Rowing is the most effective full body workout and these are the best classes
Aside from Henley Regatta, rowing has had very little air time in the past; the machine has sat lonely in the gym corner with very little action.
However, in recent times there has been a surge of interest in the trusty rower because of its full-body health benefits. No other form of cardio training combines upper and lower body training with core into a total body workout. Rowing is said to work 85% of your muscles, which is similar to doing hundreds of low-weight reps on all your major muscle groups. In addition, working all your core muscles helps build body strength and posture. And finally, if we have not convinced you enough, rowing is a low-impact form of exercise that is much better for your joints than high impact styles of training so your older self will thank you for it.
You might already have your go-to studio and favourite instructors whose class you would never dream of missing but if you are looking to try something new, there is a new wave of studios proving that the humble rower is so much more versatile than you once thought. Here is a round-up of the best studios in London to give it a go. Strap your feet in, your body and mind will thank you for it.
Milo and the Bull
Where? Clapham Junction
What? Founded by George Lowe a previous Harlequins rugby player and Richie Steele who has a rowing and strength and conditioning background they are both incredibly passionate about teaching the benefits of a holistic approach to health and fitness. Milo has the very latest water based rowers so shut your eyes and you can actually hear the water and pretend you are rowing along the Thames- but don't let us fool you, this is no easy ride! Each day, the class structure changes to keep things fresh, whether it be a circuit based class incorporating the rower or a competitive element where two teams aim for the highest kilometre score. There are MyZone bands available to purchase if you want to add an extra competitive element amongst the class or track your RPM. Book into Harry or Josh's class if you are looking for a beasting!
Class Price? Intro offer: 3x classes for £30, memberships available
Metabolic London- Meta Row
Where? Mornington Crescent
What? Metabolic London, said to be 'Not for the faint-hearted' it is an open plan functional training gym space with no frills. The classes are a back to basic style training with every piece of kit you could ask for whether it be kettlebells, plyo boxes, battle ropes, sledges and of course the rower. The Meta Row class is a total body workout with rounds that switch up between time on the rower and circuit interval floor work. Each time you get back on the rower you are encouraged to beat your previous stats to ensure peak performance throughout the class. The final circuit is a real scorcher with plyo exercise and burpees so you will leave the studio with nothing left in the tank but a sense of achievement through the roof. Metabolic London welcomes all levels of fitness, you can go at your own pace but you will be glad you turned up, the burn and sense of accomplishment is addictive.
Class price? £10 offer for first timers
CoreCollective - Row
Where? High Street Kensington
What? Core Collective is arguably one of the most stylist studios in London, with very slick interior design and a relaxed cafe area for post gym catch ups with friends. Their first studio is based at High Street Kensington but they have recently launched in both Knightsbridge and St Johns Wood. Lift and Row is one of the many classes they have on offer. In this class you will find yourself switching between controlled weight lifting on the gym floor and powerful rowing in teams to give you a full body burn, you will see your body start to sculpt but your posture will also improve which in turn helps support your other styles of training. Post class, head to the cafe for a well deserved shake !
Class Price? Intro class £18, memberships available
The Engine Room
Where? Great Portland Street
What? Founded by Chris Heron (Head Coach) who has 20 years of body transformation expertise, The Engine Room is set in the most stunning Grade II listed Church- so you can repent your sins while you sweat. There is a range of different classes to choose from whether you are looking for lower, upper or even row and flow (yoga) you are spoilt for choice. What's more, the technogym rowers have a unique Skillrow tracking app function to help support your performance and track progress, so no slacking! You will see great results and get lean in a fun team environment.
Class Price? First timers £21 for 2x classes, membership packs available
ROWBOTS
Where? Soho
What? With trainers who are Olympic gold medallists, global sports stars and physical and mental health professionals you are in very safe hands at ROWBOTS. Head down to the 'Machine Room' for a 45 min class, promised to burn 800 kcal in one session. This class is not just great for your physical health but it will push your mental strength also. There is a range of classes on offer with different focuses whether it be strength, or high intensity cardio style splitting between floor exercises and the rower for maximum impact. You'll leave the room sweating...a lot ! but you will walk out stronger in both mind and body.
Class Price? Intro offer 3x classes for £25, memberships available
