You’d love to own a rower, but you just don’t have the space for a full-size unit. HCI solves this problem with the Sprint Outrigger Scull. Compact, foldable and built-to-last, this unit delivers a great workout without taking up half your living room.
While not a perfect machine, this model is a solid choice if you’re looking for something compact and truly portable.
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Features at a Glance
- Piston resistance
- 12 hydraulic resistance levels
- Folding design for compact storage
- Portable
- Commercial-grade cylinders
- LCD displays stroke count, time, calories and total strokes
- Ergonomic seat
- Pivoting footplates allow for natural motion
- Maximum weight capacity of 275 pounds
- Built-in workout programs
The Sprint Outrigger looks nothing like a typical model, and that’s because of its arm and folding design. Rather than a typical handlebar, it has a single bar on each side, which better simulates the upper body movements made with real water rowing.
The folding design of this model also affects its appearance. Most modern models can be folded up, but this model really folds up. The arms collapse to make it so compact, you can take with you on the go – or store it away with ease.
Using piston resistance it has 12 levels to choose from. The resistance levels are pretty tough, which means users of all fitness levels can get a challenging workout from this machine. The only thing we didn’t like was that you had to adjust the resistance level using a dial on each side of the rower. Some other reviewers pointed out that the resistance doesn’t feel the same on both sides, which can be troubling if you’re trying to build strength and muscle with this machine.
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A built-in LCD console displays your stroke count, time, calories and the total number of strokes. Built-in workout programs are also included based on strokes and calories. You won’t be able to monitor your heart rate with this machine, so if you’re going this route, make sure you have your own tracker.
The ergonomic seat is comfortable and the large footplates pivot to move with your foot’s natural motion. If you’re a bit on the tall side, you may not get full extension in the legs when rowing. Most users won’t have a problem with this.
Assembly is simple and straightforward, which is a major bonus as some models can be a nightmare to put together.
Pros
- Ultra-compact and portable
- 12 resistance levels accommodate people of all fitness levels
- Durable design
- High weight capacity
- Built-in workout programs for varied and fun workouts
- Allows for a more extensive upper body workout
Cons
- Resistance adjustment could be better
As mentioned previously, having to adjust the resistance on both sides of the machine can be a chore, and at times, one side feels more difficult than the other.
Despite this flaw, we still think this is an excellent machine. Its compact design is hard to beat. It’s not too often that we see a truly portable unit that can deliver a serious workout. It’s durable and solid, too, with a wide range of resistance levels.
If you’re looking for a compact model that doesn’t compromise on performance, the HCI Sprint Outrigger Scull is an excellent choice.