Peloton Rower vs. Concept 2 Rower; A Comparison

Hi all,

You know I love spinning but I am here today to talk about rowing.  Rowing is a highly effective, addictive and engaging full-body workout that has gained immense popularity in recent years. With the rise of home fitness solutions, the Peloton Rower and the Concept 2 Rower have emerged as two leading options for rowing enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore the similarities, differences, and unique features of these two rowing machines to help you make an informed decision based on your fitness goals and preferences.  If you are looking for advice on Peloton Rower Alternatives, click here to see my earlier post:  Top 10 Peloton Rower Alternatives.

The Peloton Rower combines high-quality hardware with immersive digital content. Designed to provide an engaging and interactive rowing experience, the Peloton Rower offers a sleek and compact design that fits seamlessly into any home gym setup.

The Concept 2 Rower, regarded as the industry standard in rowing machines, has established a reputation for its exceptional performance and durability. Known for its air resistance mechanism, the Concept 2 Rower offers a realistic rowing experience that closely simulates the sensation of rowing on water. Its sturdy construction and ergonomic design make it a favorite among professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

1. Peloton Rower:

 The Peloton Rower features a smooth and quiet magnetic resistance system, offering a wide range of resistance levels to accommodate users of all fitness levels. It provides a consistent and reliable workout experience, ensuring minimal wear and tear over time. However, some users may find that the magnetic resistance lacks the dynamic response and “on-the-water” feel of air resistance.

2. Concept 2 Rower:

 The Concept 2 Rower utilizes an air resistance system, which adjusts based on the user’s effort. This provides a more dynamic and realistic rowing experience. The flywheel design generates a gentle “whooshing” sound, simulating the sound of rowing on water. The durability of the Concept 2 Rower is unparalleled, with many units lasting for decades, even under heavy usage.

1. Peloton Rower:

   The Peloton Rower’s key strength lies in its integration with the Peloton App and ecosystem. With a large, adjustable touchscreen display, users can access a vast library of live and on-demand rowing classes, led by world-class instructors. The immersive content and real-time metrics tracking keep users motivated and engaged throughout their workouts.

2. Concept 2 Rower:

 While the Concept 2 Rower does not come with a built-in screen or preloaded workouts, it offers compatibility with various fitness apps and devices. Users can connect the rower to their smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth or a smartphone cradle, allowing them to access a wide range of rowing apps and platforms. This flexibility gives users the freedom to choose their preferred digital experience.

The Peloton Rower offers a diverse array of rowing classes through its app, catering to different skill levels and fitness goals. From high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to endurance workouts and technique-focused sessions, users have access to a wide variety of classes led by experienced instructors. Additionally, Peloton’s extensive content library covers other fitness disciplines, providing a well-rounded workout experience.

   As a stand-alone rowing machine, the Concept 2 Rower does not offer preloaded workouts or a dedicated content platform. However, it provides access to a vast community of rowing enthusiasts who share training plans, challenges, and virtual races. Several rowing apps, such as ErgData and

CrewNerd, offer comprehensive training programs and tracking features that can be used in conjunction with the Concept 2 Rower. These apps provide a wealth of workout options, including interval training, distance-based challenges, and customizable training plans.

1. Peloton Rower:

   The Peloton Rower is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring an ergonomic seat, adjustable footrests, and a smooth sliding rail. The seat is padded and contoured for optimal support, ensuring a comfortable rowing experience even during longer workouts. The handlebar is also ergonomically designed, reducing strain on the wrists and allowing for a natural grip.

2. Concept 2 Rower:

   The Concept 2 Rower is renowned for its ergonomic design, providing a comfortable and efficient rowing stroke. The seat is molded to support proper posture and minimize discomfort during extended rowing sessions. The handle is designed to mimic the feel of an oar, allowing for a comfortable grip and optimal hand positioning. While the seat and handle are generally comfortable, some users may find the rowing motion to be more intense on the lower back compared to the Peloton Rower.

1. Peloton Rower:

   The Peloton Rower is available as part of a package that includes the rower itself and a subscription to the Peloton App. The subscription provides access to a wide range of rowing classes and other fitness content. However, it’s important to note that the Peloton Rower is at a higher price point compared to some other rowing machines on the market.

2. Concept 2 Rower:

   The Concept 2 Rower is sold as a stand-alone machine, and its pricing is generally lower compared to the Peloton Rower. Additionally, there are no ongoing subscription fees required to access workouts or content. However, users may choose to invest in additional accessories such as smartphone holders, heart rate monitors, or rowing apps, which may incur additional costs.

1. Peloton Rower:

   The Peloton Rower requires minimal maintenance, with occasional cleaning and inspection of the machine’s components. The subscription-based model ensures regular software updates and access to new content. However, the long-term durability and lifespan of the Peloton Rower may be influenced by the technological advancements and updates made by the company.

2. Concept 2 Rower:

   The Concept 2 Rower is renowned for its durability and longevity. The machine’s simple design and robust construction contribute to its exceptional reliability, making it a favorite among commercial gyms and rowing clubs. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the chain, is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Both the Peloton Rower and the Concept 2 Rower offer unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. The Peloton Rower excels in its integration with the Peloton App and its immersive content, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a connected and interactive rowing experience. On the other hand, the Concept 2 Rower’s air resistance system and renowned durability make it a go-to option for rowing purists and those looking for a reliable machine that can withstand rigorous use.

Ultimately, the choice between the Peloton Rower and the Concept 2 Rower depends on your priorities, budget, and desired user experience. Assessing your fitness goals, preferences, and long-term aspirations will guide you in selecting the rowing machine that best aligns with your needs. Whichever option you choose, incorporating rowing into your fitness routine is a fantastic way to achieve a full-body workout and improve cardiovascular fitness.

Happy rowing!

Beth

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