So the wife has been doing really well dieting and keeping me on track as well.

She mentioned that she was interested in getting a rowing machine for the house. Since this was a good year I would like to splurge a little and was looking at the Hydrow setup. We liked the idea of classes and a little more interactive than just a feedback display.

We are rural so there are no gyms to join and bike rides are better outside for us. Work will reimburse the monthly membership so it just comes down to buying the unit.

Thoughts?

Sounds like since you really want a more high tech feature, and Hydrow sounds like it can deliver. I have a Concept2 and it is very reliable, like the Toyota of rowing machines, but it's moreso you are using apps and other devices rather than the screen that it sounds like you want. You pretty much see Concept2's at every CrossFit gym, they are definitely durable and well built machines.

Good comparison article

I'm definitely torn. The concept2 is the other option. I have TVs mounted in the room and could easily mirror onto them.

What options are there as an alternative for classes?

Also, is there a big noise difference?

Going to try and see them in person next time I'm in Houston. I think Hydrow is at BestBuy.

I have the smartphone cradle and I like using my phone and following the rowing instructor videos on Apple Fitness+. The girl coach is my favorite because she does intervals. I've also heard there's an app for CityRow, which is like the SoulCycle of rowing. I haven't used those videos though because Apple Fitness+ and bundling it with other Apple subscriptions is way more cost effective for us.

Was looking at the same thing the past couple weeks. I ended up ordering the concept 2 on Friday as I really didn't like that the Hydrow had to be connected to power and the internet to function.

I have a concept 2 and it's been fine for the year I've had it. I listen to audible while I row.

I thought I read somewhere that somebody had found some code in the Peloton software that was aimed at future support for a rowing machine. Was that ever proven out or has there been any more news on whether it is in their plans to eventually offer one?

Wife got a Hydrow over the pandemic. Like a Peloton with a giant screen, thousands of workouts, leaderboards, etc. It's pretty slick

I believe at this point a Peloton rower is just rumors. They've alluded to something but nothing substantial.

If I were looking for something in the near future it'd be a nonstarter for me, and I have the peloton bike and really like it.

Is rowing more of an alternative cardio to running or is it good for building upper body strength?

The code is much easier to write than the actual product is to produce, market, and distribute. They probably have some people that wrote the code over lunch for a few days just for fun. I also have a feeling that they need to get the Tread+ safely back in the market before they full-on invest in a new product.

I had a Concept2 and never felt the need to upgrade to a Hydrow for the classes. If I rowed hard, I was always done in 15-20 minutes anyway. It is somewhat loud due to the air resistance, but I would use bluetooth headset to listen to a show or podcast while I rowed.