In the world of rowing machines, it can be difficult to find the right fit for your home gym or workout.Both the Hydrow Wave and the Hydrow Pro are top-notch options that are meant to take your fitness to the next level. Each rower has unique features that meet the needs of different group of people, whether if you are a beginner or a professional athlete. In this article, we’ll dissect the differences, pros, and cons of these two seated rowers so you can determine which best fits your needs.
What is a Row Machine?
What is a Row Machine?It works the back, shoulders, arms and core muscles. A staple of many home gyms, the seated row machine delivers a solid, low-impact, full-body strength workout. The aquatic experience is ideal if you love water sports, as the seated row machine mimics rowing in water, enhancing your exercise experience while providing a significant workout.
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine: Space-Saving Fold-Up Model
The Hydrow Wave is a row machine that is foldable and space-saving, perfect for small living spaces. This rower features a magnetic resistance system that replicates resistance encountered on the water. Here’s a closer look at the features:
Key Features:
- 16″ HD Touchscreen: The Wave includes a 16″ high-definition touchscreen to stream live and on-demand workouts for a fully immersive fitness experience.
- Mostly, magnetic resistance – Smooth and adjustable resistance levels for all fitness levels
- Compact, Foldable, Store upright: Hydrow Wave is 80″ L x 19″ W x 43″ H, but can fold and store vertically, making it an excellent option for individuals with minimal space.
- Built-In Speakers: The rower features front-facing speakers, so you can enjoy quality sound during workouts.
- Subscription Required: To gain access to live and on-demand classes, you’ll have to subscribe to Hydrow’s fitness service (starting at $44/month).
Pros of Hydrow Wave:
- The foldable design ensures that it can be stored in smaller apartments or a home gym when not in use, saving space.
- Affordable: The Hydrow Wave ($1,495, with discounts) costs less than the Hydrow Pro.
- Interactive Workout Tool: Boasting its own screen and speakers, the Wave is able to provide a workout experience for fitness enthusiasts, who are often looking for that extra motivation through a class running in real-time.
Cons of Hydrow Wave:
- Reduced Display Size: The 16” screen is smaller than that of the Hydrow Pro (22”), which may lessen the involving nature of the experience for some users.
- Subscription Costs: Full access to workouts requires a subscription paid monthly.
Hydrow Pro Rowing Machine: Luxury Experience
Hydrow has elevated indoor rowing to an entirely new, premium experience with the Hydrow Pro, a high-tech, full-body workout. Crafted as a more serious-rowing, larger-screen, upgraded-featuring, upgraded resistance system machine, this is a serious rower for the serious fitness buff. Let’s dive deeper into the Hydrow Pro:
Key Features:
- 22″ HD Rotating Screen — The Hydrow Pro features an impressive 22” HD rotating touchscreen that provides multiple workout angles for flexibility.
- Magnetic Resistance: The Hydrow Pro, like the Wave, uses magnetic resistance, which delivers a smooth rowing stroke and adjustable difficulty.
- Immersive Workouts: Access to 5,000+ workout classes like cardio, strength, and recovery, from world-class instructors from stunning locations around the globe.
- Upright Storage: Like the Wave, the Hydrow Pro features an upright design that allows for vertical storage, making it perfect for home gyms with less room to go horizontal.
- Bluetooth: Works with Bluetooth fitness devices such as Apple Watch and wireless headphones.
Pros of Hydrow Pro:
- Bigger Display: The 22” Rotating Screen for an immersive workout experience, making it more prominent.
- Premium Workouts: On-demand and live – classes on a wide range of topics led by expert instructors.
- Supports a high maximum user weight: The Hydrow Pro has a maximum user weight of 375 lbs, allowing a wider range of use.
Cons of Hydrow Pro:
- Higher Price: The Hydrow Pro at $1,745 (pre-discount) is the more expensive option from the Wave making it a premium option for anyone looking to spend more.
- Bigger Size: Measuring 86 in x 25 in x 47 in, Hydrow Pro is too large for small spaces compared to the Wave.
The decision between the Hydrow Wave and the Hydrow Pro boils down to your budget, space, and the features you prioritize
Selection of the Best Row Machine
Go for the Hydrow Wave if:
- You live in a smaller home or have less space.
- You’re shopping on a budget but still want that premium rowing experience.
- You just need a smaller screen and a simple interface.
Go for the Hydrow Pro if:
- You prefer a bigger display and a more engaging exercise experience.
- You plan to use the rower long-term, so are willing to spend on a premium product.
- You prefer multiple screens for working out from a different angle.
Both the Hydrow Wave and Hydrow Pro are great for using as a row machine, though the best option depends on whether you have limited space, budget constraints or specific fitness goals. Regardless of which you opt for, both rowers will aid you in low-impact, full-body workouts that deliver fantastic cardiovascular benefits and help tone muscles effectively.
How We Tested the Hydrow Wave & Hydrow Pro: A Hands-On Review
Testing Methodology
1. Assembly & Setup
- We assessed how easy it was to unbox and set up each machine.
- Time required for assembly was recorded.
- Any additional tools needed were noted.
2. Resistance & Smoothness
- We measured how smoothly the rowing stroke felt at different resistance levels.
- The magnetic resistance was compared to traditional water and air rowers.
- Real-world rowing feel was analyzed by different users (beginner, intermediate, and advanced rowers).
3. Comfort & Ergonomics
- Seat padding and handle grip comfort were tested during short (15 min) and long (60 min) sessions.
- Foot straps were checked for adjustability and security.
- Rowing motion fluidity was evaluated based on natural movement.
4. Screen & Workout Experience
- We tested the Hydrow Wave’s 16” HD screen vs. the Hydrow Pro’s 22” rotating HD screen for clarity, brightness, and engagement.
- Live and on-demand class experiences were compared.
- The immersiveness of workouts was measured based on video quality and instructor interaction.
5. Space & Storage
- Foldability and upright storage features were assessed.
- The space required for each machine in both use and storage modes was measured.
6. Noise Level
- Decibel readings were taken at different resistance levels to compare noise levels.
- Comparison with air and water rowers was noted.
7. Connectivity & Features
- Bluetooth connectivity with headphones and fitness devices was tested.
- The ease of navigating workout programs and syncing with fitness apps was checked.
8. Real-World Workout Performance
We had a group of testers with different fitness levels try both machines under different conditions:
- Beginner Rowers: How easy is it to get started and learn proper form?
- Intermediate Users: Can it provide variety and motivation for regular workouts?
- Advanced Athletes: Does it offer enough resistance and challenge for serious rowers?
Benefits of Rowing Machines (Hydrow Wave & Pro)
Rowing machines are one of the best full-body cardio and strength workouts. Here’s why they’re beneficial for fitness enthusiasts of all levels:
1. Full-Body Workout
Unlike treadmills or stationary bikes that focus mostly on the lower body, rowing engages 86% of muscles, including:
✅ Legs (quadriceps, hamstrings, calves)
✅ Core (abs and obliques)
✅ Back (lats, traps, rhomboids)
✅ Arms (biceps, triceps)
2. Low-Impact, Joint-Friendly Exercise
- Perfect for people with knee or joint pain, unlike running or HIIT workouts.
- Smooth and controlled motion reduces stress on joints.
3. Improves Cardiovascular Health
- Rowing increases heart rate and improves cardiovascular endurance.
- Burns 600-800 calories per hour, making it great for weight loss.
4. Strengthens Posture & Core Stability
- Engages core muscles, reducing back pain.
- Helps improve posture, especially for those with desk jobs.
5. Mental Health Benefits
- The rhythmic motion is meditative and stress-relieving.
- Hydrow’s immersive scenic workouts provide mental escape through real-world rowing experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a seated row machine do?
A seated row machine simulates the rowing motion and primarily works the back, arms, and core muscles. It’s wonderful for posture improvement and upper body strengthening.
How do you feel in response to using a rower?
Rowing is a low-impact full body workout that increases cardiovascular health, muscle endurance, and fat burning.
Is the Hydrow Wave or the Hydrow Pro subscription-based?
Yes! Both machines need a monthly subscription to unlock live and on-demand workouts. Hydrow has many classes taught by expert instructors.
Which Hydrow rower is best for tight spaces?
The Hydrow Wave, however, is slim and foldable — perfect for tight spaces. It’s also lighter than the Hydrow Pro.
Does the Hydrow Pro fold for storage?
Yes, the Hydrow Pro does have upright storage, which is helpful for saving space when not in use.
Is it worth spending more for the Hydrow Pro?
If you want a bigger screen, more engaging workouts, and higher-end features, the Hydrow Pro may be worth the added investment. But if you’re trying to save money, the Hydrow Wave is a solid option.
Conclusion
Both the Hydrow Wave and Hydrow Pro deliver great rowing sessions, but in different ways. The Wave is great for anyone with limited space or for a tighter budget, whilst the Pro has more immersive features for anyone looking to invest in a high-end rowing machine. Pick an option that suits your workout routine and space availability, and row your way to fitness today!
