Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

For some background- I've been working out for about 5 years now. I do running and strength training, and like to switch it up in order to avoid my body getting use to one thing. For the up coming year, I wanted to switch from running to other forms of cardio. Of course I'm not looking to spend hundreds, and need something that is fun as well as a workout. The reason I went with this machine is because of the way you move your arms out in circular motions. It actually feels like rowing, vs. just the pulling of other row machines. I read a million reviews, even beyond amazon customers- and I still went with this one for the price. The seat is fine- I don't have any issues with it. Other reviews talk about issues with the straps (feet), however- you can put the straps lower than the top slot (read the directions). I even saw videos where people say it's not much of a work out and it's so easy - going back and forth rather quickly like it's nothing. I'm sorry- but that's just wrong. This machine, when you use proper form and put the resistance up- is quite the work out. My legs and arms get a good burn- and I usually go for 40mins. I don't have great posture, so I have to remind myself to sit up straight and not curve my back- but even then, my back gets sore from the motion of circular rowing towards my shoulder blades. It's great because I'm not a fan of upper body, and this incorporates that without me hating life. Half way through, I get up and stretch out a bit. So I haven't experienced the resistance coming down as mentioned by others. But it really is a great workout. Slow and steady, good form- and you'll feel the burn.