by Gary Patterson |
Last Updated: May 21, 2021 Table of Contents
About Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machines
On a budget? Sweat and save by choosing Sunny Health & Fitness. Known for their competitive pricing, this sporting goods brand carries a wide variety of indoor exercise equipment. This includes treadmills, rowers, ellipticals, stationary bikes, steppers, and more.
Led by CEO John Sun, this online brand first opened its doors in 2002. Their machines are manufactured in two different locations: Los Angeles, California, and Xiamen, China. Often listed as a cost-effective alternative to expensive workout equipment, trainers are able to stay in shape by opting to buy their treadmills or steppers.
Since their internet debut, Sunny Health & Fitness has grown considerably over the years. Run by over 100+ employees around the globe, this health and wellness brand has expanded to include a podcast and side blog dedicated to exercise. To ensure a happy customer experience, they lead their team with a family-centric approach by maintaining a healthy balance of fun and work.
Garnering an impressive following of over 17.5k on Instagram, Sunny Health & Fitness has managed to stay within the ‘media orbit’ throughout its time. This includes being featured in Healthline, PopSugar, Runner’s World Magazine, and USA Today.
SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review
For the purposes of this review, we will only be focusing on one of their all-time bestsellers: the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower. Priced affordably at $260, this indoor paddler is equipped with a performance monitor, a cup holder, and a device stand for your tablet or phone. Highly recommended online, this model is commonly featured in independent blogs such as Best Fitness Equipment and Freedom Genesis.
Disagree with your gym’s closing hours? This indoor model comes with no time limit. Stay tuned, as this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review will take an in-depth look at the product features, online ratings, quality, and value to help you make that final decision.
Before we get into this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review, let’s go over some initial pros and cons:
Pros
- Comes with 16 different resistance levels
- This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower also comes with a performance monitor, a bottle holder, and a device stand
- Provides an indoor solution for when outdoor exercise is not an ideal option
- Cuts gym membership fees and scheduling issues
- More affordable compared to other brands
- Positive customer reviews
Cons
- They don’t offer international shipping
Technical Specifications
For those who need a quick summary, this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review will provide a condensed list of technical specifics down below.
- Dimensions: 77” L x 23” W x 22.5” H
- Stored Dimensions: 36.3” L x 23” W x 47” H
- Weight: product is 49.6 lbs. User capacity is 285 lbs
- Material: assumably steel
- Handle: non-slip foam padded handles
- Monitor/Display: performance monitor that tracks time, calories, stroke rate, and total count
- Workouts: rowing
- How many videos: N/A
- Resistance: magnetic with 16 different levels
- Connections: needs 2 AAA batteries for the monitor
- Heart rate: N/A
- Functions: cardiovascular fitness. Full body workout
- Seat: wide padded cushion
- Warranty: 3-year structural frame and 180-days parts and components
Resistance Type
Ah, nothing quite mimics the soothing feel of paddling on the water. With the sun on your back, it’s not hard to imagine why you’d miss this sporting activity when the winter months hit.
For those in the market for an indoor rowing machine, customers are usually confronted in choosing between 4 different resistance types: water, air, magnetic, and digital. The SF-RW801 Rowing Machine is powered by two opposing magnets. Designed never to collide, this model ensures a smooth and seamless oaring experience.
Most workout enthusiasts opt for this variety due to its quiet performance. However, some professional scullers complain that this type doesn’t simulate the natural environment of being on the water. Funnily enough, paddling feels too smooth- as it’s far from providing the feeling of challenging, opposing currents.
If you didn’t sign up for a calm, meditative oaring experience, trainers can up the ante by increasing the resistance levels on the adjustable knob. From 1 to 16, users can either paddle in peace or create a sweat-inducing workout session.
Price
High peaks in pulse readings should only be attributed to workout intensity, not because of the product’s overall price. With that in mind, readers can breathe a sigh of relief- as the SF-RW5801 Rower only costs $260. Originally priced at $400, customers can get a bang for the buck since they save a whopping total of $140. You can save this tidbit of money for those workout leggings you bookmarked for later.
From what this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review has seen so far, this model falls within the affordable category of stationary paddlers. If you’re unfamiliar with the pricing range for this variety of exercise machines, prototypes like Echanfit Foldable Indoor sculler and the Fitness Reality 1000 Plus go for about $235 and $335. These three options usually come with the same features: a standard performance monitor and an adjustable resistance knob.
If you’re looking for a machine that comes with virtual coaching and entertainment programs, get ready to shell out some more cash. Pricier alternatives such as the Ergatta WaterRower and the NordicTrack RW900 retails for a whopping $2,400. The SF-RW5801 doesn’t come with these features, as users will have to use their own mobile device for live workout programs. For those who’d rather opt to go for the ‘old school’ route, I’d say there’s no need to spill an additional $2,140 for a fancy monitor.
While Sunny Health & Fitness offers Affirm as an alternative payment option on their website, this is not provided for the SF-RW5801. This is because this model is already on sale. Besides purchasing it on their website, customers can also find this indoor rower in retail stores such as Amazon and Walmart.
Shipping & Assembly
On top of the $140 you save, Sunny Health & Fitness offers complimentary shipping on the SF-RW5801. Utilizing UPS, USPS, and FedEx as their main couriers, it usually takes 6 to 7 days for orders to arrive.
To help monitor the status of your package, customers can use the tracking number found in the confirmation email located in their inbox. Unfortunately, this online brand only delivers to those living in America or Canada- but this doesn’t stop you from purchasing their models at one of their partnered retailers.
Once you’ve arranged a drop-off time for your package, buyers will need to provide a signature upon delivery. And hurray! Your SF-RW5801 has finally arrived. Customers will notice that their machine will come partially assembled– but it will only take a bit of legwork to get it fully constructed.
All Sunny Health & Fitness machines come with an instructional manual in the box. Before you call in a favor, there’s no need to borrow your dad’s toolbox. The SF-RW801 rower comes equipped with an assembly bag that includes bolts, screws, and wrenches. If customers have difficulty putting this model together, the brand’s customer service team is on standby to help walk you through the process.
From what this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review has seen so far, a majority of customers found the assembly process to be straightforward and easy.
`“The package arrived quickly, and I loved how easy the setup was. All the parts and tools were packaged on a piece of cardboard with labels, making the job a breeze,” one reviewer wrote on their website.
Setup
Once you’ve plugged in the batteries, it’s time to start rowing. The SF-RW5801 doesn’t require users to input any other data, such as date, time, and location. Since it’s designed to only showcase the basics, the model needs no WI-FI connectivity or account login to operate.
Design and Features
On the fence? Let us move onto the crucial part of this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review. We’ll go over the product’s build quality, comfort, and overall user capacity to finally see if it’s worth adding to your cart.
Build Quality
While the brand doesn’t specify the exact material the SF-RW5801 is made of, they do provide its overall weight. Amounting to 49.6 lbs, this rower is light enough to be lifted, moved, or collapsed for easy storage. To keep trainers fully planted in the ‘boat,’ this rower comes with floor stabilizers beneath the frame to prevent tilting or rocking.
If you’re in the process of achieving those gains, this model comes with a set of transportation wheels at the bottom. From what we’ve read online, a good number of reviewers on Amazon and on their company website stated that they were happy with the quality and sturdiness of the product.
“It is also easy to move from room to room using the wheels on the front feet. Just pick up the back end of it, lift it to about a 45 degree angle and roll it across the floor on the wheels, whether on carpet or hard flooring,” one Amazon customer wrote.
Comfort
Whether it’s 30 minutes or half an hour, indoor exercise machines should be designed with comfort in mind. Fortunately, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower comes with a cushioned ergonomic seat to ensure no pains or aches. The non-slip foam padded handlebar is to prevent your fingers from sliding off from sweat. Built with two oversized foot pedals, users have more than enough space to paddle their calories away.
Independent blogs, such as Best Fitness Equipment and Health Fitness Critique, have rated this model with two thumbs up in terms of comfort. This is partially due to the large padded seat, which made prolonged exercise sessions blister and bruise-free.
Capacity
The SF-RW5801 can accommodate over 285lbs, which is relatively standard for most rowing machines. For better comparison, models such as the Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower and the Stamina ATS Air Rower can hold a limit of 250 to 275 lbs. In terms of height, the side rail inseam of this Sunny Health & Fitness prototype measures out to be 43.5 inches, which can fit those beneath the 6-foot mark.
Based on these numbers, the SF-RW5801 is designed for those considered ‘normal’ regarding size or height. While it can accommodate overweight people, this might serve as an unsuitable option for those that fit within the class 3 obesity level or above. But there’s no need to worry. Customers can still enjoy the meditative sport of sculling by opting for other models, such as the Xeno Muller Rowing Machine by the WaterRower.
This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review found very few customer testimonials on comfort on this topic. However, we did uncover one promising comment on their company website:
“I use it (I’m 5’3″), my sons can use it (they are 14 and 7), and my other family members who are closer to 6″ tall can use it comfortably, as well,” one reviewer wrote on their website.
Display/LCD
The SF-RW5801 only comes with the basics. Featuring a built-in digital monitor, trainers can track of their workout time, stroke count, and calories burned. Users can operate this display case by pressing one of its three buttons: set, reset, and mode. To customize your training routine, customers are to input their desired values into the system. This includes calorie count and the duration of the exercise session.
While it doesn’t feature a fancy touchscreen monitor, workout enthusiasts can affix their phone or tablet onto the device holder. From there, users are able to watch their choice of training program or Netflix show. As an added bonus, Sunny Health & Fitness offers a complimentary list of exercise videos on their website.
Membership
This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review found no indication of a membership plan offered by the company. If customers would like to train alongside a virtual coach, they can do so by accessing the brand’s plethora of workout videos.
Coming at no cost, users can create a sweat-inducing workout by watching tutorials like ‘Rowing Pyramid Intervals’ and the ‘Obsidian Surge Water Rower Workout.’ As a side note, each session is organized in levels of difficulty.
Storage
Built with transportation wheels and a collapsible frame, users can store their SF-RW5801 sweat-free. It’s designed to be folded vertically in order to minimize space. We recommend stowing it away in a vacant corner or closet to keep things neat and tidy. Weighing at a light 49.6 lbs, this model can easily be transported to one end of the house. As a result, there’s no need to call for further assistance.
Warranty
This indoor rower comes with two different warranties: a 3-year frame policy and a 180-parts and components guarantee. It’s worth mentioning that the SF-RW5801 is designed for at-home use, and is not intended for commercial facilities. This includes health spas, gyms, community centers, and other public spaces.
According to their terms and conditions, each state may differ in regards to warranties. This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review recommends double-checking your designated area for time limitations and other important information.
For their return policy, Sunny offers customers a 30-day window for all of their products. Items must be in new condition and in its original packaging in order to be considered eligible for a refund. In terms of shipping costs, the brand will only provide complimentary delivery if it’s within the fault of the company. Depending on the item in question, customers may need to pay a $200 shipping fee.
Final Thoughts
If you prefer your indoor workout machines to be hassle-free, this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review recommends this type of model. While it doesn’t come with an LCD touchscreen monitor or a heart rate tracker, customers can easily remedy this by purchasing a chest strap, downloading a pulse reading app, and affixing their mobile device to play their favored training program.
On the bright side, users are saved from the frustration of figuring out how to play YouTube or Netflix on their display case.
Affordably priced, Sunny Health & Fitness understands that price shouldn’t be an obstacle in working out. The SF-RW5801 comes at a reasonable $260, which allows customers more room to buy other exercise necessities- such as floor mats, gym clothes, or dumbbells.
If we were to pick holes, this model is not suitable for everyone. Made to only hold 285lbs, those who are slightly above this number may be forced to look for other alternatives. All in all, if you’re looking for a rower that’s low in cost and effective, the SF-RW5801 can serve as a considerable option.
FAQ
Where can I purchase the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower?
Customers can purchase the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower by visiting sunnyhealthfitness.com. You can also find them on select retailers such as:
- Walmart
- QVC
- Amazon
- Staples
- Bed Bath & Beyond
- Lowe’s
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
- Target
Is there a Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower discount?
Currently, the SF-RW5801 is on sale for $260. It was originally priced at $400.
Does the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower fold?
Yep! The SF-RW5801 is designed with a collapsible frame for easy storage. It also comes with transportation wheels on the bottom for added mobility.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
This Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review found out that users can lose weight by using a rowing machine. We recommend heading over to the company’s list of workout videos for motivation.
Is rowing better for you than running?
According to many health experts online, rowing is better than running. This is because it entails a full-body workout. Jogging and sprinting only require the power of your legs.
How to contact Sunny Health & Fitness?
For inquiries unrelated to this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower Review, you can contact the company through:
- Phone number: (626) 968-1000
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing address:
218 Turnbull Canyon Rd.
City of Industry, CA 91745