The word on the street is that rowing is the new spinning.  Studios mixing rowing with resistance are taking over New York City.  Why?  It’s a low impact, full body workout that torches major calories and strengthens the notoriously hard-to-tone midsection. And, regardless of rhythm, hand-eye coordination or fitness aptitude, pretty much everyone can do it.

Row House is the newest leader, launched last week near Columbus Circle.  Owned by my new favorite power couple Eric Von Frohlich and Debra Strougo Frohlich, and combined with the popular EVF CrossFit located on the lower level, it packs a one-two punch.

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The studio is spacious, with a mellow black/white/buttercup yellow color palette and an iconic “river” view.

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Each station is equipped with an erg (indoor rower), a mat for planks and pushups plus Sandbells (like slam balls, but won’t roll away) and an Ab Wedge. Bring a big eco-friendly water bottle.

I took Debra’s Full Body class, 10-minute row segments interwoven with arms, abs and squats. Before settling in at our ergs, we gathered around her tablet to watch a video tutorial showing proper rowing form (straight back, shoulders down and pulled back, torso shifting between 11 o’clock at the movement’s start and 1 o’clock at the finish).

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Debra also rowed along with us, on an erg in front, so everyone could emulate her and easily follow along.  The class was challenging but not overwhelming, the playlist was loud and fun. Afterward, I toweled off and stuck around to chat with Eric, Debra and friends who’d stopped by to check out the new hotspot.  Just like their decor, I found Row House’s staff and students to be warm and friendly.

Work in midtown?  Stop by on your way to/from the office.  Rowing at Row House is one revolution that you’ll want to be part of this spring.  Book your class here.

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5 thoughts on “Don’t Miss the Boat

  • March 16, 2014 at 8:03 PM
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    Nice!! Where is the Boat????

    Reply
  • March 16, 2014 at 9:42 PM
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    Sounds fun and I love that it is a full body workout!

    Reply
    • March 17, 2014 at 7:07 AM
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      It is! Thanks for reading.

      Reply

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