First Degree Fitness Viking Pro Rower Review

Quick Take

The First Degree Fitness Viking Pro indoor rower is a hardier version of the now discontinued Apollo PRO. It combines a hardwood frame, water drive, and steel rails to simulate a smooth and realistic on-the-water experience. Its water tank with Min/Max dial provides up to 4.5 gallons of gently splashing resistance, enough to train anyone from the beginner to the competitive rower. The Viking Pro’s American ash frame is reinforced with pressure-treated laminate to help it withstand commercial use. Data is shown on the unobtrusive monitor, with interval training and basic preset workouts supported. At 84” by 22”, the Viking Pro is a medium sized water rower. It can be stored upright.

Our Review

The First Degree Fitness (FDF) Viking Pro rower is a classy looking machine. Its rustic American ash frame would complement any workout space, and its water drive delivers a zen workout experience. Many rowers find the sight and sound of moving water very soothing. Another advantage of using a water rower is its realistic stroke feel. Unlike many other rowing machines, those with water resistance invariably let the trainee enjoy a complete stroke cycle without any “dead spots” in which resistance would change unnaturally. Specifically, the Viking pro features a patented twin tank innovation unique to FDF; it allows the user a complete stroke cycle with consistent resistance and instant catch. The Viking Pro features adjustable fluid resistance and a belt drive for smooth and quiet operation. It has a Min/Max dial with four levels of resistance which can provide up to 4.5 gallons of water resistance. This resistance will be enough to train anyone from a beginner to an advanced rower.

As the Viking Pro is built to commercial standards, it can withstand intense workouts. One of the reasons for this is because the hardwood frame is reinforced with pressure-treated laminate to help it withstand commercial use. It also features sturdy steel rails. At 84” x 22”, the Viking Pro is an average sized water rower. Although it does not fold, it can be stored upright (measuring 22″ by 21″) or moved into another room after use with the help of the transport wheels.

The Viking Pro’s workout monitor displays time, distance, 500m split time, strokes per minute, calories per hour, and watts. Although there is a ‘pulse’ section on the monitor, you can only use this if you purchase a heart-rate kit and chest strap separately; the rower requires an optional receiver and chest strap for this to work. Interval training and basic preset workouts are supported, plus the monitor has a USB port for integrating apps by FDF. These expand the workout programming and also let the rider see workout feedback as they watch video. Comfort features include a textured seat and height-adjustable footplates with straps. The Viking Pro is shipped with a 5-year manufacturer warranty on the frame as well as 3 years of protection on the non-wearing mechanical parts, and 2 years on all other parts.

Positives

• Ethically Produced: The Viking Pro is ethically produced from solid American Ash.
• Variable Water Resistance: The Viking Pro provides variable water resistance. Its tank can draw from up to 17 liters, with the rider adjusting a dial to control the water volume.
• Easy to Store: The Viking Pro rower is part of the Horizontal Series, designed for easy upright storage and re-positioning with the transport wheels affixed to the frame.
• Data and Workout Apps: As well as displaying your essential session data, the monitor includes a USB port for expanded functionality such as use with a racing app. Another option will layer workout data over video.
• Good Warranty: The 5-year manufacturer warranty on the frame and 3 years of protection on the non-wearing mechanical parts, and 2 years on all other parts is competitive.

Negatives

• Belt Drive: The Viking Pro uses a belt drive. This promotes quiet operation and requires little maintenance, but it might not be as durable as a chain drive in the long run.

Our Conclusion

Quality construction meets sleek design in the Viking Pro indoor rower. As it’s suitable for commercial use, it can handle any workout you throw at it. Yet its smooth rowing stroke and adjustable fluid resistance is gentle enough for deconditioned seniors. We recommend this model to health clubs seeking a low-maintenance model with the benefits of variable water resistance. It’s a top wooden water rower for commercial settings.