How Did Row House Chelsea Score Overall?
The full client experience at Row House was very good, achieving The Fit Guide Award Of Excellence.
The class was also excellent, winning our Class Experience Award of Excellence.
The Highlights
The energy and passion of our coach was a real stand out.
The motivating and engaging in-class technology was also a highlight.
What Our Evaluator Had To Say
“The coach was great - I found her guidance and explanations to be very concise and helpful.”
“I enjoyed the real sense of community from the coach and everyone else in the class.”
“The New York mural in the studio was a particularly nice feature.”
What To Expect From A Row House Session
Row House is the world’s biggest boutique brand for one of the most effective forms of low-impact cardio exercise, rowing. Using the professional, industry-standard Concept 2 rowers, Row House combines this popular machine with elements of weight training to bring you a full body cardio and strength session. The rowers use technology that offers a wealth of data, which Row House collects and presents to you during the class, as well as in an email summary afterward.
Row House focuses on the powerful energy that’s created when the class rows together on the beat of the music, guided by motivating instructors who are knowledgeable on technique and form. You even have class goals that you can achieve together, such as total meters rowed.
Dim the lights, turn the music up and get ready for a 45-minute row session that builds strength, endurance, and confidence.
The Reception Service
The phone inquiry process started well, with the line being answered promptly on the first attempt. However, the absence of enthusiasm or personalized engagement, left the client feeling underwhelmed, though the staff member provided clear information about facilities, classes, and rates
Upon arrival, the self-check-in process via an iPad was efficient, but it lacked the support first-time clients might need. While the receptionist greeted our evaluator promptly and provided directions to the lockers and restrooms when prompted, there was no unprompted orientation or guidance, leaving the client to seek answers independently.
After the class, no effort was made to inquire about our experience or guide us toward booking another session. The receptionist lacked confidence and struggled to provide clear information about memberships and packages, often relying on printed materials instead of engaging in a tailored discussion.
Overall, while some basics were covered, the experience fell short in terms of personalization, professionalism, and proactive service.
The Class Experience
Row House Chelsea received The Fit Guide Class Experience Award of Excellence, making it one of New York’s stand-out offerings.
This was an engaging and high-energy class led by a knowledgeable and personable coach. Our evaluators were particularly impressed with their coach for the day, who was encouraging, personable and offered concise instruction on form and technique. She radiated positivity and we would seek her out for more classes. The session combined an effective workout with moments of mental reset, creating a balanced and enjoyable experience. The coach provided clear instructions, precise demonstrations, and consistent encouragement throughout the class. The pacing and enthusiasm set a positive tone, making it a great choice for both new and experienced clients.
However, we felt that additional information about the class format and structure beforehand would have been beneficial, especially as a first-timer. While the induction was helpful for learning the basics, there was no injury check conducted. Despite these minor oversights, the coach's attentiveness and effort to connect with each participant created a welcoming and motivating atmosphere. The overall vibe of the class and the sense of community in the club left a lasting positive impression on us.
The Equipment And Studio
The training room had a calming atmosphere that felt perfectly suited for a low-impact workout. The equipment, including Concept2 rowers, was in excellent condition and featured thoughtful branding elements, such as the club’s slogan and pacing stickers to guide participants. The room had a high-end, organized feel, with well-arranged equipment that supported a professional experience.
Bright lighting along a mural of NYC buildings, reflected in the front mirror, gave the room a pleasant and cohesive aura. Adjustments to the lighting during class, including dimming for certain sections, helped create an introspective and focused environment. Motivational phrases and slogans on the walls reinforced the brand and added an inspiring touch.
While the studio was generally clean, the floor was a bit dusty, which was noticeable during floor exercises. Additionally, the narrow spacing between machines made it challenging to perform floorwork without concern for personal space. Despite these minor issues, the high-quality sound system and thoughtful design made for an impressive and enjoyable session.
The Facilities And Public Areas
The changing areas were well-designed, with interesting artwork and thoughtful additions like plants on the counters. Ample showers were available, featuring consistent hot water and good pressure, along with complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and gel. However, the amenity selection was more basic, and workout towels were only available for purchase.
The public areas were spacious and maintained a fresh and professional atmosphere. Branding was clear and consistent, with notable elements like branded signage and lighting at the entrance. Music and lighting enhanced the ambiance, and the architectural style combined industrial elements with bright, airy spaces.
Lockers were clean, in excellent condition, and equipped with numerical locks, though they lacked hangers. Complimentary water was provided, and additional beverage options, including smoothies, were available. Food offerings included protein bars and jerky.
Digital And Technology
that was offered, which displayed statistics and metrics for the class. The client was impressed with the overall experience, particularly the user-friendly website and the comprehensive information available about classes and studio details. The standout feature was the club's tracking capability, which enables clients to monitor their class history and progress toward fitness goals. Our evaluator loved this in-class technology.The branded app also facilitated bookings and goal tracking seamlessly.
While the social media pages were visually appealing and updated regularly, they lacked essential booking links and class schedules. Email communications were professional and visually aligned with the brand but lacked personalization in follow-up messages and a distinct tone of voice to strengthen brand identity. A delayed booking confirmation email was also a minor gripe. While the social media channels reflected the club’s values well, they fell short in providing actionable steps for bookings and schedules.
Pricing
Row House offers the first class there, although it's billed as a limited-time offer.
If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, memberships are available from $124 for four classes per month up to $229 for unlimited classes.
Drop-in sessions are available at $40 per class, with smaller commitment packages also available, starting at a 10-pack for $380.