How Hydrow Members Are Losing Weight—And Gaining So Much More In the Process

When it comes to sustainable weight loss, the Hydrow community proves that it's not just about shedding pounds—it’s about transforming lives. Through inspiring stories of resilience, recovery, and newfound strength, Hydrow members like Erin, Earl, Harriet, Matt, and Keith are redefining what it means to take charge of their health.

From chronic migraines to unstoppable momentum: Erin’s story

For years, Erin Dickinson lived with chronic migraines that sidelined her half of each month. Climbing the stairs in her apartment left her breathless, and her confidence was dwindling. She knew something had to change—but it had to be sustainable.

That’s when she found Hydrow.

Erin needed a workout that was low-impact, easy to get started with, and motivating enough to keep her coming back. Hydrow checked all the boxes. The immersive workouts, beginner-friendly programs, and vibrant community gave her the structure and encouragement she needed to take the first step—and keep going.

The results?

• 75 pounds lost.

• Migraine days dropped from 15 to just two per month.

• No longer needs migraine medication.

• Gained a daily fitness routine that fits her life.

Now, Erin rows most mornings for 20–30 minutes, using a physical journal to track her progress and remind herself that consistency beats perfection. The Hydrow community plays a huge role, too—whether it’s a shout-out during a workout or a milestone post from a fellow member, those little moments help her stay the course.

Read Erin’s Story: How a Rowing Machine Helped Me Lose 75 Pounds and Relieve My Chronic Migraines

A wake-up call turned fitness breakthrough: Earl’s story

For Earl Laidlow, his fitness journey started in the ICU. A life-threatening discovery of undiagnosed diabetes served as a wake-up call he couldn’t ignore. He knew he needed to make lasting changes—not just for himself, but for his son, too. That’s when he discovered Hydrow.

Biking workouts hadn’t inspired him, but rowing was different. Hydrow’s immersive workouts and supportive coaching, especially through coaching sessions with Lead Coach Megan Hanewald, helped him improve his form and build a solid foundation. Over the course of just five months, Earl didn’t just stick with the program—he thrived.

The results?

• 60 pounds lost.

• A1C dropped from 14 to 4.

• Reversal of his diabetes diagnosis.

• Over 1 million meters rowed!

Now, he rows twice a day, balances it with yoga and mobility workouts, and is even thinking about entering a competition—a remarkable shift for someone who had never touched a rowing machine before! 

Read Earl’s Story: From the ICU to a Million Meters: How Rowing and Personal Coaching Helped Me Reclaim My Health After a Diabetes Scare

From chronic pain to confidence: Harriet’s story

In her 60s, Harriet faced multiple barriers to traditional workouts, including psoriatic arthritis, joint damage, and the reality of aging. While swimming seemed promising, it lacked the data and structure she craved. When she found a secondhand Hydrow, everything changed.

Rowing offered the low-impact, full-body workout she needed—and the measurable progress she wanted. Within two years, Harriet experienced a stunning transformation:

The results?

• 70 pounds lost.

• Dropped from a size 18 to size 6.

• Inflammation markers returned to normal.

• No longer needs a cane or blood pressure medication.

More than the physical benefits, it was Hydrow’s supportive community and data-driven accountability that fueled her journey. From Facebook groups to encouraging shout-outs during live rows, Harriet found the emotional support she needed to stay the course. 

“At 62 (soon to be 63!), I’m focused on maintaining my health for the long term,” Harriet said. “With my psoriatic arthritis, there are no quick fixes, but Hydrow has been a key part of managing my condition and improving my quality of life.” 

Read Harriet’s Story: How a Rowing Machine Helped Me Shed 70 Pounds and Manage My Psoriatic Arthritis 

Finding strength through simplicity: Keith’s story

After decades of military service, Keith Lochner was left with knee pain, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain he couldn’t shake. High-impact workouts were off the table, and he struggled to find an effective alternative—until Hydrow.

The low-impact nature of rowing gave Keith a path back to health without aggravating his injuries. Though his story is still unfolding, he’s already seen major changes in his strength, energy, and outlook.

The results?

• 30 pounds lost.

• Improved blood sugar control.

• Went from a size 36 waist to a size 30 waist.

• Pushed his resting heart rate and blood pressure to athletic levels.

• Reduced knee pain that led to a return to running workouts.

Keith credits Hydrow’s blend of simplicity and support—not just the machine, but the motivation from the Athletes and fellow rowers who make every meter more meaningful.

Read Keith’s Story: How I Lost 30 Pounds and Managed My Type 2 Diabetes With a Hydrow Rowing Machine

From knee pain to personal bests: Matt’s story

For Matt Peachey, rowing wasn’t just about exercise—it was a lifeline. After being diagnosed with medial compartment arthritis in both knees during the COVID-19 lockdown, Matt was advised to avoid high-impact activities. Encouraged by his wife and motivated by a need to protect his knees, he turned to Hydrow.

What started as a reluctant purchase quickly turned into a passion. Since buying his Hydrow in August 2021, Matt has rowed more than 4 million meters and become a competitive indoor and on-the-water rower. But perhaps the most dramatic change was his health.

The results?

• 28 pounds lost.

• Fitter than at any point in his life.

• Better sleep.

• Improved eating habits.

• Significantly less knee pain .

Today, Matt is not only lighter and stronger—he’s also racing in indoor championships, competing in regattas, and embracing every element of rowing life. For him, Hydrow didn’t just change his fitness. It transformed his future.

Read Matt's Story: From Rowing Skeptic to Gold Medalist: My Hydrow Journey

More than weight loss: Why Hydrow works!

Each of these members had a different starting point, but the outcomes share a common thread: Hydrow is more than a workout machine—it’s a catalyst for change. From coaching that builds confidence and skill, to the community that lifts members up during hard days, Hydrow provides the tools for real, lasting transformation.

Whether you're just starting your health journey or looking to push past a plateau, Hydrow offers a proven path to results—on and off the rower. Learn more about the benefits of a Hydrow rowing machine today!