Rowing machines are an absolute killer when it comes to working out your arms, which is probably why there is never a huge line for this machine at the gym. However, it is an excellent way to get into fantastic shape without having to work out for hours on end, and it is especially great for at-home workouts. This new smart rower is like the Peloton of rowers, and it will get you pumped up about rowing along with your heart pumping.
From fitness tech company Hydrow has released a premium connected rowing machine that comes with an HD screen as well as live coaching sessions that happen to have been filmed in the most beautiful sceneries around the world.
The company points out that rowing engages about 86% of the body’s muscles and that a “Hydrow workout burns more calories than any other home workout.” Not too shabby!
The machine is a bit large, 218cm long and weighing 65 kilos. Though it is large, it’s still quite sleek which is good since it will take up a fair bit of space whichever room you decide to place it in. On the up side, you can store it upright in order to save space.
The rower is very well made, with 10 rollers on the seat and rail in order to give you the smoothest ride possible. The footrests are well spaced out and comfortable for any foot size.
The HD screen is 22 inches and sits on a hinged bracket that is adjustable to make your viewing as comfortable as possible while you row. There are also yoga, Pilates, and strength classes, and you’re able to turn the screen 25 degrees left and right for these classes.
The HD screen is touchscreen and uses Android technology. It is crisp and very responsive. Logging in is very simple and only takes a few short minutes. You can choose to opt into the $52 a month subscription that gives you acess to over 1000 pre-recorded classes as well as live classes.
You can view your metrics on the screen and they are displayed clearly: view the leaderboard, your duration, speed, store per minute, 500m split time, averages, total distance, calories, and heart rate.
There are 11 instructors that are professional rowers, ex Olympic athletes, and more that are all there to guide you to reaching your rowing and fitness goals.
The best part of the workout is being able to row along the Miami Beach canals or Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, and plenty more locations. This is a perfect way to escape and “travel” a bit while still getting your workout in, especially during lockdowns.