.5H inches (160L x 51W x 95H cm)
- Assembled weight: 74 lbs (33.5 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Frame: Steel
- Footrests: Pivoting, with straps
- Resistance type: Water
- Fitness Monitor: Time, count, distance, calories, pulse, Scan Mode, goals
- Warranty: Frame 3 years / Parts 90 days
X Frame Construction
The Stamina X water-resistance rower features a frame made of steel tubing. Its rail and seat are durable enough to support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg). All the steel parts in its construction are double-coated with corrosion-resistant and chip-resistant paint. The colors used are black for the gliding rails and front bar and red for the base frame.
This Stamina rower has a different frame design than most other rowing machines, with the tank placed under the main rail. Other models have their water tanks placed at the front, taking considerably more space lengthwise.
The Stamina X is only 63″ (160 cm) long and 20″ (51 cm) wide. However, its frame does not have a quick-folding design like other models. You can still fold its front section that holds the console over the main rail, but you will have to remove the two screws that secure it into its usage position.
It is possible to store the machine vertically on its rear base. Unfortunately, the manual does not recommend vertical storage, though.
The machine’s rail is approx. 40″ (~102 cm) long, and the distance between the two-seat stoppers is approx 36″ (91 cm). Therefore, considering that the seat offers 36″ (91 cm) of travel, the machine comfortably accommodates users up to 6’4 ″ (193 cm) with no problem, promoting a correct and complete leg extension.
The fully assembled unit is relatively heavy. It weighs approx 74 lbs (33.5 kg). However, this weight delivers a lot of stability. The bases have rubberized pads, improving the unit’s grip on the floor. Also, the rear base of the rower has two small wheels that facilitate its relocation.
Seat & other parts
The Stamina X Water Rower features a padded seat with a contoured surface that provides optimal comfort and a correct rowing form. It also has a highly adhesive surface, preventing the user from sliding off it during rowing.
The seat base is steel-made; it integrates six wheels, four above the rail and two under the railway. The metallic side sections of the seat base conceal the wheels to improve safety. In addition, they integrate ball bearings for smoother seat movement and a longer lifespan.
The seat’s top is approximately 14″ (35.5 cm) wide. Also, considering the water tank is under the rail, the seat sits higher than other machines. Therefore, it provides easier access for users with specific disabilities or the elderly.
The Stamina X water resistance rower comes equipped with two large footrests made of nylon. In addition, they feature heel guards and adjustable velcro straps to provide maximum stability for your feet during each workout session.
They also have a pivoting design. In other words, they can slightly tilt on their shaft during each stroke, allowing you to adjust the position of your feet correctly throughout the rowing motion.
The rowing handle is a simple straight bar featuring rubber foam grips for extra comfort. It’s attached to a heavy-duty, abrasion-resistant nylon strap. Thus, the unit’s drive system doesn’t need any lubrication. Also, the belt generates considerably less vibration than a chain, especially when rowing faster.
X Water tank & resistance system
The Stamina X rower integrates a polycarbonate water tank, similar to some other rowers. Its exact total capacity is not specified, but considering its size and diameter, it should be between 3-4 gallons. It has six water levels marked on its side and should not overfill past its 6th level, considered the maximum filling point.
The water tank has only one chamber, not two, like the First Degree Fitness rowers. Therefore, it does not have a resistance adjustment dial, and if you want to adjust the overall resistance, you will have to add or remove water manually.
The tank has a 3-blade impeller that spins into the water when you pull the handle. The resistance level generated is related to the water level inside the tank. Therefore, if you want the maximum resistance possible, you should fill it up to its 6th marking.
Like most other water resistance rowers, the Stamina X generates a dynamic response during rowing. Differently, the faster you pull the handle, the more resistance you will get. This variable resistance type is only specific to water and air rowers. Full-magnetic or hydraulic rowers offer constant resistance.
Fitness monitor
The fitness monitor included with the Stamina X is not highly advanced. Unfortunately, it does not have preset programs, nor does it has online connectivity. However, it features a large LCD that tracks time, distance, stroke count, calories, and pulse. In addition, it has a Scan Mode, which rotates all these metrics, keeping each on-screen for 6 seconds.
The distance shown is in meters. The machine does not have any pulse reading sensors. However, a wireless HR chest strap comes with the rower. If you’re wondering, the HR receiver’s built-in monitor operates at 5 kHz. So, any 5 kHz transmitter should work with it.
The fitness monitor is easy to operate. However, it requires two AA batteries, which do not come with the machine. It starts when you row or push any of the three buttons: Set, Mode, and Reset.
The Set button allows you to enter setup mode to select a goal value for any workout metrics. The Mode button allows you to choose any of the displayed parameters or set the Scan Mode. And finally, the Reset button clears all the values on the monitor to zero.
X Assembly & Maintenance
This Stamina rowing machine comes pre-assembled. You only need to unfold the front bar and the front base, lock them into position, add the footrests, the seat, and the fitness monitor, and fill up the tank.
Consequently, it shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes of your time. An essential toolkit for assembly and a water-filling kit comes with the machine. In addition, the manual provides precise assembly instructions.
For maintenance, it is advisable to add water purification tablets into the tank periodically (Sodium Dichlor 60%). However, these do not come with the machine.
The tank requires draining if stored for more than one year. Also, periodically checking the machine for any loose or broken parts is advisable.
Pros
- Sturdy steel frame – 300 lbs capacity;
- Space-saving design;
- Transport wheels on the rear base;
- Large, padded, and contoured seat;
- Pivoting footrests with adjustable straps;
- Water resistance for dynamic response and a natural rowing feel;
- The fitness monitor comes included;
- Goal setting functions for all the workout metrics;
- Tablet holder included;
- Wireless HR chest strap included;
- Assembly tools come with the machine;
- The pump and funnel for filling up the tank with water come included;
- Reasonably easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance is required;
Cons
- Batteries for the fitness monitor do not come with the machine;
- Water purification tablets do not come with the rower;
- The fitness monitor does not have any preset workouts;
- The fitness monitor does not have a time/500m function.
Stamina X Water Rower Review Summary
The Stamina X is a water-resistance rower featuring durable construction and a space-saving design. In addition, it comes equipped with a fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, strokes, calories, and pulse. Like any other rower with a fluid resistance system, it provides a dynamic response that simulates a boat’s rowing through the water.
It’s perfect for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, stamina gain, and weight loss. And finally, it offers an excellent price/quality ratio.
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.
Your review of the Stamina X Water Rower does seem fairly complete in working out the whole body. The machine appears to meet the needs of someone serious about getting in shape. As we have not had a rower before, do you think this machine is a good investment for new home gym owners? We have always relied on a gym and instructors when trying a new piece of equipment.
You also referred to this rower as being compact. Is this compact in the room it takes to have it, or is the description given regarding the limited features it offers? Our space is not huge, and we do plan to be soon sharing this equipment with our young teens. Is this model with the water-resistance even the right choice for us? Would it be as well as a conventional model? Thanks for your opinions, Sami
Hi Sami, thanks for your interest in the Stamina X Water Rower. This rower would be a good fit for home use. It’s compact in the sense that it doesn’t take up much space and can be stored standing up vertically. As for being the right choice for you, that would be a personal choice. I like the water rowing machines myself. Have you ever used a rower in a commercial gym before? Did you like using it? Was it air resistance or magnetic resistance? Based on what you know, you’ll have to make what you think is the right choice for you.
All the best!
Stamina X Water rowing machines are an excellent alternative to traditional workout equipment such as indoor exercise bikes and treadmills. What sets these machines from other equipment is that they deliver a full-body workout. That is to mean, you can replace several gym equipments with a water rower. Thanks for the thorough review.