Josh K

If your goal is to get into great shape and look and feel terrific, then you should go to Rowfit, because their high intensity workout classes will get you into amazing condition. I felt like I was already in great shape when I started there, so I have been amazed by the progress I have made in the last 16 weeks of working out there. I've lost fat, gained muscle and strength and vastly increased my aerobic capacity. 

But there is way more to Rowfit than just being fit, looking good and feeling better. If you have a specific sports performance goal the coaches at rowfit can tailor a program to help you achieve that. They work with all types of athletes: rowers, triathletes, runners, bikers, Olympic weight lifters and rugby players to name only a few. And the really magical thing about Rowfit is that they work with all ability levels, from elite athletes to those who are out of shape and have never competed before, and despite that diversity are able to foster an atmosphere where everyone is comfortable and is taken seriously as an athlete regardless of their ability. 

Rowfit is a great workout experience. If you are willing to put in some hard work they can help you reach your goals.

Christine P

I want to scream from the rooftops... that... I LOVE ROWFIT!

How much do I love Rowfit? Let me list the ways...

... the coaches are amazing! I usually train with Nell, Eric or Ben. They know you by name, care about your goals/progress and consistently check to make sure you're using proper form. Sometimes they even inspire me to make stick figure drawings of their awesome coaching skills!

... the environment is unpretentious and encouraging. It's motivating when other members are cheering you on to finish those last few reps or meters.

... every workout is different. Every single one leaves me drenched in sweat and sore in places I never knew existed. Some moves can be intimidating but the beauty is that you control how hard you work. Don't think that means you get to breeze through a workout though! I was doing kettlebell swings the other day using, what I thought, was a decent weight. Halfway through the workout, I came back to my station to find that my kettlebell was mysteriously switched out for something heavier. I laughed... and then cried as I powered through my swings.

So yea, I love this gym. I've never said that about a gym before. Valentine's day is coming up and I don't know that heart-shaped chocolates would be the appropriate gift to show how much I love them... **sigh** ... I'm sure I'll think of something.

Carol M

Dear Rowfit,

What did I ever do to deserve this much pain from you? Every time I come in I sweat and I hurt and I whimper to the point of every muscle in my body nearing failure. And it's different every time. I never know what to expect, but I know it will always end in pain. Sometimes I can't walk for days after seeing you....

I've never felt this way before. First thing in the morning too, before I even begin to sit down for 8 straight hours before my work computer, all I hear is "JUST ONE MORE! You can do it!? There's NO LAUGHTER in bootcamp!"

It hurts. It hurts so good.

And I like it.

Thanks Rowfit. Thanks a lot.

Sara B

GREAT CLASSES!  Teachers are amazing and very helpful.  I purchased a youswoop for Rowfit.  I went to Rowfit as a way to get in shape for the half marathon.  The workouts were great and I was in great shape in no time.  The energy during the classes is always positive and will keep you motivated to reach your goal.  The instructors are excellent and willing to help.  I had no idea how to use a rowing machine and they took time before and after classes to make sure I was in the correct position and using proper form.  I recommend this all my friends!

Anna K

I LOVE this place!! I originally heard about it as a youswoop deal. I have been going to the same gym for about 15 years, have gotten countless fitness groupons and you swoops and this is my absolute favorite. I love the gym and the supportive atmosphere. The trainers are great! Nell really knows how to motivate you and keep you going when you think you just can't go anymore. 
Unfortunately I had to stop going for the last few months as I just had knee surgery. I am pretty stoked that I am at the point of recovery that I can start going back this week! 
I had been using rowing and crossfit as a supplement to my other sports activity prior to surgery. I noticed that with the rowing/crossfit combo I had become more powerful and had quicker movements and jumps. I really can't wait to get back to RowFit. If you are looking for something new that can really get you in shape that you actually look forward to going to do, go here. You will love it.

Morgan F

Prepare for total addiction to RowFit.  Prepare to be excited to work out at RowFit.  Prepare to make plans around your RowFit schedule.  Prepare to meet inspiring coaches and dedicated individuals. Prepare to become one of those individuals.  I am addicted.  
I had no rowing experience when I showed up to RowFit boot camp.  I was training for a marathon and figured I'd be able to row..."no problem".  After an introduction to the erg from Nell, one of the most motivating people I have come to know, my friends and I were set for the next hour and sore for the next 72 hours.  
I've come to love rowing.  Similar to "runners high" after running, it leaves you with a "rowing high" and is a great total body workout.  I have seen my running times drop dramatically which I'm certain is a result of RowFit.  Most importantly, rowing is easier on the joints and builds good core strength.  (I was able to recover from a wicked water ski accident while rowing.)
There's more to RowFit than just rowing; the erg seems to compliment every workout.
Nell and her team have created an environment that isn't found anywhere else.  No matter your fitness level or abilities, everyone is welcomed and encouraged on a personal level.  The coaches empower everyone to do their best every time and personal achievements are celebrated regularly. 
My favorite moment in my personal RowFit history was the RowFit 26.2 rowing marathon.  Training to row a marathon and rowing 26.2 miles on an erg was more fun than you can ever imagine.

Michele L

I love a great workout the kind that will drench me in my sweat and can barely move afterwards. Yes, I love an a@# kickin' workout and I found one here at Rowfit. Nell and Heather guided me through a crossfit workout which they call "hell" and it was. I felt great after I had a gallon of water took a few minutes to catch my breath. They really helped motivate me to push myself to my limit and just when I thought I couldn't move another inch they were right there cheering me on. 
I also tried the rowfit bootcamp and once again another great workout. The staff that I've met at Rowfit are all athletes. They have competed in marathons, triathlons and many other competitive sports which require a lot of training. I would highly recommend Rowfit even if you're a beginner they will help your body get in shape and have more confidence in yourself.

Katie R

I have never tried rowing before but at the behest of a dear friend, I decided to try it out. I was suspicious at first because I figured my skinny arms and humpy back wouldn't take well to the sport. Also the only sport I can do effectively is Yoga, and the two are worlds apart. 
I only go to classes about twice a week (and spend another two days at the yoga studio) but I have been pleasantly surprised.  In three weeks I can feel that my posture and endurance have increased greatly, mostly due to the constant positive motivation provided by Nell (the gym's owner a teacher there) during our workouts. My friend Christine is still world's ahead of me, but I feel good about myself because Nell congratulates each individual when they accomplish a personal milestone. 
I have had a lot of fun and am enjoying something I never thought I would. I only bought 10 classes initially, but I am going to stay at Rowfit Chicago. I feel like it's done wonders for me.  I haven't been in this good of shape since I was in soccer. Go ROWFIT!

Kate C

I'm pretty sure if Jillian Michaels met Nell S., she would definitely approve.  I just got home from Thursday night boot camp and my arms already feel more toned than they have since I was 16 and my thighs are on fire. More impressive is the fact that Nell remembers your name. In fact, it's really hard to slack on a pull-up when a really fit lady (that could beat you up) is telling you to suck in your stomach by your full name in an Australian accent.

I started out by going to Ben's Wednesday night rowing class, which was a great way to start! I don't reco starting with boot camp. If you live in the city, definitely check it out to change up your workout.

I'm pretty sure I'm not supposed to come home and drink three beers after boot camp, but oh well '-)

It definitely opens up a whole new world on the rowing machine. The neglected machine at the gym is no longer the red headed stepchild.

Laura W

I was initially intrigued by Rowfit Chicago because I thought it would be a nice alternative to the gym (although seriously -- never rowed in my life).

I was very impressed not only with the class selections (there are several options to choose from) but also the instruction.  Nell is awesome - she's extremely knowledgeable based on her experience and it translates well to her teaching style.   After one "Intro" class I felt like I could definitely hold my own.  :)

Great staff, great equipment, great workout - I HIGHLY recommend!!!

Derick L

First off let me mention that I don't enjoy weight lifting so much (my mind goes stir crazy on the bench) and prefer more active exercises such as biking, running, and now ROWING!

I couldn't be happier with Rowfit Chicago, from the first catch to release and back I was hooked!

Rowfit has an awesome small classroom feel to it, and it doesn't feel like you have everyone else in the gym trying to size you up either. The work outs range from distance pieces to sprints and more, and that is only the rowing. For $99 a month (no sign up fee! other packages available.) you get access to classes for rowing, row boot camp (rowing pieces and core exercises), cross fit, cycle training, boxing and yoga on Sunday. All of which include a pre fabricated work out and direction by the class instructors.

As for the instructors; Nell and her crew are astounding with their own work ethic which is motivation itself. They are also spot on with maintaining rigorous workouts yet still manage to know everyone and their needs. (I have a recovering knee injury and certain workouts were adjusted to lower the stress on it) Such a great handful of instructors the lot of them!

In closing,

Get fit, stay fit, ROWFIT!

Kate K

This place is seriously THE BEST. I have always been the one to walk around the gym aimlessly and count down the minutes 'til the torture was over. I don't know how they do it but they make working out FUN and I actually look forward to classes! I feel stronger and better about myself after every single class.

Mandy H

OK I am in love with this place now, Trainers and all!  Just took the Monday night boxing class and loved every second of it. I love that Matt allows you to "drop in" for class instead of having a set time for class. It is great in case you can't make it to the gym by 6pm. I didn't know what to expect with my first ever boxing class but boy, my arms were sore for 4 days after class!! Yikes! glad I can keep coming back to get my body into shape! Boot camp is also a lot of fun and really tough. Nell's rocks and it is great for all physical fitness types. Thank you Rowfit for kicking my butt!

Emmitt R

so i have been crossfitting for almost 2 years and my rowing was a weakness..i hated the rowing machine soooo much!!!.  But after a few classes I have learned quality technique, which has improved my endurance without back and calf pain which I I sometimes experience with running.  This has also helped my endurance in crossfit.

Heather G

I first heard about this place from YouSwoop about a month ago. I just wanted to try something different than my usual gym class workouts. I typically go to the same classes: one on Wednesday nights and one on Saturday mornings (the name/type of class is the same but the workout is different EVERY time)! They have a "workout of the day" that challenges you in different ways each class and keeps things from getting repetitive. I really like that it's a small studio because you get to know everyone (the instructors and classmates)! When you walk in people know your name and say hello. All the instructors I have met are very helpful, knowledgeable and always encourage you to ask questions. I definitely recommend this place.

Brittany M

Rowfit is a unpretentious, fun, challenging place to workout.  I joined because it was so close to me and I was growing tired of the usual gym workouts, and now I'm hooked.  Nell is a wonderful teacher and doesn't let you slack off, Ben is fantastic at focusing on the technical skills, and everyone that works out there is fun and friendly.  I haven't repeated a workout yet, every day is something new.  My arms are more toned than I've seen in years and my legs burn after every session.  

I was impressed in the beginning with the instructors and the equipment.  Now I'm just addicted to the workout and the results I'm seeing. I highly recommend joining Rowfit if you're tired of all the B.S. you get from other gym's in Chicago that don't treat their members like they deserve, or if you're just looking for a change of pace in your workouts.

Alex H

......I am sending this email to properly thank you for everything this summer. The amount of strength that I have gained both physically and mentally is far beyond what I thought I could achieve over the past few months (or ever, to be honest)......what an incredible team you and the other rowfit 'leaders' have fostered. I feel so lucky to have been able to train with such incredible people (and, of course, athletes), and I feel like I owe my growth this summer entirely to them....thank you for everything and so much more. I will certainly keep in touch (get psyched for some awesome pics of handstands, kipping pullups, and maybe even those treacherous ring dips).....its odd, I already miss the training.....

Ashley R

After dumping my gym two years ago I tried to keep working out on my own- running, on demand/dvd workouts, etc. They were all good...for about a week, then I'd get bored and quit. I need motivation. Rowfit was the PERFECT solution. I started going after buying their YouSwoop and was hooked. Nell, Eric and the rest of their crew are great! They are constantly motivating you without pushing you. Every day is a different workout so you're never bored. I never thought my workouts would be centered around rowing but I love it and glad that I'm no longer a slave to the elliptical.

Wendy M

I tried the boxing class for the first time last night.  Matt was a great teacher and I am (good) sore today!  It was a great change up from my normal work out routine.  And as a runner who *hates* upper body workouts....this is a great way to get that workout while still having fun!  Can't wait for my next class!!

Katie B

I just signed up for another 10 class series of Rowfit!  I've been taking the Bootcamp and it is the best class/form of exercise I have ever experienced. LOVE IT!  The instructors are great, the other group members are motivating and I can't get enough!

Chad L

Join this studio....period!!! It will change your body more than you will believe.  This place will make any high price athletic club or trendy gym look like a pretentious social scene that takes your money and could care less about your results. The Rowfit studio demands results and improvement, and you'll make a few friends while you're at it!

Rebecca P

Let me just say the 'erg' is addicting!  Whether it's an early morning endurance workout or rowing boot camp after work, I leave the studio soaked with sweat and totally invigorated.  I'm in the best shape I've been in 15 years.  Rowing is an excellent workout for the entire body and all of the experienced instructors make it interesting and fun.  You can't go wrong with  Rowfit Chicago!

Ken K