I love this rowing machine! I searched long and hard, review after review, and I'm so glad this is the one I picked.
I'll start off by saying that I have Not tried the app, so I have no report on that. If I do try it, I'll try to post an update here. But the app was not among my needs for purchase.
Read the assembly directions. When attaching the seat, it's Very important that you get the seat And the stem facing correctingly in order for the sensor to work. The directions tell you how, so Read Them. I'm a DIY person so directions are not my thing, but you've got to swallow that pride in order to get accurate experience of a quality product. It's easy enough to assemble, you just need to know about things like the sensor and which parts go where.
Tools and parts was SO easy, I wish Every manufacturer did this. They're all nicely labeled and separated in wrapping (pictured), so there's no reasonable way you can accidentally throw them away with the box. Pedals are in the one smaller box inside product packaging. Only downside to packaging is that there are no spare parts. But it's organized so well, you shouldn't need extras.
About the only thing the instruction booklet doesn't tell you, is how to increase tension. Fortunately the little knob is pretty self explanatory, and the booklet covers just about everything else. The machine is so super easy to use, my 12 yr old can come in and use it with no problem. Just look up videos for proper posture.
I can't say enough how remarkably quiet this machine is! There's sound, sure. But I can workout on this machine while watching a movie and the sound does Not interrupt the movie at all. So even a lazy day binge watching shows still gets a workout. I also have super sensitive hearing, and remarkably this machine doesn't aggravate that.
Biggest con, it's a heavy machine and despite being manufactured to be moveable, it's not without some effort. I have a tiny space, but usually it's just easier to leave it out than try to maneuver it. Especially since I use it daily. The directions tell you how to make it more portable, but don't be surprised when you have to use a little muscle both ways – mostly when lining up the holes just right to insert the stabilizing pin. Keep this in mind during original assembly too. It's not a feather. Also, the velcro on the footstraps don't go far enough to tighten around bare feet very well. So unfortunately you'd have to wear shoes to get the most out of those. But it's probably only an issue when you're going full speed and need your feet secure. If you're a beginner starting out slow, it's probably not as crucial. But do what's safest for you and your comfort and expertise level.
Overall I couldn't be more happy with this machine. My friends and family can't shut me up about it. It's a great full body workout that doesn't interrupt the rest of your day. I have a tiny budget so this was a bit if a splurge. But it was still affordable and I'm so happy with my choice.
