Kettler Kadett Outrigger Style Rower Rowing Machine

I bought this rower because I hate going to the gym. I also have foot problems so I'm unable to jog. I really love the workout I get on this machine. I can watch TV or a video and the time goes by quickly.

The only reason I gave it a 4 out of 5 review was the display panel. I have knocked it off the base on a few occasions. So I just leave it on the floor next to me. Additionally I'm not fond of the ear piece that registers your heart rate. I've had it drop 30 beats for no apparent reason. If they adapted the machine to utilize a Polar heartrate monitor the machine would be perfect.

Regardless, I know I'm still getting a good workout. I also love the outrigger rowing style.

Just a quick note as to how much I love this rower. An outstanding workout, incredible build quality and smooth function. The only thing I'll change (have to figure out how first) is to allow for foot-push to come from the toes/ball of the foot as opposed to the heel. I realize that this isn't authentic rowing form, but I'm more concerned about calf-work.

Before I ordered this rowing machine, I spent a lot of time researching and reading reviews. I must say that much of what the other reviewers report here is correct. As a product, the Kettler Kadett is excellent. It definitely gives the feel of actual rowing. The manual is written from a German perspective - meaning you have to flip through pages to find the English portion. Now I know what the rest of the world feels like. The assembly instructions are fine and no text is necessary. I do recommend you lay out all the parts and become familiar with each. Shipping was - well - less than expected. The product came in 2 days as promised; however, when the UPS man lugged it up to the front door, it looked like it had been chewed on by a pack of wolves. I peaked inside and decided to sign for it. The packing was not great and there were a few dings and scratches. I decided to overlook that given this is an exercise machine and not a piece of fine artwork. You may feel differently. I found 2 parts missing - both of which were key to the functionality. Working with the parts folks (you can find them by Googling for Kettler USA) was fine. It seems like they're pretty accustomed to dealing with missing parts. One might think improved quality control might be considered from the start, but I don't walk in their shoes. In the end, I'm happy with the machine and use it daily without problem. You'll have to decide for yourself if this is the means you'd like to use to acquire it. Without question, the price online is better than you'll find in any store and ordering through Amazon is always easy.

I like my rowing machine. It was kind of hard for my son and I to put together considering the instructions are in German but we managed. It's very sturdy construction.

Upon delivery by UPS, I noticed the box torn and taped at one end. I assumed something would be missing and it was (a nut used to keep the oars open, and in place) so until I get another, the machine is useless.
Next, I when I opened the box, i noticed how poorly packaged everything is. Some cardboard that was supposed to be between the metal parts have shifted and everything was rubbing against each other. Thank goodness there were not too many scratches. Finally, the instructions were for the most part in German with some English, it was easier to follow the illustrations and parts numbers to assemble. Of course if anything can go wrong it will, and the oars are not marked as left or right and fit perfectly on the wrong side! I had to dissasemble to bolts holding the oars, the shocks and move from one side to the other. It seems to be a well built machine, but won't know for sure until I find a suitable nut to lock the arm in place