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We can't emphasize this enough so we'll say it again: the Kadett is the one and only piston machine that works as a full-size rower. If you're a taller user or you don't want to compromise your workout quality BUT you don't have the room for a big rower this is your machine.
Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
from NJ on 6/22/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This machine was relatively easy to put together and is very easy to use. It's really quiet which makes it a perfect workout while watching TV. It's a little too large and heavy to store so try to pick somewhere to permanently place it.
This machine was delivered quickly and in good condition right on my front steps.
from Pismo Beach, CA on 6/9/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Very well designed and engineered product. I have owned cheaper rowing machines before and the pivots and bearings always wear out. This machine has excellent bearings and pivots that are replaceable if required, but appear sturdy enough to last a long time. Went together without any problems, there are English as well as other language instructions. You do need to be somewhat familiar with metric hardware (helps if you work on a foreign car). At first I was leary of the cap nuts until I realized these have integral nyloc fasteners inside the nuts so they won't vibrate loose. Nice touch!
Product is not perfect. The foot straps are very cheap and have plastic buckles that break easily. I broke one synching up for my first trial. Too bad a 10 cent part should ruin the impression of this otherwise excellent product. Use some metal buckles! What do they cost, another $.10? I did call Kettler for some strap replacements and they were very responsive in sending out another set.
The packaging by Kettler needs some improvement, as the heavy parts were banging against each other during shipment. There was some minor cosmetic damage on a few parts, but the high quality powder coating held up well.
In summary a well built product and worth the money.
Product was shipped and delivered quickly. Box was pretty beat up when I got it, and parts inside were not protected well from abrasion and contact with each other. Some of the parts had some dings in them, but that did not bother me enough to have the product shipped back.
from Alabama on 5/13/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Its great.Especially in the morning to get all the night kinks out.
I had two small problems with the computer and both times after talking to a real person the new parts came to my home within four business days.
I do recommend Kettler highly.I've owned three made in China cheaps, thats why I owned three-- Cheep.
I have my rower in front of the tv and first thing in the morning I'm on it for fifteen minuets Not all do it this long every day but when your watching the news on it time flys.
from Alabama on 4/15/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I have a little TV in front of machine.I start when news starts in morning 30 min. I'm done. Once a day. [...] When I read the reviews some complained about no English,it was in English in my book along with seven others it was under the GB heading (Great Britain). [...]Love IT!!! P S I'm 57.
from New-York on 4/8/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Nice machine, good value!! great total workout!
don't go for any other boring machine... this one feels like the real thing... I dreamt of this machine for years and don't even found it in really expensive Gym like EQUINOX...
(You may need some special gloves)
from Birmingham, AL on 1/25/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I love this machine for general fitness. It is very sturdy and I'm overall impressed with the machine itself.
It does take up a lot space when in use, though.
Both my husband and I have used it and it seems to work great for both of us.
from Boerne, TX on 1/23/2010
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
64 years old and I am using it to keep my stamina and body tone and hopefully increase my wind.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Buffalo, NY on 12/9/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I have found this machine to be ideal for someone like myself who wants a serious workout. The heavy base and outrigger design make it extremely stable, even under hard use. The easy-to-adjust resistence feature allows me to decide on every kind of workout from long and steady to short and hard. It is very quiet, so I can play music or the TV at normal sound settings. Assembly takes time and focus, but is not difficult -- especially if you keep a photo of the assembled unit in front of you.
from St. Charles, Missouri on 10/6/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The Kadette Rowing machine works smoothly and with a natural rowing motion. The tension adjust easily. I haven't quite mastered the computer yet but that does not impact use. I did have someone help me assemble it -- a little daunting at first.[...]
My delivery was prompt and the product arrived without damage. However, I was afraid it would not be usable given the condition of the box -- almost torn in two (then taped along the way) and the one end had been torn open and not taped. The contents had shifted about (almost like they had fallen out and been stuffed back in with random cardboard jammed in) and I held my breath until I laid out all the pieces. Everything managed to stay in the box and was later assembled with no mishaps or missing pieces.
from San Jose, CA on 6/17/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This is in general a good product, although some improvements could be added. I would like to have some wheels at one end so that one can easily put it vertically and move it to a storage place.
from Mansfield, PA on 4/26/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
My ten-year-old son put the machine together for me. When he was done, there were extra parts laying on the ground. It turns out these were the tools! You have to love German engineering, they just think of everything!
I wish I had purchased one of the rubber floor matts sold separately, as the machine wobbles a bit on my carpeted living-romm floor. I would suggest purchasing a matt if you are going to be using the machine on a carpeted surface.
The machine is extremely well-built. My house is tiny, and I was concerned about space, but it fits just fine. However, because the machine is so solid and sturdy, it's quite a job to move it, so it's not one of those "fold-and-store" kind of rowing machines.
The motion is extremely smooth and extremely quiet. If you live in an apartment building and are concerned about how much noise a treadmill might make, you'll never have to worry about that with a rowing machine. You could exercise at 2am and no one would know.
This was absolutely the perfect choice for me.
from Ft. Worth, TX on 4/25/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Well-constructed machine, took about an hour to assemble using my own tools, the assy tools that came with it were pretty rudimentary, I don't recommend trying to use them. The right rowing arm has some distracting slack at the beginning of the backstroke, it would be helpful if the assembly guide and user guide were also in English, otherwise I like the machine very well.
from Texas on 4/24/2009
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It is a good way to exercise but the heart beat monitors does not work and, it is hard to read the computer information; the plastic cover add to much glare or perhaps the background color doesn't help
from Ft. Worth, Tx on 4/4/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I use the product to supplement aerobic and weight training, adds versitility to my routine and really gives me both flexibility and cardio.
Set up took about an hour, it really would improve customer satisfaction if set up instructions were English.
from Salt Lake CIty on 3/27/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I am a regular exerciser, use lots of different kinds of equipment, but always come back to rowing for the one aerobic activity that provides the most benefit. This Kettler is the best piston type rowing machine I've ever used. It is a little costlier than other machines in its class but it is much quieter and smoother than the other machines. I also enjoy the realistic motion of the "oars." The data box turns on and off automatically w/ use, and there is a pause feature if you have to stop for a few minutes but I just use it to keep time. There are more expensive machines based on different mechanics but the rowing motion w/ this machine comes closest to the real thing of all the machines that I've used. I can envision myself sculling down the Potomac River...if I have fun, I will use it more! Right? It does have a large footprint when in use so keep that in mind if your space is limited. Assembly is tedious, not difficult, out of the box, the instructions are not the clearest and nuts and bolts are metric but you can figure it out from the diagrams. The parts all seem to be made to last. 5 STARS, but I don't know about the perfect part, nothing's perfect.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Georgia on 1/27/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
We use this rower because I needed a low impact machine related to a knee replacement and my wife wanted to keep fit. We prefer oars over cables and the Kadett fit our needs perfectly. This machine gives us a great cardio workout without utilizing much space. Even though the instructions are in German, one only needs to pay attention and look at the pictures to put it together. Excellent customer service from company.
from Seattle, WA on 1/27/2009
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Setup/Bad: product is a little awkward to setup - an instruction with one large complex picture and explanation in many languages simultaneously. Setup/Good: Instruction contains all numbers of replacement parts for future order from Kettler USA.
Usage-Bad: Ear-style heart rate monitor is not very precise. Replace by belt-style from Polar etc! All monitor dimensions are metric (meter, Joule instead KCal etc.).
Usage-Good: The best available product for all who like piston-style rowing. Very good quality, very precise and sturdy.
delivering was in time. After setup a special screw was missing but Kettler USA support delivered it within 2 days.
from Chimacum, WA on 12/26/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Very impressed with this machine. Any story you may have read about difficulty in set up are over-stated. Sure you need some time; but, all in all, it was a snap to put together. Highly recommended. Quiet, easy to put away. STRONG! [...]
from Detroit, MI on 12/8/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I bought this rowing machine when my treadmill was out of action waiting for a new motherboard.
I liked that the Kettler is basically mechanical. The electronics are just advisory displays, counting strokes and time. Any outage would not stop a workout. I also like the idea of mixing in a more total body cardiovascular workout from time to time, alternating with the treadmill.
For years I've used motor driven treadmills and steppers. These pace the exercise so there is no need to pay attention to the speed - I can watch TV or just daydream. The rower lacks such machine pacing. I solved this by using a piano metronome. Soon it became natural to match the start and end of each row with the beat.
The full body motion of the rowing machine definitely gets the heart pumping. I reach target pulse more quickly than on the treadmill. The rowing effort is actually highest when first starting the workout - the resistance of the rowing arm dampers reduces as they get warmer. So I go half-speed for a 5 minute warm-up period, after which the resistance pretty much levels out. Be aware that the dampers can get very hot by the end of a 20 minute session - keep kids away.
At first I used a dolly to wheel the machine to a closet between workouts. But my wife didn't mind the look of it in the middle of the rec room floor, so we keep it there. It does have an attractive sculptural form.
Overall, the machine is smart, well though-out, smooth and solid. Have had no electronic or mechanical problems at all.
from Acworth, GA on 12/7/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Excellent product for overall fitness, only problem is the squeaking during use
Delivery was prompt, product in excellent condition, easy set up and use. Sent an e-mail to customer service from the web site but got absolutely no response regarding the squeaking.
from Niantic, CT on 11/22/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Difficult to set up - minor parts missing - no directions for use of monitor.
Excellent workout - adjustable resistance on pistons a great feature - movement of arms works more muscles than traditional rower
from Philadelphia, PA on 11/20/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Great rower, most use I've gotten out of any exersize machine, but I just broke my second set of footrests in two years.
from greenville, sc on 11/18/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Great for compact spaces, good workout. Only cons would be noise and hard to get on and off of.
from San Francisco, California on 11/16/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Wonderful, sturdy, quiet, a truly great workout. But a bit hard to assemble and the directions could be a easier to understand.
from Seattle on 11/15/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This is my 3rd rower in over 30 years (wore the others out) and has the most realistic rowing motion and is very quiet. [...]
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Vermilion Oh on 10/5/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This is a very well built machine. I've been a tool and diemaker for 30 years and I know quality when I see it. This is it. [...]was fairly easy to assemble.[...]
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Charleston, SC on 10/5/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This rower is such a nice piece of equipment, I can't find anything that needs to be improved. I use it almost every day for thirty minutes and i actually look forward to the time. The handles move like real oars instead of being back and forth like most machines I have seen, and they can move one at a time so you can take a drink of water without stopping your workout. I love this machine.
Delivery was fast and the product was perfect. I have had no issues requiring customer service. Thanks!
from Westminster,MD on 10/4/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This rower is easy for anyone who wants something different to use instead of the usual treadmill,eliptical.
from Mechanicsburg, PA on 10/1/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Very well made piece of equipment. Not having a lot of experience with rowing I am still struggling to get the rhythm correct. The instructions are vague.
from Washington, DC on 9/30/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Having put many things together, I had no trouble with this machine, but I could see it being confusing for people not used to assembly required things. The machine is great though, quiet, not too big, and it gives me something really different to do during my regular workout.
Delivery was quick but the machine came damaged, the packaging was pretty shredded. I needed to hammer out a few bent pieces of metal in order to assemble it, but all in all, it could have been much worse.
from Detroit Mi. on 9/28/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The only negative I can think of is when you are rowing fast it slides across the floor even with a mat under it.
from Herndon VA on 9/25/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The Kettler is just like rowing a real boat. The motions mimic exactly oars in oarlocks. I try to use it every day. It is far superior to any other equipment I have tried. I highly recommend it. It is very sturdy. It looks and feels like it will last forever.
from van nuys, ca. on 9/20/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I live in Southern California. My machine stays outside which is great for my workouts.
I am not concerned about the machine being outside because it is a very sturdy, heavy duty machine.
All I do is throw a tarp over it after I've finished.
from South Carolina on 9/9/2008
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I use this rowing machine to help tone and build endurance for motocross riding. It does a very good job of working my core, arms and thighs. The only gripe I have is that the machine does not measure in calories, it measures in joules - you have to manually convert.
from Berkeley, ca on 9/2/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Good for daily exercise. Good substitute for being on the water. Screw holding handle on is coming loose, and I can't figure out how to tighten it.
from Detroit MI on 8/28/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The instructions are in German, so you need to be able to set up with just the diagrams (took about 45 mins after verifying all parts there). The rower is relatively quiet, I do like better than others because the motion is more like actual rowing. Arms fold in, but not exactly one you can put under the bed. Takes up about 2 feet X 5 feet when arms are down.
from Raytown, MO on 8/27/2008
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The product overall is great, but the straps on the feet could be better made. I had to replace them after a few months. Other wise this is a great work out amd well made.
from Atlanta, GA on 8/25/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Used it 5 days a week for 45 minutes each session. After about 6 months, the factory attached hand grip came off due to a stripped screw. I had trouble getting that fixed, but otherwise, this is an great workout machine.
from Sacramento, CA on 7/29/2008
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My work out is with the rower, light weights and calasthenics three days a week. I use the rower for overall warm-up then cario-strenght finish, where it does a very good job.
from Sacramento CA on 7/29/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I was 270lbs at 5’6” and miserable. I’ve always loved rowing. But, not boat. Not one that would hold my 270 lbs.
I purchased the rowing machine because it would be a low impact highly aerobic exercise for me. Between rowing and now bike riding I’m getting the exercise I need to be healthy and have fun.
I am able to maneuver on the American and the Sacramento Rivers in my new kyack without problems.
My Kettler Rowing machine is sturdy, easy and fun to use with a great variety of exercise programs I have developed for working on all parts of my body. This is a GREAT machine.
from Chicago, Il on 7/24/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
After about 15mins on the hardest setting it gets too easy. I stopped using it after a couple of months, for someone who works out often its not challenging enough. For someone who is out of shape and needs a gentle introduction too cardio its probably a good choice
from Dorchester, MA on 7/21/2008
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I love the machine. The only drawbacks about it are: the fact that it does not really give your legs a good workout ( a higher incline might improve this part); somewhat noisy.
from Sioux Center, IA on 7/11/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I really enjoy this machine it has fluid motion to it and feels similiar to the acutally rowing of a boat. I also like the fact that when I am done with a workout it is compacted and easy to store away. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good workout.
from Northern Cal. on 7/9/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The major frame pieces connect by inserting four bolts in four holes near the front of the assembly after the unit is aligned at the rear. No sweat. However, on my unit the holes were all off point by 1/2 inch. To assemble the unit I had to carefully and precisely drill 4 bolt holes through the thick metal frame. I did not realize this was an issue until the unit was entirely unboxed, so the idea of repacking it and returning was simply not realistic. (By the way, I am an experienced assembler of these kinds of products, this is NOT a case of user error.) This kind of manufacturing snafu is unacceptable and speaks to extremely poor standards at the factory.
from Chino ,Ca. on 6/10/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
It was not what I expected! To be honest,I feel like it's a lower grade than I spent my Hard earned money on.I'm not trying to complain,but I feel it was a lessor grade than I was led to believe.Less Sturdy,A little Noisier than I imagined,it doesn't flow the way thought and is very uncomfortable.If I had it to do over - I would have spent alot more money on a better machine.One that offers better comfort and dependability.
from Clarkston, MI on 6/10/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Comfortable workout. Not boring like 'pull on a rope' rowing machines. Mimicks skulling motions well.
from texas on 6/4/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
this is a great fitness tool
from Stephenville, TX on 6/4/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Of the piston rowing machines, the motion on this one is the most like rowing. I wish that it had a little more resistance. I row for one hour six days a week. I do 1700 reps an hour. It is a good workout, but I wish it was more strenuous. It is sturdy but parts do wear out and break, but you can order replacement parts through Kettler. I replace the pistons about every six months. I have recommended this machine to many of my friends. I have had my rowinf machine for three years.
[3 of 3 customers found this review helpful]
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Normally I'm cynical about exercise equipment. But I was pleasantly suprised by this product.
Everything was there, no damage, and went together in about 30 minutes using the tools included. If I'd used a ratchet it probably would have been more like 10 minutes. The instruction's diagrams were 90% idiot-proof, the remaining 10% would require a determined idiot. The instructions are in multiple languages.
The quality of the machining and hardware (the frames and nuts/bolts) were of high quality, no sharp edges or burrs. The threading on the bolts was good, there wasn't a single case where I was afraid I might cross-thread a nut. The paint finish was great, with no scratches, bubbles, painted over debris, or "missed spots".
Now, on to the uses:
I have to say, having tried several other rowers from the cheapest to the quite expensive, this is the only one that really simulates rowing. All the rest should be called Rope-yankers, or Line-tuggers. Pulling on a string isn't sculling or rowing.
Flat out I think this is the best piece of exercise equipment I've ever bought or used.
You can do low-tension, aerobic workouts, with little stress on your joints, or you can focus on strength conditioning, with the adjustable suprisingly quiet shocks.
By not bending your knees, you can focus on your back, by not bending the spine you can focus on arms, shoulders, and legs. It's easy to go 1-armed for waist muscle workouts.
It folds for storage, easy to fold up, and suprisingly compact once you lay the arms across the center frame.
The only less than perfect thing is the computer display, which has german names on the cover, for energy, counts, time, and pulse. But the english equivalent actually shows up on the lcd display, so it's no biggie.
from Lake Placid, NY on 5/10/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
great machine; easily assembled; my wife says the lowest resistance setting is too difficult.
[0 of 4 customers found this review helpful]
from Evanston, IL on 5/3/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
less boring than other rowers. I have a bad knee and this is no problem.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Seattle, WA on 5/1/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Disappointed that warranty did not cover defective left shock after less than 6 months of use four times per week. Understand that it is a wear and tear item, but should have lasted longer.
Customer service helpful and responsive.
from Houston, TX on 5/1/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Assembly requires an average mechanical ability. All parts were in the package and everything fit perfectly. Machine seems to be very sturdy and durable. It operates smoothly and is very quiet.
Delivery was fast by FedEx Ground (3 days).
[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]
from Charleston, SC on 5/1/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This rower came in perfect shape, no scratches. It took very little time to put together, and we were off and rowing quickly! The seat is sturdy and comfortable. The way the arms of the rower sit to your sides really does mimic true rowing, there is play in the arms making them move up and down slightly, which allows you to row with the "oars" high near your chest, or low near your stomach. The resistance is great, 12 levels, and you really can get a good stretch on your lats, and it actually works the rear delts and middle back area, also traps! Your hamstrings will burn after the first few times, but will make your hammys really strong and defined. The monitor works great too. I highly recommend the extra cash needed to get this rower, but it is very sturdy German craftsmanship and design, and I feel like we'll be rowing on this machine for many years. Enjoy!!
from LOS ANGELES on 4/27/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
GOOD PRODUCT FOR OVER ALL WORKOUT. FOOTS STRAPS COULD BE IMPROVED AND MONITOR NEEDS BETTER WAY TO BE ATTACHED.
from Westminster, MD on 4/21/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I look forward to using my rower over my other exercise equipment!!!!!! Better than the elipitical
from Littleton, ma. on 4/19/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
great machine if you have limited space
from Coeur d alene, Idaho on 4/18/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
best overall peice of workout equipment I have ever purchased, I use it for weight loss & strength & I love to get up in the morning & get to work on my rower. Their are a few cons, the seat needs to be a little bigger & the seat needs more padding. the setup is basic instructions so they need to illistrate the set up better, but I just used common sence & looked at the box to set it up. I give this machine 2 thumbs up & recommend this to any one who wants to lose weight & tone your body.
from Chicago on 4/12/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I have chronic fatigue, need engaging exercise that I can measure out carefully to avoid post-exercise collapse. The rowing motion has been ideal---similar in value to XC skiing, roller skating. I am 6 feet tall and don't hit the limit of adjustment. My 5' 2" wife likes it a lot, too. Needs a floor pad.
The first few sessions need to go slow to get the technique. It takes substantially more co-ordination than a bike trainer or elliptical or stepper. But the co-ordination demands are good for me---I tend to pass out from neurally induced hypotension during simple exercise such as biking or running. I need the complexity to keep up circulation.
Computer/heart-monitor are a bit tricky to understand while exercising. Computer falls off easily when moving the machine.
Delivery good. There were a few small parts missing, one item not pre-assembled as advertised. Factory contact by e-mail solved the problem quickly in a friendly manner.
Assembly is a bit complicated. Given the complexity, the pictorial instructions are pretty good, but not quite perfect. It goes together in 1/2 hour if you have pretty good mechanical intuition.
Needs some extra lock nuts, since it is easy to install the part backwards, and they are not re-usable.
from Maryland on 4/4/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I use this product for a cardio workout and light strength training. The technique takes a little getting used to, but relatively easy to pick up (especially if you have rowed on water before). Setup was moderately difficult - it took me a little over an hour and I ended up using my own tools. Directions are picture only, but not too bad to follow. Comfort is good and the machine is very quiet. I also have small basement and this fits perfectly. When it is folded up I can put it again the wall in a corner (but it weighs around 60lbs so not easy to move from room to room or anything). I'm 6'3" and this rower could accomodate someone much taller than me. On board monitor is relatively easy to use and tracks your pulse nicely. Difficulty settings take a little to get just right, but definitely provide a tough work out on the top levels.
Overall a great rower!
Delivery was incredibly fast and product arrived in great condition.
from Warren, MI on 3/27/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Well worth the money, no problems with my rower. I'm very happy i decided to get one.
Quick delivery, no problems ordering thru the website, a great experience.
from Alameda, CA on 3/25/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Great home exercise machine. The Kettler Rower is sturdy, smooth, quiet, and of quality construction. However, this machine does not easily pack and store.
from Bluffton, SC on 3/17/2008
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Perfect machine for overall fitness including weight loss. I have been using this rowing machine 4 times a week for over a year. I have had no problems and it continues to be sturdy and effective.
from Winter Haven, FL on 3/13/2008
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Best investment I made other than law school. Perfect all around machine. Combined with Schwinn DX900 takes care of all cardio.
from Clayton, GA on 3/13/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
This product is affordable, compact, sturdy, and functions much like actual rowing. I am tall and it fits me perfectly. The operation is smooth and, as long as you position yourself properly, you can achieve an awesome full-body workout very easily. Also, there are numerous resistance adjustments which make it easy to work out at your desired level. Great product for the price!
from Nogales, AZ on 3/12/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
I use my rowing machine mainly for Strength Training and to be in good shape. I am also looking foward to losing weight in the process. I definitely do recommend this rowing machine.
from Lambertville, NJ on 3/11/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Nice product!! Very easy to use and can be used in a dual purpose setting. The machine can build muscle as well as be good for cartio.
from Hermosa Beach CA on 3/11/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
The machine is extremely easy to assemble. It is sturdy and reliable. I've been using it for over a year. It provides in 40 minutes a good work out. It is quiet enough you can listen to your favorite radio station while rowing. Only a little wd40 will keep the oars well tuned. The resistance on the oars is at first a little awkward to figure out but no BD. Excellent product.
from Ohio on 3/8/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Needed something for the winter months Ideal
I have bad knees and using the rowing machine gives me a low knee strain workout
from Harrison Twp, MI on 3/6/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
Your foot straps are hard to use, if you start to move back and grab the computer read out it pops right off
from Austin, TX on 3/5/2008
Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine - FREE FedEx Shipping!:
My fitness program consists mostly of running, cycling, hiking and canoeing. I needed more upper-body work, but am mostly interested in aerobic workouts rather then strength training. The Kettler Kadett is well-designed and built, and provides a great aerobic workout for arms, chest, back and legs. I can work out at home, even when the weather's bad, or it's late, or I just don't feel like going some where, so now I exercise more often.