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S A F E T Y
We recommend consulting a physician before starting out with an exercise
program. Please read all instructions before using the WaterRower. Additional
information on getting started, rowing technique and rowing training advice can
be found at www.HowToRow.com.
CAUTION:
Please keep hands away from moving parts when rowing machine is
in use. Failing to do so can lead to injury. For further information on safety tips,
please refer to:
www.waterrower.com/safety.
O P E R AT I O N
The WaterRower is unique in using the effect of drag to provide an exercise which
is entirely self paced. Because drag is linked to speed, a crew rowing down a
river chooses its intensity of exercise simply by altering the pace at which they
row: the faster the boat travels the greater the drag and the harder the crew
must work. There is a similar effect in swimming.
By replicating these dynamics the WaterRower does not require adjustment to
increase resistance: if a more intensive workout is required, simply row faster
and harder, and the WaterRower will respond accordingly.
WAT E R L E V E L
The amount of water in the tank simulates the weight of the boat and crew as it
glides down the river. Changing the water level does not change the resistance, it
simply changes the mass which the user is trying to move. Increasing the water
level simulates a heavier boat and crew mass, similarly reducing the water level
simulates a lighter boat and crew mass.
The water level is adjusted according to one’s personal preference or user type;
the intensity is altered simply by moving the chosen mass faster or slower. A
level gauge is positioned on the side of the tank. Overfilling the tank could impact
the warranty coverage. Do not fill above the maximum level.
Note: Fill the tank with ordinary municipal water. Municipal water contains additives which
will deter the growth of algae. If municipal water is unavailable, use distilled water (do
not use well water). Unless using blue dye, add the purification tablet supplied with your
WaterRower. Refer to the section on Preventative Maintenance for advice on keeping the
water clean and clear.
F O OT PA D P O S I T I O N
The Footpad has been designed to be adjusted for maximum
comfort. The Footstrap is designed to cross the foot at the
pivot point of the toes (the ball of the foot). This should enable
the heel to be raised off the footboard as the user comes
forward with each stroke. The Footpad can be easily adjusted
to accommodate different users, simply lift the top lip of the
Footpad to unhook and slide up or down to reposition on
another hole.
STA RT U P M A I N T E N A N C E
During the first weeks of use, your WaterRower will adjust to use and the
temperature/humidity of the environment. During this period we advise that you
GENTLY tighten all the connecting bolts with the 5mm ratchet supplied. Please be
careful not to overtighten any of these bolts.
Additionally, as the drive and recoil belts loosen up with use, it may be necessary
to tighten the bungee cord. To do this, leave the handle in the full forward
position and adjust the bungee/recoil belt buckle to provide a little more tension.
It may be necessary to tighten to perform these two simple start up procedures
once or twice over the first month of use. Please refer to Adjusting the Recoil
video at:
www.waterrowerservice.com/videos
P R E V E N TAT I V E M A I N T E N A N C E
Periodic maintenance is required to maintain the condition of the water in the
tank. We strongly ADVISE USING MUNICIPAL TAP WATER which contains
treatments to keep it free from bacteria and algae, etc. The water must be
refreshed periodically by adding a Water Purification Tablet provided (if using the
blue dye, do not use the purification tablet). The purification tablet degrades by
exposure to light: this may vary from 6 months in direct sunlight to 2 years in an
artificially lit environment. Generally we suggest adding one purification tablet
every 6 months.
If water discoloration occurs, add a purification tablet immediately. If the water
does not clear, we recommend emptying the tank, flushing it out with clean
water, refilling and adding a purification tablet. NEVER USE POOL CHLORINE OR
CHLORINE BLEACH in the tank as this will irreparably damage the polycarbonate
tank. The use of an alternative purification option in the tank beyond the approved
WaterRower product could void the warranty.
