From Pain to Power: How I Transformed My Fitness Routine in My 60s With a Rowing Machine

This blog is a guest post from Hydrow member Felice Kapfhamer.

In September 2021, I embarked on a fitness journey that would change my life. As a woman in my mid-60s, I was looking for an exercise routine that was sustainable, weather-independent, and beneficial for my entire body. 

I had struggled with lower-back pain for years due to arthritis and disc issues, and after a surgical procedure on my back, I was determined to find an exercise that would enhance my overall health and keep me fit for the things I wanted to do, like running after my grandchildren, playing with my dogs, and dealing with my chickens! 

That’s when I discovered Hydrow’s rowing machines. 

From walking to rowing 

Back when I was a full-time special education teacher, I often found it difficult to motivate myself to go for a 45-minute to an hour-long walk after a long day at work—especially when it was raining. I would get home by 5:30 or 6:00 each day and felt like I had to invest so much time to get something out of my walking workouts. 

My back issues also made exercising painful, and I often chose to do nothing instead. I needed an alternative that wouldn’t take up too much time and be kinder to my body. 

I had always enjoyed paddleboarding and kayaking, so I started looking into rowing machines. Hydrow caught my eye because of its modern and aesthetically pleasing design. Although I had no experience with rowing specifically, I talked to my husband and we decided to take the plunge!

A one-stop shop for fitness

What I love most about Hydrow is that it’s a one-stop shop for fitness. It offers rowing, on-the-mat exercises, and stretching—all the essentials for a well-rounded fitness routine. I knew that strengthening my core was going to be necessary after my back surgery, and Hydrow provided the perfect solution. 

Because I was new to the sport, I initially thought rowing was all about pulling the handle. But I quickly learned I was doing it all wrong! Hydrow’s Beginner Training Camp and one-on-one coaching were essential to helping me row correctly with my entire body. 

My back issues also made me very cautious about my form, and the training camps, advice from Hydrow Athletes, and Facebook community helped me immensely. This sport requires a lot of thinking—you don’t just sit there and let your muscles do all the work. You have to take it one stroke at a time. The mental aspect of rowing isn’t necessarily unwieldy or hard, but you have to be cognizant and present to maintain proper form, which really helped keep me motivated. 

A lifesaver for my health

My Hydrow rowing machine has helped me avoid becoming a couch potato and giving in to my aches and pains. I’ve been able to be consistently motivated, striving to exercise at least five days a week for the past two years. Some people’s treadmills become laundry hampers, but my Hydrow has been a constant source of motivation.

Being able to complete a workout in just 15 to 30 minutes and still feel accomplished has been a game-changer. The milestones, badges, and prizes provide extrinsic motivation, and I’ve enjoyed one-on-one coaching sessions with trainers like Megan. I also appreciate the flexibility of working out when I have the time and choosing workouts that align with my energy levels and time constraints. 

I’m not in it for racing—at 65, I just want to stay healthy. I’ve surpassed my 2 million meters milestone, and it’s rewarding to see my progress. Beyond the milestones and rewards, though, I’m most proud of my health and strength. Hydrow has given me confidence in myself and made me realize that I can achieve fitness and feel accomplished even at 65. I’m proud of myself for staying committed and seeing continuous growth in my stamina and health.

My advice for new rowers 

If you’re new to rowing, I highly recommend doing Hydrow’s Beginner Training Camp and connecting with the Hydrow community. Reach out and ask questions, because everyone is there to help you. If I hadn’t gotten professional coaching with Hydrow and found out that I was rowing wrong, it could have hurt me. Facebook pages, like Club 18, Hydrow Training Camp, Over 60s, and Club 26, are also awesome for connecting with fellow rowers and asking questions. 

My other piece of advice is to avoid comparing yourself to others. Your journey is your journey! The important thing is to take it slow, know your body, and to have fun.

Hydrow isn’t just an exercise—it’s a lifestyle. It has transformed my approach to fitness, provided a supportive community, and helped me stay active and healthy in my mid-60s. Whether you’re new to rowing or looking for a sustainable exercise routine, I highly recommend giving Hydrow a try. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.