Lifecore R100 Commercial Review

The LifeCORE R100 is a gym quality rower with a unique resistance system and advanced features that only high-end machines can offer.

The commercial quality makes it virtually maintenance-free, quiet and smooth.

What Makes the Model Unique?

Two things set the R100 apart from other models: an advanced monitoring system and a unique resistance system.

Advanced Monitoring System

One of the R100’s standout features is its advanced monitoring system, which is comparable to the Concept 2 PM5.

The blue, backlit LCD screen makes it easy to view your stats at a glance in any lighting situation. The monitor displays all of your most important workout stats, including calories burned, total strokes, strokes per minute, meters rowed, watts, 500 meter split time and pulse.

The monitor is compatible with Polar heart rate monitoring products, and a chest strap is included (something most other models don’t offer).

Not only can you view your stats on the monitor, but you can also choose from one of the many built-in workout programs. In total, there are 15 preset programs and four heart rate control programs. The monitor can store data for up to four people, so the whole family can track their progress.

The R100’s monitor runs on four C-batteries, but you can also plug it into the wall using the AC adapter.

Air and Magnetic Resistance

At its core, the R100 uses air resistance, but also has a built in a magnetic resistance system, similar to the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5623; to take your workout to the next level.

There are 16 levels of magnetic resistance to choose from, which – when combined with the air resistance – really make for a challenging workout. No matter whether you’re just getting started with an exercise routine or have been rowing for years, the R100 will help you progress to a higher fitness level.

The R100 uses pure air resistance at Level 1, but Level 2 and beyond uses magnetic resistance. The fan still provides quiet and smooth rowing action.

One other feature we like: the cool air vent.

The cool air vent will give you a nice breeze as you row, so you stay cool during your workouts. Staying cool can actually help you row for longer because you’re not overheating.

Features and Specs

• Ergonomic handles and seat; pivoting heel support
• Adjustable cool air vent
• Solid steel flywheel/fan
• Aluminum frame with solid steel support
• Weight capacity: 600 pounds
• Silent drive system

Monitor Features

• LCD blue backlit monitor screen
• 16 levels of magnetic resistance
• 4 heart rate control programs and 15 preset workout programs
• Compatible with Polar heart rate monitor products (chest strap included)
• Displays: strokes per minute, calories, total strokes, total time, meters rowed, watts, pulse and 500 meter split time

Dimensions and Storage

• When open: 92″ x 19″ x 36″
• When folded: 52″ x 19″ x 67″

The foldable design makes it easy to store away in between uses. It also, has a built-in, quick-release lock below the frame that makes it easy to fold.

When you’re ready to store the machine, simply unlock the frame, and fold the rail. The built-in transport wheels will make it easy to move it wherever you want.

The R100 takes up about half the space lengthwise when folded up.

Warranty

• Lifetime warranty on the frame
• For residential use: 5-years parts; 1-year labor
• For light commercial use: 2-years parts ; 90-days labor
• For full commercial use: 1-year parts

What We Love

With the R100’s commercial quality and advanced features, there’s a lot to like. If you’re looking for a model that will give you years (probably decades) of use and help advance your fitness level, the R100 fits the bill.

This is built to last, and the commercial grade belt requires no maintenance, so you can continue enjoying smooth, quiet rowing.

Air and Magnetic Resistance

The R100 has both air and magnetic resistance, so you get a truly challenging workout. The resistance level is adjusted electronically through the monitor, so you can easily choose the right level for your workout.

As mentioned previously, Level 1 is all about air resistance. The harder and faster you row, the harder your workout will be. But once you move up to Level 2, the magnetic resistance kicks in. The flywheel still works to keep noise to a minimum and each stroke as smooth as possible.

Multiple Workout Programs for Variation

Boredom is the death of motivation – and eventually, the death of your routine. It will keep you motivated by giving you multiple workout programs to choose from.

There are 15 preset workouts available and four heart rate control programs. With that many workout programs, you can do a different program every day for almost a month.

One of our favorite programs is the is the heart rate control program, which helps keep you in your target range. Using the chest strap, you can keep tabs on your heart rate and automatically adjust the resistance level to keep you in the right range.

We like the interval training program, too, which allows you to set up time intervals and distance. Interval training, or HIIT, is one of the most effective ways to burn fat and extra calories.

Foldable for Easy Storage

The R100 takes up a lot of space when it’s in use, but that’s common with any good models. In fact, you want to have a big footprint, or you might not be able to perform a full stroke.

If you have limited space in your home, you may think twice about this model – it is 92″ long, after all. But once it’s folded up, it takes up nearly half the space.

Underneath the frame is a locking mechanism that allows you to easily fold up the unit in between uses. A set of caster wheels allow you to move the machine wherever you want. Most people prefer to tuck it away in a corner.

Ergonomic Design for a Better Workout

The R100 was ergonomically designed to make your workouts feel more natural and comfortable. It’s a lot easier to keep going and keep pushing yourself when you’re not dwelling on how much your hands hurt or how your feet are starting to cramp.

The handle is ergonomically designed for a more natural grip, and the 10-degree band allows to perform each stroke using your natural arm and hand position. By keeping your arms and wrists in a natural position, you’ll get a better workout and will prevent early fatigue.

The footrests are also designed to complement your body’s natural alignment. The footrests are adjustable to foot sizes, and have separate heel supports. Heavy-duty nylon straps allow you to strap your feet in for a more secure workout.

Chest Strap Included

The R100 comes with a chest strap that allows you to monitor your heart rate as you exercise. Most models, even high-end models, don’t come with the strap, which means you have to spend more money to keep tabs on your heart rate.

With the R100, you get everything you need for a complete workout – including monitoring.

Air Cooling Vent

The R100’s air cooling vent helps you stay cool when you’re exercising. As you row, the fan spins and generates cool air. The vents push that cool air outward, so you stay cool and can keep pushing yourself without overheating.

What Could Have Been Better

Is the R100 perfect? No. Every model has its flaws, and this model is no different.

Heart Rate Monitor is Off at Times

The only real complaint was that the heart rate monitor can be off at times. Bad batteries or improper use of the strap can cause inaccuracies in the monitoring. The good news? When the strap is off, it’s usually only off by a little.

The R100 is heavy, and you’ll probably need some help getting it inside and assembling it. But you can expect that with any high quality machine. Also note that you will require a 6mm Allen wrench for assembly. You can find the assembly instructions and other useful in formation in the owners manual.

Our Final Say

If you want a rower that will give you challenging workout, has multiple built-in workouts, is built to last and is backed by an industry-leading warranty, the R100 is it.

With a maintenance-free belt and durable design, this machine could easily last a lifetime with proper care. And LifeCORE’s customer support is always helpful when you need them.

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