With a real water reservoir, the Stamina 1445 Wave delivers a workout that’s as close to real rowing as possible. Natural water resistance and a dynamic, accurate monitor make this machine one of the most affordable water models on the market.
Features
- WAVE water resistance
- Dynamic monitor
- Siphon included for easy filling and removal of water
- Molded seat
- Ball-bearing rollers
- Textured, padded handlebars
- Transport wheels
- Foldable
The Stamina 1445 Wave uses the power of water to help you get a challenging, full-body workout every time. Available at a mid-range price, this model offers a number of great features.
Assembly
When it comes to assembly Stamina are normally clear with their instructions and I would hope so with the number of units they have on the market. The 1445 was no different and it was relatively straight forward and I had it ready to go in 30 minutes.
The only thing that slightly annoyed me was that they don’t include any batteries for the monitor. I know it is only a minor issue and did have batteries in the house, but I do think it is a bit tight to not provide everything that is needed to have it up and running.
The box is quite heavy when it is delivered so I do recommend that you get someone to give you a hand to get it into the house. The last thing we would want is for you to hurt your back before you have even started rowing.
All the tools required to complete the assembly are provided so you won’t need to worry about dusting off your own tools off. The process went as follows:
- Bolt the rear stand to the long rail.
- Slide the seat on to the long rail and then attach the short rail to the long rail (no idea why the rail is in two pieces).
- Attach the rail to the main frame.
- Fix the meter post to the main frame and insert 2 AA batteries into the monitor.
- Connect the wires for the monitor.
Even though it was fairly pain free, there doesn’t appear to have much thought out into the assembly of their equipment.
Wave Resistance
Wave Water Resistance is what makes this different from magnetic resistance machines or air. A built-in water tank allows for natural water resistance – just like what you would experience on the open water.
Water offers unlimited levels of resistance, so this machine can help users of all fitness levels progress. The harder you row the greater the drag that will be created on the paddles in the water tank making you work harder. This drag forces you to keep pulling hard if you wish to maintain the pace.
One mistake that people often make with water resistance is that they assume if they put more water in the tank it will increase the resistance. This isn’t quite true as it basically creates the feeling of rowing a heavier boat out on the water.
Quality
While this type of resistance is heavy. A durable, sturdy frame is needed to ensure that it lasts.
For some reason the seat rail on the 1445 is split into two sections and is fixed together during the assembly process. I don’t understand why they have had to do this as other manufacturers seem to be able to ship the rail in one piece. If you happen to be shorter you may even feel the joint as you roll over it on the seat.
With that being said, the frame does feel strong and has a weight capacity of 300 lbs so will be able to accommodate most users.
Something that I noticed while reading the user manual is that they say the strap may become frayed and will need replacing. This must be an issue they have commonly to have included it so I would have thought they should do something to fix it. I have seen a few complaints about this issue on amazon.
Other similar designed models use a similar strap but they must have designed the drive process better as they don’t seem to have any complaints about the strap fraying. This may be a case of “you get what you pay for.”
Dynamic Monitor
The easy-to-read monitor allows you to keep track of the following metrics:
- Time
- Distance
- Stroke count
- Calories burned
- Strokes per minute.
The display is easy to use but it is quite basic. You can set target values for distance, time, count and calories. It will count down from the values you set so that you know when you have completed your goal.
For a water resistance unit I was expecting a bit more from the performance monitor and this isn’t exactly cheap. It would have been nice if it at least had a few pre-programmed workouts and a pulse count for heart rate workouts which seem to be standard on most models these days.
Smooth, Comfortable Rowing
A pair of pivoting footplates and adjustable straps keep your feet securely in place while offering a wider range of motion throughout your workouts. Quite often people seem to have problems with the footplates but I haven’t noticed anyone having any such issues with this particular model.
The molded and wide seat allows for a comfortable workout, while the ball-bearing rollers deliver smooth movement. But as I said earlier if you are on the shorter side you main notice the joint where there is a connection in the rail.
The rowing handle is textured and padded to prevent slipping and allow for easy gripping. Even when sessions get intense, you never have to worry about your hands slipping off.
Adjustable Endcaps and Folding Frame
To ensure that you stay level, the machine offers built-in, adjustable endcaps. Just turn the dial to adjust. So, if you do have a slightly uneven surface then you can level it up so that it doesn’t rock.
In addition, there is a folding frame, so you can store the machine away in between uses. Simply twist off the pin, and lift the beam up toward the water reservoir and then secure in place. This is handy if you don’t have enough space in your home to dedicate a large area to your exercise.
Finally, a pair of built-in wheels allow you to transport the machine wherever you please. Even when the reservoir is full, the wheels make it easy to move the Wave to a corner or closet.
Warranty
The 1445 comes with a limited warranty, it has a 90-day parts warranty and 3 years for the frame. I think that for a water resistance model this should be a bit longer as they are trying to compete with the higher end models with the 1445 who have better warranty’s than this.
Pros
- Water resistance allows for a challenging workout
- Folds up for easy storage
- Built-in wheels make this machine easy to move
- Monitor is easy to read
- Durable frame provides years of use
Cons
- Heavy
- Rail in 2 sections
- Batteries not included (Stamina being tight)
- Strap can fray
- Monitor is basic
Conclusion
I do love water rowing machines as they are almost therapeutic to use and there was nothing major about the 1445 I didn’t like. However, when you look at some of the other machines for a similar price I don’t think you are getting the same value for money.
If you are looking for a water resistance unit then I recommend you go for the real thing as I get the impression it will be cheaper in the long run as the quality is so much better with the WaterRower models. In addition, you get a great performance monitor, 1000 lbs weight capacity, can be stored upright and with an exceptional build quality.
Still, the 1445 Wave does offer a great workout, and is one of the more affordable. But I recommend biting the bullet and splashing out a bit more money and going for the real thing, like the WaterRower Gronk M1.