This is related to why I bought a concept2 erg recently. Hurt my achilles and needed to switch to a low impact exercise, which I prefer to be able to do at home rather than going somewhere else (so swimming is out).
Looked at Peloton, but it's about twice as much as an erg up front, has running costs each month, and what seemed to be many more points of failure (which includes the electronics). The Concept2[0] is a tank that should last me a very long time. Space is an issue (I had to shove my dining table to the side), but the workout is amazing and I have a lot of faith in the machine to last. Plus it has a pretty straightforward bluetooth connection if I want to get data out and multiple USB and ethernet ports on the very simple monitor it came with.
I own a concept 2. I have 4.6 million meters on it. I watch programming videos in Spanish while I workout(To learn Spanish). This is my "Smart Workout Machine".
Mainly I am using LinkedIn Learning right now, it's what my company is paying for right now. Learning platforms like that let you search by language and closed captioning sometimes, then LinkedIn let's me share that to my "activity feed" and "certifications".
I have a concept2 rower as well. I didn't buy it for the SDK[0], but I love that they keep the tech minimal and provide tools for third party developers. It's a company I'm glad to support.
Concept2 machines are bomb proof. These things are designed for intensive use in gym settings which far outweighs the use I put in a single individual. I've put in countless meters on mine over the years and it's still practically good as new.
I normally ride a bike on a smart trainer during the winter (when not riding outside), but am planning to buy a Concept2 Erg before next winter. It should be great for core and back strength, something cycling -- especially indoor cycling -- benefits greatly from but just doesn't do.
It's amazing to me just how (relatively) cheap the Concept2 is. Solid, well made, and reliable.
Concept 2 is indeed the cheaper and better option for an erg. Aside from being very sturdy machines at reasonable prices compared to your nordictracs and pelotons, old models are supported essentially forever with spare parts and detailed installation/fix instructions. I dont know of any rowers who don't swear by them.
I picked up a model A for just this reason. $120 on craigslist for a 35 year old machine. It is super solid, but will need to replace a few minor parts soon. And from what I can tell they are all available for purchase from concept2, which is awesome.
Looked at Peloton, but it's about twice as much as an erg up front, has running costs each month, and what seemed to be many more points of failure (which includes the electronics). The Concept2[0] is a tank that should last me a very long time. Space is an issue (I had to shove my dining table to the side), but the workout is amazing and I have a lot of faith in the machine to last. Plus it has a pretty straightforward bluetooth connection if I want to get data out and multiple USB and ethernet ports on the very simple monitor it came with.
[0] https://www.roguefitness.com/black-concept-2-rowerg-rower-pm...