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If you had to name a few things you loved about the Fourth of July, you might mention fireworks, hotdogs, or a day off work. But don’t forget about the online shopping sales, specifically, the 4th of July fitness equipment sales.
Right now, you can shop some of the best 4th of July fitness equipment sales of 2024. Our team has compiled the best home gym machine sales from fan-favorite fitness brands like Rep Fitness, Sole, and Onnit. Browse some of our top picks and get started on building your dream home gym (or just stocking your supplement cabinet).
Our team is doing their best to stay on top of all the best 4th of July Fitness Equipment sales. Keep an eye on this page for daily updates, so you stay on top of the best deals this holiday season.
Featured 4th of July Fitness Equipment Sales for 2024
REP Fitness
Expect savings on REP equipment, including barbells, benches, weight plates and more.
NordicTrack
Save up to $700 during NordicTrack’s Fourth of July sale on the company’s Specials page .
Sole Fitness
During Sole’s 4th of July sale, expect deals on the company’s bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, and more.
Horizon Fitness
Get an extra $50 off Sole’s equipment, using code FIREWORK50 at checkout.
Titan Fitness
Get up to 40% off on racks, benches, bars and weights during this July Fourth sale, no code needed.
Force USA
Expect deals on Force USA’s strength training equipment and home gym products for this Fourth of July.
4th of July Deals on Strength Equipment
Strength equipment, like squat racks, aren’t a cheap buy. Here are some of the best strength equipment deals right now that can save you a big chunk of change.
American Barbell: Last year, American Barbell offered free shipping on barbells.
Bowflex: Get $100 off and free shipping on select Bowflex strength products.
Ready to buy one of the best treadmills to train for fall races? There’s no time like the present. Browse our best 4th of July sales on cardio equipment.
Echelon: Save up to $700 off Echelon Connected equipment and get 50% off bike accessories, plus free shipping right now.
Horizon Fitness: Get an extra $50 off using code FIRECRACKER50.
Hydrow: Last year, the company offered up to $280 in savings.
Life Fitness: Expect 4th of July sales on Life Fitness cardio equipment this year.
NordicTrack: Save up to $700 during NordicTrack’s Fourth of July sale on the Specials page.
ProForm: Save up to $500 on ProForm’s cardio equipment.
Schwinn: Get $50 off, plus free shipping right now.
Sole: Expect deals on treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and more.
Sunny Health & Fitness: Shop discounts on Sunny Health & Fitness equipment across the website right now.
XTERRA Fitness: Get up to 60% off (now through June 30).
4th of July Deals on Supplements
Supplements aren’t the priciest category on this list. But when you’re stocking up on greens powders, the cost can add up. July 4th is the perfect time to stock up.
A1 Supplements: Get 10% off all of A1s best supplements right now.
Legion: Last year, Legion offered BOGO 50% off, plus a $20 giftcard on orders of $99 or more.
MyProtein: Get 35% off the entire website using code 35NOW or automatically save 40% on the app.
Our tester drinking a shake of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
Onnit: Buy any 3 Alpha BRAIN products and get one free, ending July 1st.
Momentous: Right now, get free shipping on orders $75 or more.
Especially as the summer days get longer and warmer, a cold plunge has never sounded so refreshing. Now, you can save hundreds on the industry’s most popular models.
3 Ways to Find the Best 4th of July Fitness Equipment Sales
Want a little more help in finding the best fitness deals this holiday? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you save as much money as possible.
Research Products: Before the holiday hits, research all your favorite products and brands. Compare prices across different brands to help ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Subscribe to Newsletters: Subscribing to monthly newsletters can help you stay updated on any and all sales a company may be running. We recommend subscribing to newsletters from your favorite fitness companies.
Scroll Social Media: Most fitness equipment companies keep their social media accounts updated with sale information. So, make sure you’re following all your favorites and turn on post notifications.
4th of July Fitness Equipment Sales FAQs
Are 4th of July Fitness Sales good?
Alongside Black Friday, Memorial Day, and Christmas, Fourth of July sales are among the best time to save money on fitness equipment.
What is the best time to buy fitness equipment online?
Holiday sales are among the best time of year to save on exercise equipment — that includes the 4th of July.
What fitness equipment is on sale for 4th of July?
You can find just about any kind of fitness equipment on sale during the fourth of July. Whether you’re looking for a treadmill, elliptical, or dumbbell set, now is a good time to save.
Two-time Classic Physique Olympia champ Breon Ansley says hydration is critical for increased muscle mass.
Last updated on June 24th, 2024
Training volume plays a crucial role in muscle growth. To explore this, a comprehensive training video exceeding four hours was released on Jun. 14th, 2024, featuring former elite powerlifter turned bodybuilder Larry Wheels and two-time Classic Physique Olympia champion Breon Ansley.
Wheels and Ansley embarked on a 600-rep back workoutat One Gen Gym in Claremont, CA, alongside bodybuilder and social media sensation Fafa Araujo, known as “Fafa Fitness.”
The trio initiated their intensive, high-volume workout with pull-ups with a neutral grip. They completed three sets of 10 to 15 reps per set. During their routine, they deliberated on their dietary habits, unanimously acknowledging the significance of hydration for enhancing muscle mass.
Water makes you more full. Volumizing the muscle more.
Ansley recommended transitioning to reverse grip pulldowns. Although he wears a weightlifting belt, Ansley doesn’t credit his slender waist to a waist trainer or a belt.
What makes the waist smaller is you being conscientious and tightening [it]. That’s what cinches it down. No waist trainers or belts physically do the work.
Ansley incorporates vacuums while using the treadmill, stairs, and posing exercises to enhance his waist-tightening.
Wheels advocates having a workout partner, arguing that an individual can only push themselves so far, whereas a partner can help reach new heights.
Reverse-Grip Machine Chest-Supported Rows
Wheels and Ansley transitioned to a chest-supported row machine with a reverse grip. They executed controlled eccentric. Wheels began with a reverse grip before shifting to a neutral grip to target his lats.
I go from an underhand to a neutral grip to use less biceps. The more supinated, the more biceps. The more pronated, the more brachialis and back.
For a firm grip that prevents the dumbbell from slipping, Wheels uses wrist straps. Together, the bodybuilders complete four sets, consisting of 20 repetitions.
During Wheels’ second set of machine seated pullovers, Ansley advised extending the bar back to achieve a deeper lat stretch via an enhanced range of motion.
Machine Back Extensions & Pullups to Failure
The penultimate exercises was hyperextensions. They incorporated weights to load their erector spinae. They kept their legs relaxed to avoid engaging the glutes. Wheels and Ansley opted for an overhand grip. The duo closed with pull-ups to failure.
Volume and Accountability
While it isn’t not likely necessary for anyone not at an elite level to train at such high volume, elite athletes who prioritize their recovery are capable of it. Consistency is the key to success and a training partner can help keep you accountable.
Even though Sam and I work together every day, I often feel like we don’t get to see each other. I mean, physically I SEE him but if I’m being real, emotionally I’m not really there. I am hyper-focused, super intense, and honestly just too serious. But that’s quintessential business mode Cassey.
So…every summer I make it a point to plan what I like to call our Minimoon: a chance for us to step away from the grind (well, as best as we can…I mean as business owners can you ever REALLY!?!?) and be fully present with one another. I call it a Minimoon because I’m forever chasing the pure happiness that was our Honeymoon!
This year’s trip took us back to one of my favorite places on earth: French Polynesia.
We spent our days in the water and our nights gazing up at the sparkling sky. We retired when the sun retired and rose as she rose. We ate fries at every meal because we could so we did. We walked everywhere and rushed nowhere. We chose to disconnect in order to reconnect.
The past couple weeks have given me more than I wished for.
(No but like, literally. I wished to swim with 1 mantaray and we ended up swimming with 9!!!)
It’s been magical ✨
Now…we just need to figure out how to sprinkle this Minimoon mentality into our weekly lives instead of waiting for it once a year! Adding a sense of slowness where we can would be nice…except…kinda hard when the biz is in an exciting (and exhausting) growth phase. Oh well, we’ll figure it out! We always do, right Sam!?!
Men’s Physique and Bikini divisions were featured in China.
Last updated on June 24th, 2024
The 2024 Dragon Physique DMS Pro was held in Tianjin, China, on Sunday, June 23. It featured the IFBB Pro League’s Men’s Physique and Bikini divisions. Twenty competitors faced the judges and fans hoping to win and qualify for the 2024 Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.
Chris Putra won the Men’s Physique division and Si Yu was crowned in the Bikini division.
Putra, also known as Krishna Purnama Putra, scored his first pro victory and Olympia qualification at this contest. He appeared leaner than when he placed second at the first 2024 China DMS Pro show in March. He advances to Las Vegas, where he originally turned pro in 2022 at the Amateur Olympia contest.
Bikini Division Winner — Si Yu
Yu made her IFBB Pro League debut at this contest and celebrated her first pro win. The judges saw her as the clear winner. She is the sixth Chinese athlete to qualify for the 2024 Bikini Olympia.
Other Notes
The next pro show from China will be the 2024 China Pro, promoted by Kate Zou, in Sanya on the weekend of July 5-7, 2024. That competition is also an Olympia qualifier, featuring the 212 Bodybuilding, Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, and Bikini divisions.
The winner pulled off an upset to qualify for the 2024 Olympia.
Last updated on June 24th, 2024
The 2024 Flex Weekend Prowas held in Milan, Italy, on Sunday, June 23, 2024, and it featured four 2024 Olympia qualifying events. If they had not already qualified, the winners of those competitions would become eligible to compete at the 60th Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.
The weekend’s main event was the Men’s Open division, which saw Iran’s Behrooz Tabani pull off an upset victory over precontest favorite Nathan De Asha to become the 12th athlete to qualify for the 2024 Mr. Olympia contest.
2024 Flex Weekend Pro Results
The results for the four contests in Milan are listed below, courtesy of the IFBB Pro League:
Men’s Open
Behrooz Tabani (Iran)
Nathan De Asha (United Kingdom)
Emir Omeragic (Germany)
Anthony Jehl (France)
Justin Musiol (Germany)
Krystian Wolski (Poland)
Bela Kokeny (Hungary)
Andrea Bolzoni (Italy)
Kuba Cielen (United Kingdom)
Daniel Thomas (Germany)
Samir Troudi (United Arab Emirates)
Pawel Kowalski (Poland)
*Stanimir Etov (Bulgaria) was on the precontest roster but did not compete.
Both prejudging and finals were scored at this contest. Tabani was the clear winner in both rounds, according to the judges. This is his second pro win.
Tabani’s first pro win was at the 2023 Arnold South America contest. Due to visa issues, he was not able to compete in the 2023 Mr. Olympia contest. If he can travel to Las Vegas for the 2024 Olympia, it will be his debut on that stage.
De Asha ranked second overall and has until Sept. 15, 2024, to win a pro show and qualify for the Olympia.
Men’s Physique Winner — Matheus Nery Oliveira
Oliveira was coming off a runner-up finish to Sidy Pouye at the 2024 Empro Classic Pro one week before this event. He rebounded well to take his first pro win and Olympia qualification. He won the single round show with a perfect score.
Bikini Division Winner — Stine Hansen
Hansen competed in the 2024 Empro Classic Pro to a ninth-place place. She looked noticeably leaner and more confident in this competition to clinch the win and Bikini Olympia roster spot. If Hansen competes in Las Vegas, it will be her first Olympia appearance since tying for 16th in 2022.
Wellness Winner — Danai Theodoropoulou
Danai Theodoropoulou was the early favorite for Wellness fans. She came through for the win and can attempt to improve on her 12th-place finish at the 2023 Wellness Olympia. This is her second win in the pro ranks.
Pittsburgh, PA hosted the best weightlifters in the country for the 2024 National Championships Week. Here’s who made it to the podium.
Last updated on June 24th, 2024
The world of weightlifting may be abuzz about the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris, France, but USA Weightlifting‘s (USAW) National Championships Week is the talk of the town stateside.
Pittsburgh, PA hosted the States’ best weightlifters from Jun. 15 to 23 for eight full days of barbells, bumper plates, and big lifts — including appearances from the five members on the Team USA Olympic roster.
Here are the podium results from the Senior National Championships this year. For complete rankings and results from the Youth and Junior events in Pittsburgh, refer to USA Weightlifting‘s results books here.
Men’s Results
Below are the Men’s weightlifting podium results from the 2024 USAW National Championships.
Editor’s Note: The formatting below reads as, “[Athlete Name] — [Total] (Snatch/Clean & Jerk). All weights are listed in kilograms.
Here, you can find the Women’s podium results from all Senior weight class events at the 2024 USAW National Championships.
Editor’s Note: The formatting below reads as, “[Athlete Name] — [Total] (Snatch/Clean & Jerk). All weights are listed in kilograms.
45 Kilograms
Cicely Kyle — 162 (74/88)
Virginie Beljour — 145 (64/81)
Sarah Morris — 126 (56/70)
49 Kilograms
Kaylin White — 166 (73/93)
Omayraliz Ortiz — 157(68/89)
Rachel Schwartz — 155 (67/88)
55 Kilograms
Jourdan Delacruz — 198(84/114)
Asia Gonzalez — 187 (80/107)
Kayla Cocker — 182 (84/98)
59 Kilograms
Charley Leonard — 194(84/110)
Lily Salsbury — 194 (83/111)
Angelique Matsushima — 187 (85/102)
64 Kilograms
Carly Audia — 207(93/114)
Casey Aguilar-Gervase — 206 (95/111)
Rebecca Rouse — 206 (92/114)
71 Kilograms
Olivia Reeves — 271 (120/151)
Meredith Alwine — 227 (100/127)
Alexia Gonzalez — 214 (97/117)
76 Kilograms
Mariah Park — 230 (100/130)
Estelle Rohr — 221 (96/125)
Darci Molina — 219 (96/123)
81 Kilograms
Anna McElderry— 226(103/123)
Jessie Stemo — 222 (100/122)
Harley Creech — 206 (92/114)
87 Kilograms
Kateri Peters — 229(99/130)
Victoria Jefferson — 220 (98/122)
Laura Alexander — 218 (93/125)
+87 Kilograms
Mary Theisen-Lappen — 273(118/155)
Caitlin Thilges — 232 (96/136)
Katlin Kallmeyer — 227 (97/130)
More Weightlifting News
Editor’s Note: BarBend is the Official Media Partner of USA Weightlifting. The two organizations maintain editorial independence unless otherwise noted on specific content projects.
When looking for the right treadmill for your fitness goals, the more research you do, the more questions you may have! If one of those questions concerns the average weight of a treadmill, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want one of the best treadmills that money can buy or something that’s simply “good enough for now,” a machine’s weight can help you decide whether or not you’ll need a set of movers when bringing it home. But it can also give you some clues as to what it can offer on top of the standard cardio benefits, such as a lifted mood, weight loss, and a strengthened heart. (1)
This guide will walk you through the average weight for a variety of treadmills, from budget buys and walking pads to commercial machines. We’ll also discuss what features tend to add or detract from a treadmill’s overall weight. After testing out nearly 50 treadmills, it’s safe to say our team of experts knows these machines. Read on as we break down the average weight of a treadmill.
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level-1 instructor. She reviewed the research we cite and the information we provide to help ensure we’re delivering helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations.
Importance of Knowing Treadmill Weight
While the weight of a treadmill isn’t the only factor that speaks to its stability, footprint, and ease of transport, it’s a useful metric that can give you a vague understanding of what to expect from your exercise equipment.
Setup and Transportation
While many companies offer delivery services so you don’t have to lug a treadmill home in the back of your Prius, knowing its can help you decide whether or not you’ll want to splurge for in-home delivery and build support.
Bringing home a piece of fitness equipment that weighs under 150 pounds will often require limited setup, but machines closer to 200 pounds and more tend to have multiple steps to put the machine together and may be too heavy for one person to accomplish.
Stability and Durability
A treadmill’s weight can often be a solid indicator of how stable it’ll be while you’re on top of it running wind sprints. It can also speak to its overall durability.
Tester trying steepest incline on NordicTrack treadmill.
Heavier models, like many of the best treadmills for running, often provide more stability for the user and help limit the likelihood of shifting or tipping during your workout. “The best treadmills tend to weigh 250 pounds or more because they’re designed to withstand sprinting speeds without wobbling or shaking,” says Amanda Capritto, BarBend expert reviewer and certified personal trainer.
Load Limits
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, live loads include furniture, people, non-fixed equipment, storage, and even treadmills within your home. (2)
When thinking of a treadmill as a live load, you’ll want to limit the weight on the floor to 30 or 40 pounds per square feet, depending on the room where you want to keep your equipment. The average treadmill takes up roughly 15 square feet, meaning its max allowable weight at that footprint can be 450 or 600 pounds, respectively. You’ll also want to factor in the user’s weight, as they’ll be running on top of it.
Our tester unfolding the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill
Of course, you’ll want to verify live load limits with your local building code when bringing any piece of heavy equipment into your home.
Types of Treadmills and Their Average Weight
Folding treadmills, walking treadmills, incline treadmills — these cardio machines come in a variety of shapes and sizes with a host of different capabilities. Based on our research, the average weight of a treadmill is around 200 pounds, but that number can vary wildly based on the type of treadmill.
Under-Desk Treadmills
Under-desk treadmills have taken the world by storm as more and more people work remotely. These treadmills tend to weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, which makes moving them around relatively easy for most users.
They weigh less than full-sized treadmills because of their smaller footprint, with many models measuring just 6 inches in height. They also tend to have smaller motors of around 2.5 HP, shorter treadmill decks, and limited conveniences, meaning you won’t typically find consoles, handrails, water bottle holders, and more on these machines.
A BarBend tester using the GoPlus treadmill.
“Treadmills for walking can be smaller and less expensive than treadmills designed for running or sprinting. They tend to be simpler in nature. In fact, some walking treadmills are more like walking pads and don’t even have a console,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer and a certified personal trainer.
Budget Treadmills
Budget treadmills offer an accessible entry point for those who want to dip their toes into treadmill training. They tend not to be as powerful as pricier models, so they’re great for those interested in low-intensity, low-impact training, whether that’s walking or jogging.
The best budget treadmills that we’ve spent time on tend to weigh between 150 to 250 pounds — that’s nearly 100 to 200 pounds lighter than many commercial treadmills. This lighter build often includes fewer advanced features, such as touchscreens, 60-inch running belts, and continuous horsepower motors.
“From an equipment perspective, budget treadmills are likely to break down sooner than higher-end, more expensive models,” says Capritto.”It’s very true that you get what you pay for when it comes to home gym equipment.”
Manual Treadmills
Manual treadmills don’t require electricity, as your forward force against the treadmill’s belt helps to propel the belt. Similar to air bikes, the harder you work, the faster this machine goes. On a manual treadmill, runners can go from a jog to a sprint and back to a jog at their own pace, with no need to wait for the motor to adjust. (3)
Our tester lifting the AssaultRunner Elite.
While these heavy-duty cardio machines tend not to feature built-in touchscreens or a heavy motor, many can weigh over 300 pounds. This is because they are built to survive for up to 20 years or more, featuring steel frames, corrosion-resistant hardware, slatted-belt running decks suitable for high-speed sprinting, and weight capacities that can handle between 300 and 450 pounds.
Commercial-Grade Treadmills
“Built to last a lifetime, commercial treadmills are durable. They are designed to withstand multiple exercise sessions per day on a daily basis. This means you’re much less likely to need a repair compared to if you purchase a budget treadmill,” says Capritto.
The best commercial treadmills, like the ones you’ve seen at your local gym, are designed with huge, heavy builds because they need to support continuous daily use from a variety of different athletes. These treadmills tend to weigh between 250 and 400 pounds.
Our tester unfolding the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill.
While their sturdy builds contribute to their overall weight, these machines also tend to feature large touchscreens to view programming, powerful motors of 3.0 CHP or higher, and incline and decline capabilities. “Because they are so durable, commercial treadmills provide a supreme running experience,” says Capritto. “On the best commercial treadmills, you’ll experience little to no shaking or trembling even at your top running speeds.”
Factors Influencing Treadmill Weight
There are several features that can influence the weight of a treadmill, from the motor and deck size to the materials incorporated into its build. You’ll also want to factor in accouterments like consoles, touchscreens, speakers, water bottle holders, and handrails. We get into the main factors below.
User Weight Limit
High-quality frames utilize steel and aluminum, and while they can support a higher weight limit, they’ll result in a heavier build. Treadmills with plastic parts tend to weigh less than heavy-duty models, but they’re also going to be less durable. The choice of material used in construction can be easily assessed by taking a look at the treadmill’s weight limit.
Treadmills with weight limits between 300 and 400 pounds are usually fortified by steel and other tough components, while treadmills under that threshold are likely to feature less-durable materials in their builds.
Touchscreens
“Usually, the deck and base is what adds the most weight to the treadmill,” said Samuelle Crutchfield, a fitness consultant with Johnson Fitness & Wellness Store. “But if you’re going to want a treadmill with a screen to stream programming, that’s also going to start adding weight to the machine.”
The 14-inch HD touchscreen on the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
Touchscreens can range in size from 7 inches up to 32 inches, and the larger a screen gets, the more weight will be added to the front of your treadmill. We love the immersiveness of a built-in touchscreen during a workout, but once they reach 20 inches or more, they’re going to become more and more cumbersome during transport.
Treadmill Motors
With great treadmill motor power comes great responsibility — or at least, more weight. We most often see HP (horsepower) motors on walking treadmills and CHP (continuous horsepower) motors on high-quality treadmills. CHP motors are more powerful, and often heavier, than HP motors.
Additional Features
Incline mechanisms, safety bars, heart rate monitors, speakers, and deck cushioning are a few of the additional features that can contribute to the total weight of a treadmill. More features means more weight, which is why many of the most lightweight walking treadmills are simple in their design, providing little more than a walking deck with speeds that cap out around 4 miles per hour.
Final Word
“If you need a treadmill that you can move on your own, you’ll likely need something that weighs less than 200 pounds and has mounted transport wheels,” says Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer. However, keep in mind that the most powerful, feature-rich, and durable treadmills will often weigh more than 250 pounds.
Our tester on the NordicTrack Commercial 2450.
Regardless of your fitness level, once you’ve settled on your desired training, understanding the average weight of a treadmill can help you find the right home treadmill for you. While heavier machines tend to be better machines, the best treadmill for you is the one that can support your training, suit your budget, and fit comfortably in your home (without falling through the floor).
FAQs: Average Weight of a Treadmill
What is the average weight of a treadmill?
After factoring in walking pads, budget buys, commercial machines, and manual treadmills, the average weight of a treadmill is around 200 pounds. However, you’ll find options that range from around 55 to 300-plus pounds.
Are treadmills heavy to move?
Treadmills are much larger and more difficult to move than something like an exercise bike, though most machines have transport wheels so you can tip the treadmill up and roll it out of the way. If you’re concerned about transporting your treadmill, look for smaller profiles — like one of the best walking treadmills — or budget buys with weights around 100 to 150 pounds.
Is a heavier treadmill better?
Generally speaking, yes, a heavier treadmill is a better treadmill. The heavier the machine, the more likely it’s going to feel steady and wobble-free during runs, thus supporting a wider range of treadmill workouts.
References
Hespanhol Junior, L. C., Pillay, J. D., van Mechelen, W., & Verhagen, E. (2015). Meta-Analyses of the Effects of Habitual Running on Indices of Health in Physically Inactive Adults. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 45(10), 1455–1468. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-015-0359-y
Design loads for residential buildings. (1999). In Residential Structural Design Guide. https://www.huduser.gov/publications/pdf/res2000_2.pdf
Guido, N. (2022, June 15). How to use a manual treadmill properly. Tru Grit Fitness. https://trugrit-fitness.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-a-manual-treadmill-properly
Reyna Perez Mecalco has won the 2024 World Classic Pro Bikini division show. The show was held in Chattanooga, TN, on Saturday, Jun. 22, 2024.
Mecalco was one of 24 competitors that faced the fans and judges. She left with the championship and qualification to compete in the 2024 Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.
2024 World Classic Pro Results
Silver went to Jodie Yuncker, and Judith Ceballos settled for third place. The final placings are below, courtesy of the IFBB Pro League:
Mecalco is now qualified for the Olympia for the second straight year. She placed outside the top 15 in 2023 and third at the 2024 Dallas Pro on June 15, 2024. All the judges, including Sandy Williamson, the head judge, gave her first-place votes in this show.
Second Place — Jodie Yuncker
Yuncker received all runner-up votes in the only scored round. She was making her 2024 debut and her return to the stage since the 2022 Bikini Olympia. There is no word on if or when she will compete again this season, but she has until Sept. 15, 2024, to win a pro show to join Mecalco in Las Vegas.
Third Place — Judith Ceballos
Judith Ceballows was an amateur in 2023 but turned pro and made her pro debut by the end of that year. This was the start of her first full season in the pro ranks. She and fourth-place finisher Maxine Alexandra Somov were separated by one point on the scorecards.
More Bodybuilding News
Featured Image: @npcworldwideofficial on Instagram
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When building out your home gym, the best rowing machines can be excellent for delivering low-impact training opportunities rich with full-body engagement… and there’s practically a silhouette for every setting. For example, the Sunny Health and Fitness Rower (also known as the SF-RW5801) offers up 16 levels of high-quality magnetic resistance and a compact, foldable frame for less than $300 — a sliver of the average cost of rowers, many of which cost more than $1,000.
We’ve tested more than 15 of the top rowers, including the SF-RW5801, and feel it’s a good beginner profile, especially for athletes training in tighter quarters. The weight capacity, ergonomics, and flywheel performance are all efficient, but those wanting a tech-riddled silhouette with a roster of integrative workout programs will need to up their standards (and budget). Considering the SF-RW5801 for your training space? Let’s hop into our Sunny Health and Fitness rowing machine review and get down to the finer details.
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
This compact and foldable Sunny Health & Fitness rowing machine can provide a challenge with 16 levels of magnetic resistance. A budget, bare-bones unit, this well-made rower is ideal for those tight on space but with a desire to sweat.
About Our Expert
This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, a certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level-1 instructor, and Lauren Keary, BarBend editorial team member and former collegiate rower. They’ve reviewed the research we cite and also offered explanations on what to look for when purchasing a rowing machine — whether from Sunny Health and Fitness or another brand within the fitness equipment category.
Main Takeaways
The foldable slide rail creates a storage footprint of 5.8 square feet — roughly the equivalent to an average coffee table. (1)
Athletes that prefer an immersive touchscreen display will be underwhelmed by the SF-RW5801’s basic LCD console, which doesn’t feature preset programming.
At less than $300, the warranty is not substantial at three years for the frame and 180 days for other parts and components.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Rower Highlights
Price: $299.99
Product Dimensions: 77” L X 23” W X 22.5” H
Product Weight: 49.6lbs
Weight Capacity: 285lbs
Resistance Type: Magnetic
Resistance Levels: 16
This Sunny Health and Fitness rower comes in at roughly $300, a steal considering many rowers cost more than $1,000. The SF-RW5801 is also a compact rowing machine with a footprint of 12.3 square feet.
These dimensions, along with the foldable slide rail and lightweight 46.3-pound profile, can be excellent for those looking at rowing machines for apartments. According to Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer, “You’ll need to ensure the machine will fit in your space and it’s relatively easy to move if you won’t be able to leave it stationary.”
The SF-RW5801 also operates with a magnetic resistance system, which helps cut the noise factor down when compared to a water or air rower. The 16 levels of magnetic tension are toggleable via an ergonomic knob below the LCD display, meaning you’ll need to adjust your settings before getting into your stroke motion.
Speaking of the display, this Sunny Health and Fitness rower does not feature any preset programming, but the digital monitor is capable of displaying key workout metrics, including time, stroke count, total count, and calories burned. There’s also a built-in device holder at the top of the center console if you prefer to train to the tune of your favorite best fitness app.
This media shelf is right in front of a water bottle holder, which our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, said was more of a nuisance than a convenience in training. “It’s practically impossible to grab your beverage without knocking your phone or tablet out of position,” they commented.
In terms of comfort and body positioning, the SF-RW5801 is surprisingly stable and cozy during sessions thanks to its wide, well-cushioned seat and non-slip foot pedals with adjustable straps.
The weight capacity of 285 pounds should also be accommodating enough for a wide range of athletes — we’ve determined that the industry standard weight rating for most rowers is at least 250 pounds. However, the SF-RW5801 sits less than 12 inches off the ground, so athletes dealing with joint issues may find it difficult to get into and out of the saddle for a given workout.
Pros
Budget-friendly price point at less than $300
Stable frame can support up to 285 pounds
Foldable slide rail and front transport wheels improve portability
Cons
43.5-inch slide rail inseam may be too short for some
No preset workouts available across the center console
Water bottle holder interferes with the built-in tablet holder
Training With the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Rower
We used the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 for multiple weeks, examining its performance, features, and ergonomics through multiple full-body workouts and low-impact cardio sessions. We also maneuvered this magnetic rowing machine routinely around our training space to get a better feel for its portability and storage perks.
We used a multi-point methodology to rate the SF-RW5801 in categories such as overall footprint, available tech, dynamic programming, durability, and more, scoring them on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). For further information on how we trial and test products, read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.
In-Training Ergonomics
In our experience, we’ve found that the best budget home gym equipment tends to be less stable or cozy than higher-priced profiles given that many silhouettes skimp on material quality for the sake of keeping costs low. While the SF-RW5801 definitely falls into that wallet-friendly price range, our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, was pleased with the design.
“I really liked the wider padded seat that had enough cushioning to keep me supported during longer workouts,” they stated. “Plus, I felt no wobbliness or shaking during sessions, even when cranking up the resistance for higher-intensity intervals.”
That said, we rated the durability at 3 out of 5 for this Sunny Health and Fitness rower given the abundance of plastic components across the profile. Yes, this does help keep the overall weight of the machine below 50 pounds, but plastic can be more easily damaged over time than metal, especially when routinely rolling or moving your machine in and out of storage.
We scored the ergonomics at 3.5 out of 5 due to how low this magnetic rower sits to the ground. We had no issues bending down to get on and off, but we also realize that not every athlete has the same range of mobility.
With a slide rail inseam of 43.5 inches, this is also a shorter rower than other profiles we’ve tested. Taller athletes may feel cramped when trying to perform a full stroke with the SF-RW5801.
The SF-RW5801 is rather simple when it comes to workout performance. Sure, there are 16 levels of magnetic resistance, and we had no issues with the flywheel or stroke length smoothness. However, we scored the overall workout experience at 3.5 out of 5 since there are no preset programs to choose from across the LCD monitor. You’re inherently stuck in manual mode unless you prop your smart device across the media shelf for more interactive programming.
We appreciate the fact that Sunny Health and Fitness offers this device holder, but our tester did note that its placement can be troublesome. If you store your water bottle in the featured holder at the front of the machine, you can easily knock over your device when reaching for your beverage. “It’s a real inconvenience when trying to grab a quick sip only to have your phone go tumbling,” they added.
Storage Features
Like other silhouettes from the brand — including a wide range of Sunny Health and Fitness exercise bikes — the SF-RW5801 rower is rather compact, taking up just 12.30 square feet of space while in use. For reference, that’s less of a footprint than your average loveseat. (2) While small-statured in its own right, we also appreciated the portability and storage components built into this machine, most notably the front transport wheels and foldable slide rail.
This folding frame essentially eliminates the slide rail length (43 inches) from the footprint, making for a smaller, more stowable profile overall. “I also liked how easy this machine was to move thanks to its sub-50-pound weight,” said our tester, who rated the portability and footprint at 4.25 out of 5. “If you’re an able-bodied athlete, I have no doubts that you’ll be able to move this rower in and out of storage with little issues.”
What to Consider Before Buying the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Rower
As with any cardio machine, there are a few additional characteristics beyond your budget to consider before adding a rower such as the SF-RW5801 to your shopping cart. Below are a handful of factors we recommend pondering over after testing over 15 different rowing machine silhouettes.
Resistance Type
Amanda Capritto, our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer, states that your rower’s resistance mechanism should be the first thing you hone in on when looking to purchase a rower for home use.
“The flywheel mechanism dictates the rower type,” she says. “Air rowers use fan flywheels; water rowing machines use fan flywheels against the resistance of water in a tank; magnetic rowers use electromagnetic resistance; and hydraulic rowers, which are less expensive but functionally limited compared to the other three types, use hydraulic cylinders in the handles to create resistance.”
The SF-RW5801 from Sunny Health and Fitness utilizes magnetic resistance, which can be a great solution for those wanting a quiet workout experience that won’t disturb your fellow housemates or napping children. However, the stroke movement may feel more synthetic or artificial than other rowing machine types when compared to the sensation of on-water rowing — there are few brands that have been able to mimic that experience with a magnetic flywheel.
Available Space
In addition to the flywheel, you’ll also need to consider how much space you have available for your new piece of best home gym equipment. Rowers, given their longer slide rails, can oftentimes take up a good chunk of space, so we recommend paying close attention to the listed dimensions before finalizing your shipping method.
Plus, it can be wise to actually measure your available home gym space to ensure you have enough room to accommodate this all-new rower with some extra room to operate around the profile.
Available Programming
While a structural frame and smooth stroke motion is pivotal to your rowing experience, you should also consider how you want to go about your given workouts. In today’s day and age, rowers can come equipped with integrations from some of the best online workout programs offering live and on-demand training programs.
Viewable through large touchscreens, these machines can help you keep sessions fresh and engaging, albeit for an additional cost. Many digital fitness services charge a monthly subscription rate for access to their workout library.
If you’re interested or rely on digital training tools to power you through weekly workout routines, this Sunny Health and Fitness rower may be a little underwhelming. There are no preset workout programs available across the monitor, and the DIY streaming setup can be seen as too much of a burden for some.
Storage Needs
In relation to your rower’s footprint, you’ll also want to think about your storage needs. Can your machine be left in a seated, standard position without interfering with regular foot traffic within your home, or will you need to regain some floor space after your workouts are complete?
If you need to make the most of your available floor plan or live in tighter quarters like an apartment, we recommend searching for a rower with vertical storage capabilities. You could also opt for one of the best foldable rowing machines.
Thankfully, the SF-RW5801 does feature a foldable slide rail, making it a top pick for those trying to pack in as much workout performance as possible across their smaller space.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Rower Vs. The Competition
After testing more than 15 different rowing machine silhouettes over the years, we feel we’ve become aware of which profiles fit certain fitness needs best. The SF-RW5801 from Sunny Health and Fitness is one of the best budget-friendly rowing machines we’ve come across, but there are some comparable models. Below are two similar rowers we feel are worth considering when thinking about this Sunny Health and Fitness rower — the Concept2 RowErg and Echelon Row.
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801
Concept2 RowErg
Echelon Row
Price:
$299.99
$990
$999.99
Product Dimensions:
77” L X 23” W X 22.5” H
95” L x 24” W x 14” H
84” L x 21” W x 45” H
Product Weight:
49.6lbs
57lbs
106.5lbs
Weight Capacity:
285lbs
500lbs
300lbs
Resistance Type:
Magnetic
Air
Magnetic
Resistance Levels:
16
N/A
32
Naturally, you’ll immediately notice that the SF-RW5801 trumps both the RowErg and Echelon Row in the price department, but these two profiles have the upper hand when it comes to weight capacity. All three silhouettes feature added components for easier storage, too, with the SF-RW5801 and Echelon Row boasting foldable slide rails and the RowErg breaking down into two pieces.
Speaking specifically to the Concept2 RowErg, this rower also operates via air, which can be suitable for certain athletic needs. “Air rowers are sturdy and provide adjustable resistance that can emulate the resistance you’d feel on the water,” says Lauren Keary, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer. “They’re a bit noisy, but when it comes to a reliable and affordable machine, an air rower is the way to go.”
As far as the Echelon Row is concerned, this can be a suitable option for athletes wanting a wider range of resistance levels. The 32 levels of adjustable resistance can accommodate a wider range of training intensities. However, you’ll need to pay more of a premium to double your available resistance — the SF-RW5801 is one-third the price of the Echelon Row.
Other Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machines Worth Considering
It takes one look through the Sunny Health and Fitness rowing machine roster to determine that the SF-RW5801 is not your only option. Below are two additional rowers we’ve tested from the brand with a brief explanation on what they can deliver to your training space.
SF-RW5515: This magnetic rower from Sunny Health and Fitness is very similar to the SF-RW5801, but features a lower weight rating — 250 pounds as opposed to 285 pounds — and a higher price point ($399.99 as opposed to $299.99).
SF-RW5639SMART: The SF-RW5639SMART operates using a hydraulic system for added resistance, which can be great for keeping the profile compact. It does, however, compromise the overall feel of each stroke in comparison to on-water rowing.
Places to Buy the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Rower
The SF-RW5801 rower is available directly from the Sunny Health and Fitness retail site. You can also find this machine on Amazon, which can be beneficial for those trying to track down the best deals possible.
Ordering the SF-RW5801 is a simple endeavor. When purchasing this rower from the brand’s site, you also have the option to choose an extended shipping protection package for an additional $5. This service helps ensure you receive your machine and covers any potential losses due to in-shipping damage, theft, or misplacement during transport.
Assembling the SF-RW5801 is also a breeze, according to our tester. “All you really need to do is attach the rail, seat, base legs, and footrests and you’re ready to go.”
Warranties
Despite its lower price tag, the SF-RW5801 comes with a warranty package to help cover any issues after your initial purchase. That said, though, the service is somewhat underwhelming when compared to the industry standard. The brand offers three-year support for the frame and 180-day coverage for other parts and components, whereas most rowing machines offer five to 10 years on the frame, two years for parts, and a year for labor.
Company Information
Founded in 2002, Sunny Health and Fitness has been making high-quality fitness equipment that caters to budding home gym enthusiasts and elite professionals alike. The brand’s emphasis on craftsmanship, performance, and affordability make them a trustworthy option for home gym equipment, including rowers, treadmills, recumbent bikes, indoor stationary bikes, and more.
To contact the Sunny Health and Fitness brand, you have multiple pathways to choose from. The brand’s site has a live chat feature, or you can reach them through their support center or via phone (1-877-90SUNNY).
In Conclusion
For athletes wanting a budget-minded rowing machine for their home gym space, the SF-RW5801 can deliver with an impressive sense of sturdiness and convenient foldable slide rail. While there aren’t any integrated programming options across the monitor, you can follow along to your favorite trainer-led workouts via the built-in device holder — just be sure to put your water bottle by your side rather than in the cup holder itself.
Of course, before adding this compact, affordable rower to your cart you’ll need to make sure of a few things, including how much space you can afford, which resistance type is right for your needs, and how much engagement you desire from your training program. Once you have these factors (and your budget) in order, this Sunny Health and Fitness rower is worth a glance or two as you look to build out that home training center of your dreams.
Sunny Health & Fitness Rower FAQs
Does the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 fold up?
Yes, the SF-RW5801 features a foldable slide rail that can shrink the footprint from 12.3 square feet down to 5.8 square feet for more convenient storage.
How much does the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 cost?
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 is available for $299.99.
Which muscles are worked with the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RW5801 rowing machine?
Rowing as a fitness activity can be a full-body experience with muscles including the thighs, abdomen, obliques, arms, chest, and glutes getting some movement and engagement in each completed stroke.
References
The Ultimate Guide to end table & coffee table sizes. Wayfair. (n.d.). https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/the-ultimate-guide-to-end-table-coffee-table-sizes-T12889
Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
The 2024 Body Be 1 Classic Pro was held on Saturday, June 22, 2024, in Montgomery, AL. It was a 2024 Olympia qualifying contest. If not qualified previously, the four IFBB Pro League contest winners qualified for the 2024 Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024.
The winners of those contests were Tyler Johnson (Classic Physique), Christopher Barr (Men’s Physique), Cerise Decardenas (Fitness), and Nadine Claudia Huber (Figure).
2024 Body Be 1 Classic Results
The full results for all four contests held in Montgomery are below:
Classic Physique
Tyler Johnson (Canada)
Barry Irving (United States)
Andrew Wilson (United States)
Terrence Bonds (United States)
David Anthony Tassin (United States)
Louiege Bascog (United States)
Austin Phillips (United States)
Carlos Pinto (United States)
Bassem Ashouri (United States)
*Joshua Langbein (United States) was on the roster but did not compete.
Men’s Physique
Christopher Barr (United States)
Chevy Phillips (Canada)
Antoine Weatherspoon (United States)
John Sarmiento (United States)
Winston Sullivan (United States)
Youcef Anava Djoudi (France)
Tyler Smith (United Kingdom)
Brian Motley (United States)
Raphael Souza (Brazil)
Tre Trotter (United States)
Torre Washington (United States)
Jacques Lewis (United States)
Darnell Dean (United States)
Peter Burnett (United States)
Louis Caruso (United States)
Tied for 16th
Paul Lupinacci (United States)
Hosea Murphy (United States)
*Hossein Karimi (Iran) was on the roster but did not compete.
Johnson scored his second career pro win in his first contest of the 2024 season. He had previously won the 2022 Toronto Pro Supershow.
This was a close contest. Johnson and runner-up Barry Irving were separated by one point on the scorecards. Nonetheless, Johnson can make his second career Olympia appearance in Las Vegas this year. He tied for 16th place in 2022.
Men’s Physique Winner — Christopher Barr
This was Barr’s 2024 season debut. The prejudging round was the only scored round in this event, and he won it with a perfect score. If Barr competes in the 2024 Olympia, it will be his first time on that stage.
Fitness Winner — Cerise Decardenas
Decardenas returned to the stage after a year-plus-long absence. She wasted no time scoring a win and reserving her place on the 2024 Fitness Olympia stage. This is her first pro victory and Olympia debut if she competes.
Figure Winner — Nadine Claudia Huber
Huber received unanimous first-place votes on the scorecards from the judges and is on the roster for the 2024 Figure Olympia. This was only her second pro show, following a third-place finish at the 2024 Empro Classic Pro.
