The VIBE inside SCULLHOUSE, a rowing Workout in Old Toronto

Seeing if you can get a full body workout at SCULLHOUSE Rowing

Truth be told, I had never tried rowing before. My past trainers told me how good it is and always encouraged me to incorporate it into my workout routine. I never saw the appeal back then. And now, while on my quest for the best gyms in Toronto, I came across SCULLHOUSE Rowing. I had to check it out rowing for myself and they seemed to be doing it proper. So with the help of my colleague, Jenan Nasser, we take you through the VIBE of SCULLHOUSE Rowing.

Located in charming Old Toronto next to St. Lawrence Market, the studio was quite nice and modern. I was welcomed… and then warned that this would not be a walk in the park. We were training with Heather, who was an absolute gem. Jenan came in a lil late and missed the whole spiel so we had to bring her up to speed and Heather did a great job of this while still managing the rest of the class.

The Prep

Change Rooms + Amenities

The check-in process is simple and all done online with various packages available. The Change rooms are pretty big, modern and nice. It’s very comfortable to bring your stuff and change here with lockers to secure everything. They have all the necessary toiletries and contemporary showers. All towel service is provided and alkaline water fountain on hand (just bring a bottle with you).

The Workout

Instructor(s)

Our trainer was Heather, who was a professional rower and athlete back in the day. She is a delightful trainer and very knowledged in the space. Her ability to lead the class, while paying super close attention to both Jenan and I (being the newbies), was remarkable. She was relentless, always pushed and did such a good job of reminding us of proper form and technique. Can’t say enough positive things about her – she was awesome!

The Intensity, Quality & Difficulty

When it comes to rowing, something I didn’t realize, is that it’s all about form. If you’re doing it correctly your legs should be getting the bulk of the workout. It seemed like this would predominantly be an arm and back exercise, but oh boy was I mistaken. We didn’t have a clue about proper form and technique when we started. Heather took the time to show us and practiced a bit before starting the class. There was a lot to think about with every row. The class is quite intense and you will need to push yourself to get through it. You’ll probably want to give up, but Heather does a great job keeping your head in the game.

I’m not going to say that this was an easy workout, because it’s not. Is it ever rewarding though. In addition to the 30-40 min of rowing, you get off the machines and do some upper body and core workouts in-between. Your heart rate is constantly pumping and overall, it was a solid, quality workout and a great burn, leaving us feeling super energized. You can join in at any level, whether you’re a beginner or advanced and feel the effects. Like anything new though, it takes a couple classes to really get in the groove of things.

The VIBE

The crowd and community here are very tight nit it. Everyone was very nice and willing to help and provide tips. It’s a mixed crowd at various levels of fitness, but all very supportive and there to get a solid workout in with no judgement. Overall a great atmosphere to be a part of.

The Aftermath

Your legs and upper body will feel soar the next day, but you do feel energized and strong. Your whole body will be feeling it, but if you’re like me, you’ll want to go back and push it even harder the next time. Personally, it’s something I wouldn’t do exclusively, but will incorporate it into my routine 3-4 times per month. I recommend giving it a shot at SCULLHOUSE rowing to see for yourself if it’s your vibe.

Location: 35 Jarvis Street, Toronto, ON
Contact: 416.368.4870, Website
Neighbourhood:  Old Toronto
Type of Workout: Rowing
Booking: Website

Have you been? Let us know what you think below, and tag us in your photos, use #TorontoVIBE.

Credits:

Contributing VIBE Reviewer: Jenan Nasser