Introduction

In an era when home fitness spaces are as much about aesthetics as they are about performance, WaterRower and NOHRD stand out for their use of sustainable hardwoods, innovative designs and meditative exercise experiences. These brands share a common heritage—WaterRower’s founder John Duke launched the first water‑resistance rower in 1988, and today the company partners with NOHRD to deliver a cohesive line of wooden cardio and strength equipment. Both companies craft machines that look like furniture yet provide challenging workouts, making them ideal for living rooms, lofts and boutique studios. This blog explores the key features of WaterRower rowing machines and the broader NOHRD equipment range to help you decide which pieces belong in your home gym.

Why Choose WaterRower?

Authentic Water‑Resistance Technology

Unlike magnetic or air rowers, WaterRower machines use a WaterFlywheel—a sealed tank filled with water that spins as you pull the handle. The fluid resistance closely simulates the feel of rowing on open water. Because resistance increases exponentially with stroke speed, you control the intensity simply by rowing harder or faster; adding or removing water can also fine‑tune the overall load. The sound of water flowing through the tank provides a calming, almost meditative backdrop, making your workouts relaxing as well as effective.

Handcrafted, Sustainable Design

WaterRower frames are handcrafted from sustainably sourced hardwoods, including oak, walnut, cherry, maple and ash. Wood is used not just for aesthetics; it absorbs vibration and sound, creating a smooth and quiet ride. The original WaterRower Oak model is finished in Danish oil and features a 700‑pound weight capacity, demonstrating its durability and suitability for users of all sizes.

Compact Footprint with Upright Storage

Despite its substantial feel, the WaterRower occupies a modest footprint—about 83 inches long and 22 inches wide. When your workout is complete, simply tip the machine upright for vertical storage. Transport wheels make it easy to move, and the absence of a large touchscreen keeps the machine about 20 inches high, so it blends seamlessly with furniture.

Simple yet Expandable Technology

WaterRower’s S4 performance monitor displays key metrics such as distance, time and stroke rate. It doesn’t stream classes, but you can purchase a ComModule to add Bluetooth connectivity, allowing the machine to sync with third‑party apps and training programs. This modular approach lets you keep the classic look while still accessing modern training data and interactive workouts.

Pros and Considerations

Pros

• Full‑body, low‑impact workout: Rowing engages the legs, core, back and arms while minimizing stress on the joints.

• Natural feel and sound: Water resistance and wooden construction create a smooth, realistic rowing experience.

• High weight capacity: Accommodates users up to 700 pounds.

• Beautiful design: Various wood finishes allow the rower to complement home décor.

Considerations

• Higher price point: WaterRower models start around $1,100.

• No built‑in programs: You’ll need the optional ComModule and a third‑party app for interactive workouts.

• Low seat height: The 11.8‑inch seat may be challenging for individuals with limited mobility.

The NOHRD Range: Sustainable Strength & Cardio Solutions

Where WaterRower focuses primarily on rowing, NOHRD expands the concept of wooden fitness into a full suite of strength and cardio equipment. The brand blends craftsmanship and functionality to create eye‑catching pieces that double as furniture.

SlimBeam Cable Machine

One of NOHRD’s flagship products is the SlimBeam cable machine. Unlike bulky metal stack machines, the SlimBeam’s wooden frame houses an elegant dual‑pulley system with height‑adjustable arms. Each weight plate is rubberized and oval shaped to reduce noise and improve durability. A 75 kg weight stack offers plenty of resistance while maintaining a slim profile, and the machine’s cables glide smoothly over ball‑bearing wheels for consistent tension. This versatility makes the SlimBeam ideal for functional training, allowing bilateral or unilateral exercises for every major muscle group.

TriaTrainer Multi‑Position Bench

For strength training in small spaces, the TriaTrainer bench offers three configurations in one compact design. With the bench folded up, it acts as an abdominal and core trainer; unfold one panel to create a semi‑bench for back and glute exercises; fully extend it to perform traditional bench presses and free‑weight movements. Built from solid wood with high‑quality upholstery, the TriaTrainer features an adjustable foot rest and can be ordered in genuine or artificial leather. At only 31 pounds, it’s easy to reposition and supports users up to 330 pounds.

Swing Bells and Accessories

NOHRD also reimagines free weights. Swing Bells are leather‑covered pouches filled with metal pellets that range from 2 kg to 8 kg and come with an ergonomic wooden handle. These bells provide a balanced feel and can be displayed on standing or wall‑mounted racks, bringing a refined look to your weight area. Other accessories, such as wall bars, stretch bars and step boxes, extend the NOHRD aesthetic across mobility and plyometric training.

Cardio Expansion: Sprintbok and Indoor Cycle

Beyond strength, NOHRD offers the Sprintbok curved treadmill and an indoor cycle, both built from hardwoods for a striking appearance. The Sprintbok is fully self‑powered, allowing runners to control speed and intensity without a motor. The indoor cycle pairs a wooden frame with precise mechanics for a smooth, quiet ride. Together with WaterRower, these machines give you a cohesive cardio lineup that complements NOHRD’s strength equipment.

Sustainability & Aesthetics

NOHRD equipment is crafted from sustainably sourced wood and leather, reflecting a commitment to eco‑friendly design. The emphasis on natural materials and sleek lines allows each piece to double as décor, making it easier to integrate workout gear into living spaces. Customers and gym designers appreciate how NOHRD products transform a home gym into a calming, biophilic environment.

Combining WaterRower & NOHRD for a Cohesive Home Gym

Pairing WaterRower with NOHRD equipment creates a unified aesthetic and functional training space. For example, place a WaterRower along one wall for full‑body cardio while installing a SlimBeam on an adjacent wall for strength training. Use the TriaTrainer bench for core work and bench presses, and keep a rack of Swing Bells nearby for dynamic, weighted movements. The consistent use of wood and minimalist design ties the room together, giving your gym a warm, inviting feel.

When selecting pieces, consider your training goals and available space:

1. Small spaces: The TriaTrainer bench and SlimBeam occupy minimal floor area while offering multiple exercise options. Add a WaterRower for cardio and store it upright when not in use.

2. Balanced routines: Combine the WaterRower with the SlimBeam or NOHRD WeightBench to create a circuit that alternates between cardio intervals and strength exercises.

3. Design‑driven gyms: If aesthetics are paramount, choose matching wood finishes across your WaterRower, SlimBeam and Swing Bells for a cohesive look.

Final Thoughts

WaterRower and NOHRD prove that fitness equipment can be both functional and beautiful. WaterRower’s water‑resistance technology delivers a smooth, low‑impact rowing experience with the soothing sound of water, while NOHRD’s wooden strength and cardio machines bring versatility and elegance to any space. Together, these brands offer everything from rowing and running to cable training and free weights, all crafted with sustainability and performance in mind. Whether you’re building a serene corner gym or outfitting a modern studio, investing in WaterRower and NOHRD equipment ensures your workout space is as inspiring as your fitness goals.