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As someone who spends most of my training time pounding pavement in preparation for marathons, I’ll admit that rowing has always felt like foreign territory. Sure, I’d hop on the occasional rowing machine at the gym for cross-training, but I never really got it. That all changed when I had the opportunity to test Hydrow’s newest release—the Hydrow Arc Rower—which launched today with some seriously impressive AI-powered features.
I’ve just begun testing it out, so stay tuned for my in-depth review of the Arc later this month. For now, here are my first impressions of Hydrow’s latest high-tech rowing machine.
First impressions
Right out of the gate, the Arc feels like what I imagine would happen if Peloton decided to make a rowing machine. The build quality is immediately apparent. In other words, it feels high-end compared to the typical rower at your local gym. The touchscreen is large and crystal clear, and the overall aesthetic screams premium home fitness equipment.
Credit: Meredith Dietz
Because here’s what struck me most as a runner: The motion is incredibly smooth and intuitive. I’ve used plenty of rowing machines at various gyms over the years, and there’s usually this clunky, disconnected feeling. The Arc eliminates that entirely. The difference is like comparing a cheap stationary bike at your local gym to a high-end indoor cycling setup.
The standout feature that sets the Arc apart is undoubtedly HydroMetrics, Hydrow’s “proprietary strength measurement system.” As someone obsessed with running metrics (pace, heart rate zones, cadence, you name it), I was immediately intrigued by the promise of intelligent scoring for rowing.
Here’s how it works:
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Complete at least three rowing workouts (longer than 5 minutes, excluding warm-ups and cool-downs).
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HydroMetrics analyzes your performance and provides scoring.
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Click “Tap for HydroMetrics” on your workout stats screen to dive deeper into your data.
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The AI-powered system helps you understand your performance and motivates continued progress toward strength goals.
Credit: Meredith Dietz
Credit: Meredith Dietz
What impressed me most is how the system doesn’t just throw numbers at you. As someone unfamiliar with rowing, I found it actually provides context and actionable insights. As a data-driven athlete, this resonated with me immediately.
Learning proper form (finally)
Another strong first impression: Hydrow’s how-to videos are exceptional. As someone who has probably been embarrassing myself on rowing machines for years, these quick tutorials were eye-opening. They address questions I didn’t even know I should be asking: Should my heels should lift during the motion? Am I properly driving power from my legs, or just yanking with my arms?
The instruction quality makes me think about all those times I mindlessly hopped on a rower for a “quick cardio session” without any real technique. Now I understand why rowing never felt particularly effective for me before.
Credit: Meredith Dietz
Personally, what excites me most about the Arc is its running-specific programming available in its catalogue. As marathon runners, we’re always looking for effective cross-training that complements our running without adding unnecessary impact stress. Rowing checks all those boxes: It’s low-impact, works different muscle groups, and provides excellent cardiovascular benefits.
The Arc takes this a step further with dedicated running programs that seem designed specifically for people like me. After completing my first session, I immediately followed up with a five-minute yoga cool-down, and the seamless transition between activities felt natural within the ecosystem (another moment that makes me think of Peloton’s ecosystem).
Technical specs that matter
If you’re already a fan of Hydrow or at-home rowing machines, here’s what you need to know. The Arc shares the same footprint as Hydrow’s flagship Origin Rower (formerly the Pro), but packs significantly more processing power under the hood. Allegedly the improved hardware supports the constant AI advances that power features like HydroMetrics, provides more memory for smoother operation, and delivers better audio through upgraded speakers. The 24″ touchscreen display is also an upgrade worth writing home about. It’s way easier to work out with so many video options delivered in such a quality viewing experience.
But let’s be honest about the drawbacks. This machine is substantial. It’s a whopping 147 pounds, measuring 86″L x 25″W x 48″H. We’re talking serious equipment here, not something you casually tuck in a corner. While there is a vertical storage option, the Arc is definitely best suited for people with dedicated home gym space. Living in a tiny Brooklyn apartment, I found myself wishing I had more room to make this a permanent fixture.
The other consideration is price and commitment. This is premium equipment with a premium price tag, and you’ll want to make sure you’re actually going to use it consistently to justify the $2,295 investment. More on that in my official review, coming soon.
Bottom line: This could be my cross-training obsession
After several sessions on the Arc, I’m genuinely excited about incorporating rowing into my training routine in a more meaningful way. The combination of proper instruction, intelligent metrics, and running-specific programming addresses every complaint I’ve had about traditional rowing machines.
Like with Peloton for cycling, it’s not just about having a machine at home; it’s about having access to a comprehensive training ecosystem that understands and supports your goals. The AI-powered features like HydroMetrics provide the kind of data-driven feedback that serious runners appreciate, while the instructional content ensures you’re actually getting the most out of each session. If you have the space and budget for premium home fitness equipment, the Arc deserves serious consideration as your next training investment.
I’m still in the early stages of testing the Arc, and I’ll be providing more detailed insights as I continue to explore its features and programs over the coming weeks.
