This rower immediately appealed to me because it is a full body workout that is easy on the knees. I built about half of the rower myself until my husband took over. I do not often build the things in our house. Yet I found this pretty easy to put together and follow the directions. I only stopped to take over toddler care duty. From my part building I would say this comes with all the parts you need. However if you have your own tools that makes it way better and easier. I used one of our own ratchets and a ratcheting screwdriver. That lowered my frustration. As for actually using this the computer is pretty low tech compared to what is at the gym. However this works like a normal rowing machine. I did feel sore after using this but I am also really out of shape. Definitely this works for people just getting into fitness and working out. Plus it stores very easily.