A former Wall Street stock trader has launched a rowing studio in Jersey City that opened its doors on September 5 and will have a grand opening celebration in October.
Brian Strack’s dream was to “combine his entrepreneurial spirit with a healthy lifestyle,” he said. Strack researched fitness studios and decided to open a Jersey City branch of Row House, a national chain with dozens of locations across the country.
The new location is at 70 Hudson Street, steps from the Hudson River and three blocks from the Exchange Place PATH and light rail stations.
“I live in Bergen County, but I saw this location on the waterfront and fell in love with the area,” he said.
Row House utilizes the ergometer, or rowing machine. Rowing has been called one of the most effective full-body workouts, as it utilizes 85 percent of the body’s muscles.
“Rowing maximizes calorie burn, activates the core, strengthens and lengthens the body and ultimately improves posture,” he said. “It focuses on the safety and longevity of their bodies. The modern studio welcomes members into an atmosphere centered on camaraderie and drive.”
The studio has six class offerings — House, Body, Power, Restore, Full Row, and Stroke — to accommodate all fitness levels.
Strack said he has plans to open two more locations in the surrounding area.
The studio already has branches in West New York, Chelsea, and Montclair. The new location isn’t for slackers; it opens at 5 a.m. and closes at 9. Weekend hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The daily operations will be run by General Manager Kevin Del Tejo, who has worked in fitness in various capacities, including operating a karate dojo.
“Kevin and I are excited to bring this fun and unique rowing concept to the Jersey City area,” said Strack. “We’re located right along the Hudson River, so we see the amount of people interested in rowing just by looking outside.”
