LOOKING FOR A full-body workout that’s low-impact but can brings big results? If you don’t already own a rowing machine, it might just be the cardio device you’re seeking. Not only are rowing machines friendly on your joints, but they make it easy to mix up your workout load, whether you tackle lengthy long-distance sessions or go all out on a series of powerful sprints.
If you’re looking to score your first rowing machine or upgrade an older model, Hydrow, one of our top-tested rowing machine brands, recently released the limited-edition, no-membership Hydrow Core, also available for purchase on Amazon. Complete with the same editor-approved design as the brand’s Pro model, the Core Rower comes with 30 self-guided rows, allowing you to take classes on the device without locking into a membership (which can save you $44/month).
After testing both the Hydrow Pro and Wave models, our editors dubbed Hydrow’s machines “the best magnetic resistance rowing experience on the market,” largely due to the brand’s video on-demand classes, which are included as a complimentary feature on this limited-edition Core model. The workout experience has been praised by expert rowers of all kinds, which should come at no surprise, since Hydrow made a point to gather insights from Olympic athletes during the design process.
“It feels as if you’re out on the water, complete with videos shot on lakes and rivers,” fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S said about the Hydrow Wave. “The end result: a tranquil row session.”
With the Core model, shoppers no longer have to commit to a monthly membership (saving $44/month) in order to take advantage of these lifelike rows, which can be done at any pace. That being said, should you eventually wish to add Hydrow’s premium membership, which includes instructor-led workouts, badges, milestones, and other features, the Core rower is still compatible.
Having been dubbed the best rowing machine for small spaces by our editors, Hydrow’s machines are also excellent options for anyone who might be low on home gym space. When paired with the Upright Storage Kit, the Core rower can be stored vertically, freeing up room for floor workouts.
Complete with a 22-inch-rotating touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity that allows users to pair their fitness trackers and wireless headphones, it’s a solid pick for anyone looking for a high-tech option. What’s more, Hydrow claims that its machines’ electromagnetic drag system is nearly silent, so you won’t have to stress about bothering your family or neighbors while rowing—our editors vouch for it being very quiet.
Hydrow’s Core Rower is only available for a limited time, so if you’ve been considering adding a rowing machine to your home gym, don’t delay.
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Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world.
Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.
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