by Gary Patterson |
Last Updated: May 16, 2021 Table of Contents
About Stamina Rowing Machines
Stamina Products Inc. is a fitness equipment brand that also serves as an online dealer of other fitness brands. Their range of products expands from Pilates machines to office fitness equipment and trampolines.
In between their specialty product lines lies home gym functional favorites, such as stationary bikes, treadmills, and rowing machines. Their products have made their way into catalogs, shopping channels, and sports stores, and have been used by big home fitness names like Tony Little and Suzanne Somers.
Stamina Products Inc.’s home fitness equipment is for people of all types of fitness levels. Whether you’re new to exercising or are looking for a cost-efficient alternative to pricey fitness classes, Stamina Product Inc. has a machine for you.
Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine Review
The Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine is one of the brand’s more affordably priced products, loved by customers for its durability and hydraulic construction. Lightweight, foldable, and easy-to-move, this glider is a great option for anyone looking for a home-and-wallet-friendly low-impact cardio machine.
This Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine review will take a close look at the glider’s features, assessing its value in relation to its quality, cost, and ease-of-use, to help you decide if it’s worth the buy.
Now this Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine review will move on to the brand’s pros and cons before getting into the product’s features.
Pros
- Hydraulic cylinder resistance is quiet and provides a smooth oar-like stroke
- Arms simulate the real-life rowing experience
- Provides up to 50 lbs of resistance
- Lightweight & easy to move
- Folds up and can be stored in narrow spaces
- Simple display monitor lets you focus on your workout, not on changing songs
- Affordable
- Easy to buy online
- 90-Day Parts Warranty & 1-Year Frame Warranty
- Some buyers say the machine can be set up in under an hour
- Made from steel & aluminum
- No membership required to use
- Free shipping
- Variety of shipping options
- Setup in 9 steps
- Hassle-free 30-Day Returns
Cons
- The hydraulic cylinder loses resistance after long workouts due to its oil heating up
- Display monitor is very plain and does not include speed or RRM, which may not meet the needs of every user
- Some buyers struggled to set up the glider
- Seat can be uncomfortable during long sessions
- Only holds up to 250 lbs and may not be suited for those over 6 feet tall
- Does not offer an assembly service
- Does not ship internationally
Technical Specifications
In this section of this Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine review, we’ll provide all of the stats you need to know about the glider, from its physical dimensions, down to the nitty-gritty of what makes this machine tick.
We’ll start with some basic stats:
- Dimensions: 58.25” x 42.5” x 18.125” (LxWxH) – the width is measured when its arms are extended
- Stored Dimensions: not given, but the glider folds up into itself, meaning the length becomes the height, and the height becomes the width. We can assume it’s about 5 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Material: Steel frame with an aluminum center beam
Next, we’ll focus on the features of the BODYTRAC GLIDER and what you can look forward to when using:
- Seat: molded seat that fits the shape of your body. Divots that prevent sliding during movement
- Handle: Steel handles wrapped in rubber grip with stoppers at the end to prevent your hands from sliding off
- Display Monitor: easy to use, one button controls it all
- Workouts: no workouts to choose from on the display, but you can go at your own pace, or follow along to free rowing videos on YouTube if you have a TV in your workout room
- Resistance: Hydraulic cylinder resistance gives a smooth and quiet rowing experience
- Functions: You’ll be able to see your calories burned, count, total count, and time elapsed in your current session
- Warranty: Parts have a 90-Day Warranty, frame has a 1-Year Warranty
Resistance Type
The BODYTRAC GLIDER Rowing Machine uses hydraulic cylinder resistance to give you a great full-body workout. The hydraulic cylinder provides up to 50 lbs of resistance, which is quite impressive for such a lightweight and affordable machine.
With 12 resistance settings, this machine can give you a hard and thorough workout if you put in the work.
To switch up the resistance, you’ll need to locate the adjustment knob. It’s located at the top of the shock, under your seat. Twist the knob to reach your desired setting. 1 is light, 12 is heavy.
Hydraulic resistance uses air or liquid to create force. In the case of the BODYTRAC GLIDER, the resistance created is a result of the pressure of moving liquid in a cylinder and the force that creates.
The great thing about rowing machines that use hydraulic resistance is that they are super quiet. You may hear a slight hiss, but it’s nothing like the loud whooshing sound an air rower makes. Hydraulic rowing machines are often lighter and more wallet-friendly than other models, thanks to their simple design.
The issue with hydraulic resistance is that, like any oil, the oil within the cylinder heats up the more you work. Work means heat, which thins out the oil and creates less resistance for you.
We came across a Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine Review that mentioned this was the case, with his glider losing resistance (not all, but some) within the first 199 strokes. Upon using the second time, it lost resistance again at about 180. This may reveal that users who are putting in a heavier workload (longer, harder, faster) will find their workout intensity will be limited to the time it takes the oil to heat up.
Price
You can buy your BODYTRAC GLIDER directly from staminaproduct.com, but it’s also available for purchase from other retailers revealed further down in this STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER review.
The brand’s website accepts major credit cards like Amex, Visa, MasterCard, and others, as well as PayPal. We did not come across any information that hinted at a payment plan option.
Ordering your BODYTRAC GLIDER from staminaproducts.com is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is head to the website and follow these steps:
- Go to the BODYTRAC GLIDER product page
- Click ‘Add to Cart’
- Select ‘Checkout’ on the right-hand side of the screen
- Enter your billing and shipping details
- Review your order
- Click ‘Place Order’
Since shipping is free, you only need to pay for your BODYTRAC GLIDER which is $230, plus tax.
Shipping & Assembly
Stamina Products Inc. offers free standard shipping for the BODYTRAC GLIDER, which only applies to customers in the continental US. They do ship their products to Alaska and Hawaii as well, but shipping rates apply. If you want your glider faster than standard delivery – which takes 5-10 business days – you can choose one of their other shipping options outlined below:
- Expedited 2-5 business days
- 2-Day Air 2-4 business days
- One-Day Air 1-2 business days
Once your BODYTRAC GLIDER Rower arrives, you can put your machine together in 9 steps outlined in the user manual that comes with your glider. Some say this machine can be tricky to put together because the manual’s details are slightly off.
Some customers have said they put their STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER together in about 15 minutes. Others say it takes about an hour. It depends on how experienced you are with putting machines together, as there are a ton of different pieces that can get confusing for some.
Stamina Products Inc. does not have a team that will assemble your glider for you, but if you have any questions while you put it together, you can call their customer service team and they will be happy to help.
Setup
In your user manual, you will find a 9-step setup process for your STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER. It comes with 69 different parts, some of which come in multiples, like the 24 washers you will need to put this machine together. You’ll receive all of the tools you need to assemble your glider within your kit.
The STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER has an uncomplicated display monitor, so aside from popping in one AA battery, there is nothing else you need to do but start rowing. Once you start, the monitor will turn on and will begin measuring your strokes.
There are no options to input your height and weight, so users should be aware that the calories burned amount shown is an average estimation based on your speed and distance.
Design and Features
The design of the Stamina Bodytrac Glider Rowing Machine is it’s best quality. Lightweight, sleek, and completely foldable, this easy-to-use glider mimics the rowing motion, simulating the real rowing experience. Holding a moderate amount of weight, the molded seat provides grip to keep you from sliding during your workout.
The STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER has a painless display monitor that tells you everything you need to know to have a great workout and track your progress.
In this section of this STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER review, we’ll provide you with all the specifics you need to know about the design of the glider, along with details on its features.
Build Quality
The BODYTRAC GLIDER is made from a mix of steel and aluminum. The steel frame is sturdy enough and feels solid, while the aluminum middle beam is lighter. This beam is what your seat will slide across, which is why this glider can only accommodate up to 250 lbs.
Customers have been very pleased with the durability of this machine despite its light weight of 39lbs.
The machine can be moved with ease by most who use it. Though we would not say this machine feels cheap, it is lightweight – something people tend to associate with cheap machines. Those who have bought this machine are quite happy about its value, although some report receiving gliders with broken parts.
Comfort
This rowing machine features a sculpted seat, molded to fit your body. It’s made of plastic, but does have a padded cover that adds some level of cushioning. Users have said that when rowing for long periods the seat can be a bit uncomfortable.
The handles are probably one of the STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER’s best features. The arms operate sort of like how oars would if you were really rowing. They have a rubber covering on the ends for a comfortable grip while you row.
The footrests have been said to have a few issues, namely that they do not have a large enough edge on the bottom to stop your foot from slipping. They feature an easily adjustable strap that locks your foot in tight and textured plates that provide grip. Combined with the bottom lip, there should be enough to keep your foot from slipping.
Capacity
The BODYTRAC GLIDER has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. This machine isn’t ideal for those who weigh more than that or who are taller than 6 feet. We won’t say this machine is best suited for women, simply those who are more petit.
The reason we say this is due to this glider’s rowing arms. Those who are taller than 6 feet, or have very long legs, may find that their legs get in the way, or that they do not have enough space to fully extend them.
The back end of the glider is not extendable and therefore isn’t a good choice for people over 6 feet tall. In a STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER review, one 6 foot customer notes that though he had full motion, he wished the machine was a couple of inches longer.
This glider’s capacity is at the low end in comparison to other rowing machines. Though, we will note that 250 lbs appears to be the average capacity among simple rowing machines.
Display/LCD
The STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER’s display is in one word, simple. Simple isn’t always a bad thing, and not everyone needs a fancy LED screen that connects wirelessly to their phones.
Go old-school (which, to be honest, is sometimes better). Turn on some music or watch your favorite show without pausing while trying to figure out why a droplet of sweat switched off your favorite song.
The display screen is a small, rectangular box that showcases one stat at a time. It gives you all of the information you need to know, just not all at once.
You have the option to auto-scan between your stats so that you can see your time, count (number of rows in your session), total count (number of rows you’ve done since you got the machine), and calories burned, without having to press the button.
Speaking of buttons, there is just one button that controls the mode (what information you’d like displayed) and can also reset your session, if needed.
Membership
There is no membership service that users need to subscribe to, to be able to use this product. It has a simple computer that doesn’t require Bluetooth or a wifi signal, so you can go ahead and use your glider how and when you please without paying for a costly membership plan.
Storage
The STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER folds up like a dream. The arms fold in and you can tip the glider upright so that it takes up less space in your home. Once upright, the glider is quite slim – under a foot in length, so it fits easily into hallway entrance closets or can be tucked behind your bedroom door.
You may be able to slide it under your bed as well, if you have one that is more than a foot off of the ground.
The STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER is light, weighing just 38 lbs. It’s completely doable with just one person, and even those who are not in tip-top physical shape will be able to drag the glider from room to room.
Warranty
Your STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER comes with two separate warranties. The parts have a 90-Day Warranty, while the frame has a 1-Year Warranty. These warranties declare that the materials and workmanship of your glider should be defect-free within those periods.
For your warranty claim to be valid, you must have purchased your glider directly from an authorized Stamina Product Inc retailer.
Stamina Products Inc will either replace or repair your BODYTRAC GLIDER, but the return shipping costs will come out of your pocket. They do not give refunds outside of the 30-day return window. Warranty claims are only deemed valid if they are for a reason not related to the following:
- Commercial use (in a gym, used by multiple people)
- Abuse
- Misuse
- Modifications made by you
Before you can access your right to warranty, you need to register your Stamina Rowing Machine by filling in the Product Registration Card included with your machine. You can also register your product using Stamina Products Inc.’s online registration tool.
Alternatively, if you received your STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER and are not happy with it, you can return it within 30 days.
Final Thoughts
The BODYTRAC GLIDER is a wonderful, affordable option for those who want a light workout. It’s especially good for seniors, or smaller people who cannot lift heavy objects. Although, men up to 6 feet tall have also used this machine and love it.
Though you won’t be breaking any world records on this glider for speed or force, it does provide 12 settings and up to 50 lbs of resistance.
The display unit is pretty basic, but that shouldn’t affect your workout. Users can have a thorough, full-body workout without a display, but this one still lets you know the basics so you can get an idea of how hard you’re working. We really like this machine because according to customers, even though it’s inexpensive (in the realm of rowing machines) it’s durable and gives them a good workout.
On top of that, the brand appears to be on it in terms of sending replacement parts and following up on customer queries.
FAQ
Where can I purchase the STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER ROWER?
You can buy your STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER directly from staminaproducts.com. In the event that Stamina Products Inc. is out of stock and you don’t feel like waiting, you can also find the glider at the following stores:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Rona
- Home Depot
- The Bay
Is there a STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER ROWER discount?
In a STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER review of the brand’s website, we did not find any discounts for their products. The brand is currently offering a Sweepstakes for customers who leave reviews with pictures. The winners will receive either a $100 or $50 Amazon gift card.
Does the STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER ROWER fold?
Yes! The Stamina Rower folds up nice and tightly and is super easy to store. It’s also very lightweight which makes it a breeze to move around your home.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
To lose belly fat you need to be in a calorie deficit. You can do this with a mix of exercise and a healthy diet. Using a rowing machine strengthens your ab muscles so that when you do lose belly fat, your muscles will be exposed. Hello, six-pack!
Is rowing better for you than running?
It depends on who you ask. In terms of being low-impact, rowing is certainly better for your joints than running is. Rowing is a thorough workout that activates muscles in every area of your body: legs, abs, arms, and back. Running may burn more calories, but it does more damage to your body as well.
How to contact Stamina Products?
We hope that you found all of the information you needed in this STAMINA BODYTRAC GLIDER review. If you have any specific questions for the company, you can contact them using these methods:
- Phone: 1-800-375-7520
- Email: [email protected]
- Snail Mail: 2040 N. Alliance Avenue, Springfield, MO 65803
- Contact Form