By Maddie Smith
Do you want to get in shape, but don’t idolize the idea of running alone for five miles a day in the harsh Minnesota weather? Believe it or not, you’re not in the minority! Combining healthy habits, fun times, teamwork, and self-growth is all possible at Studio 223.
Studio 223 offers a variety of classes, ranging from TRX (suspension training that uses body weight to increase core strength, balance, and flexibility) to yoga (for all levels, ranging from Gentle Yoga to Heated Vinyasa Flow) to the increasingly popular rowing classes.
Rowing is one of few activities that provides strength training to the full body. While building each of the major muscle groups, rowing also combines cardio and strength training to tone muscles and burn calories. It is both challenging and rewarding.
A member at Studio 223, Matt Elder participates in rowing classes for the obvious reasons: to stay healthy and in shape. He also relishes the secondary benefits of the healthy environment as he meets new people, enjoys regulated temperatures, and receives professional feedback.
Many people come from local areas towns — Chatfield, Fountain, Preston, Rochester — to attend rowing classes. Despite the large membership, classes are small and personal with about six members each session. Unlike in many large classes, instructors are able to deliver one-on-one attention and advice during the full class hour.
Whether you are a professional rower ready for the Olympics or just learning about it now, you will feel right at home in any of Studio 223’s distinct rowing classes. If you are new to the activity, Ready Set Row is a class is perfect for you since it is designed for beginners. In this class, participants learn the proper movement of rowing, how to safely strengthen specific muscle groups without causing injury, and other basics. As members gain strength and experience, Rowing 2.0 is the presented challenge for ladies and Grow Row tests the strength of male participants. In both Rowing 2.0 and Grow Row, participants focus on building upon the basics by improving time strokes per minute. The range of classes gives everyone an opportunity to push themselves.
As far as intensity, individuals physically benefit from rowing based on the amount of effort they put forth. The motto at Studio 223, “I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy, I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it,” isn’t for decoration. The cost of physical benefit is effort. It’s up to you to embrace the challenge, break a sweat, and see the results to a degree that is suitable for you.
No matter which rowing class you participate in, each experience is unique and personal. It’s available for people of all body shapes and fitness levels. As Elder states, “It’s one class for people of all levels.” The trainers are experienced, and member are supportive. Whether you plan to be social, healthy, or competitive, Studio 223 teachers will guide you towards success and wellness, all under the roof of a thriving community environment.
The wide range of classes at Studio 223 offers something for everyone! You can be the next member to feel the personal, social, and health benefits at a convenient location on Main Street in Chatfield. Studio 223 is more than just a gym. As Elder happily says, “It’s a community. We help each other progress physically and mentally.” Start your first class today by visiting Studio 223’s website or stopping by in person.
Don’t force yourself alone onto the Minnesota roads for five miles a day to get into shape. Let your next miles lead you to the fun, healthy, community environment at Studio 223. For more information, visit studio-223.com, follow Studio 223 on Instagram or Facebook, or contact Kate Schroeder or Margo Tuohy at info@studio-223.com.

Photo submitted

Photo submitted

