Hydrow Wave is a cutting-edge rowing machine that revolutionizes the way you experience indoor workouts. Engineered with state-of-the-art electromagnetic technology, this sleek and stylish rower simulates the resistance of water, delivering an immersive and realistic rowing experience like no other.
Featuring a built-in 22-inch (56-cm) touchscreen display, the Hydrow Wave offers a wide range of streaming workouts filmed in picturesque locations around the world. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the water as you engage in invigorating rowing sessions from the comfort of your home.
Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Hydrow Wave:
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design: The Hydrow Wave boasts an aesthetic appeal that seamlessly blends with any home decor.
- Comfortable, quiet, and user-friendly: Designed with your convenience in mind, this rowing machine provides a smooth and noiseless workout experience.
- Diverse workout options with stunning backdrops: Immerse yourself in a variety of streaming workouts set against breathtaking natural scenery.
- Engaging coaches: Expert trainers will guide you through each workout, ensuring you stay motivated and achieve your fitness goals.
- Comprehensive full-body workout: Rowing engages multiple muscle groups, making it an efficient and effective exercise for building strength.
- Low impact exercise: Enjoy the benefits of a rigorous workout without putting excessive strain on your joints.
Cons:
- High price point: The Hydrow Wave comes with a substantial price tag, exceeding $2,000.
- Lack of diversity in coaching lineup: While the coaches are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, there is room for more representation in terms of age and body diversity.
- Additional monthly membership cost: The initial purchase does not include the monthly membership fee, which amounts to $38 per month or $456 per year.
Examining the Specifications of the Hydrow Wave
The Hydrow Wave is ingeniously designed to optimize performance while minimizing space requirements. Surprisingly compact, it measures 86 inches (218 cm) in length, 25 inches (63 cm) in width, and 47 inches (119 cm) in height. Weighing 145 pounds (approximately 66 kg), the machine is equipped with wheels for easy maneuverability. Plus the HydroWave can be stored vertically with the help of an upright storage conversion kit, allowing for efficient use of space.
The Financial Investment
It’s important to consider the financial commitment associated with the HydroWave. In addition to the base price, there are various accessories available for purchase on the company’s website. These include a performance foam roller ($40), yoga block ($30), multi-use workout mat ($80), heart rate monitor ($90), wireless headphones ($150), machine mat ($90), upright storage kit ($80), and multi-resistance band kit ($100).
To simplify the process, the company offers preset packages, such as the essentials package, which includes the machine, a machine mat, a heart rate monitor, and 1:1 personal coaching. This package is priced at $2,625 at the time of publication. It’s essential to factor in the ongoing monthly membership cost, which grants access to the extensive library of workouts via the machine or mobile app.
An intriguing advantage of the HydroWave membership is the ability to create multiple profiles. This allows each user in your household to have personalized workouts and track their progress individually.
The Unparalleled User Experience
As a first-time user, I found the HydroWave incredibly user-friendly. Unlike traditional rowing machines I’ve encountered at the gym, the Hydrow Wave surpassed my expectations. The cushioned seat and realistic drag create an authentic water-rowing sensation, while the machine operates quietly and smoothly.
Exercising on this machine a delight, and I find myself eagerly anticipating my rowing sessions. The workouts are challenging, engaging both the cardiovascular system and a remarkable 86% of the body’s muscles. Notably, despite its cardio focus, rowing also doubles as strength training, effectively targeting the core, legs, upper back, and shoulders. Achieving a perfect balance between accessibility and challenge, the HydroWave offers an exercise regimen suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels.
In my personal experience, the Hydrow Wave played a crucial role in my recovery journey. After sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear from a skiing accident, I utilized it for pre-habilitation exercises, following a few weeks of rest to allow the swelling to subside. The low-impact nature of rowing provided a safe and effective avenue for strengthening my muscles before surgery.
Impressions of the Hydrow Wave
Initially, the Hydrow Wave guides users through three introductory workouts aimed at mastering proper technique, understanding on-screen metrics, and familiarizing oneself with the cues. While these initial sessions are essential for beginners, they don’t fully capture the excitement and energy present in the extensive exercise library.
Once I delved into the variety of workouts available, I discovered a seemingly endless array of options that kept me engaged and motivated. With new workouts continuously added to the collection, ranging from scenic “journey” rows lasting up to 59 minutes, to invigorating 15-minute yoga and Pilates mat sessions, or even quick 5-minute cooldowns and plank challenges, the Hydrow Wave offers something for everyone. The awe-inspiring locations featured in the workouts transport you to destinations such as New Orleans, the iconic Charles River, Lake Winnipesaukee, and Miami Beach, among others. I even found myself inspired to explore some of these places in real life.
The specifications are equally impressive, with dimensions measuring 86″L x 25″W x 47″H (218 cm x 63 cm x 119 cm) and a weight capacity of up to 375 pounds (170 kg). The 22-inch (56 cm) touchscreen display showcases a crystal-clear resolution of 1920 x 1080 Full HD, immersing users in an unparalleled visual experience.
One commendable aspect of the Hydrow Wave is the authenticity of the coaches, who bring a refreshing sense of genuineness to each workout. Free from scripted monologues and excessive production, the coaches often share personal stories or exhibit quirks like wearing mismatched socks. While the coaching lineup primarily consists of professional or collegiate rowers, their positive and engaging demeanor motivates users throughout their fitness journey.
However, one area for improvement lies in enhancing the diversity of the coaching team. It would be beneficial to include coaches from different age groups, providing representation and inspiration for individuals who may be older or seeking relatability in their fitness routine.
Nevertheless, the Hydrow Wave compensates for this by offering a leaderboard function that enables users to compete against others. By filtering the leaderboard to display individuals of the same gender and age range, you gain a clear understanding of your performance and can even interact and follow fellow Hydrow Wave members through the app.
While the machine itself is not portable, the app offers a practical solution for users on the go. The app provides 15-minute strengthening workouts guided by coaches, making it a convenient way to maintain your fitness routine while traveling.
Will I Continue to Use the Hydrow Wave?
Without a doubt, I will continue to use this machine in my fitness routine. In fact, I eagerly anticipate my next session, eagerly exploring the newly added workouts.
If you’ve ever tried the rowing machines at Anytime Fitness, you’ll love the Hydrow Wave.
Check out this Hydrow Wave rower review: