Rowing, an individual-focused activity when trained indoors, sets the tone for a community-driven but personal fitness journey. Two months ago, Malden welcomed a rowing-centered fitness facility, The Crew, designed to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all.
Bryn Garrity describes the benefits of a BikeErg, of which the user can stop pedaling and the wheel, at the front of every ergometer and under the handles of the BikeErg, will continue spinning. MACK KEATING
Behind this vision is Malden resident Bryn Garrity, an experienced rower and coach who has dedicated nearly two decades to mastering the sport, going as far as competing D1 at Villanova University and D3 at Wellesley College.
After competing at the collegiate level, she transitioned to coaching, working with athletes of all skill levels. “What makes rowing so special is its adaptability,” Garrity shared. “It’s a sport where anyone can find their rhythm and improve at their own pace.”
“It’s one of the few sports where you don’t need any prior experience to jump in and start benefiting.” This is why Garrity loves the sport so much. “You can push yourself as hard as you want, and it’s just as rewarding for a beginner as it is for a professional.”
Her years of experience on and off water ultimately inspired her to create a space where the benefits of rowing could be accessible to anyone.
The Crew embodies inclusivity in every detail. A pride flag prominently displayed at the front of the classroom signals its commitment to being a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals, and two private, single-occupancy bathrooms offer added security for gender-nonconforming individuals or anyone seeking privacy.
Furthermore, the gym’s layout is meticulously designed to ensure accessibility, featuring ADA-compliant distances between ergometers (rowing machines) to accommodate wheelchairs and elevated machines for those who may struggle with traditional low-seated equipment.
“For me, inclusivity isn’t just about checking boxes,” Garrity explained. “It’s about creating a space where people feel they belong the moment they walk through the door. Everyone deserves a chance to better themselves without judgment or barriers.”
While group fitness is typically dominated by women due to its sense of community, Garrity hopes to attract a diverse membership base. “I do hope that men find their way to us. Indoor rowing is thankfully a more individual sport, so the inclusion of men won’t impact the safety of our female members in the same way as CrossFit or self-defense practices,” she explained.
The Crew’s ergometers set up for a class activity and group exercises. MACK KEATING
“Seeing the pushback online by women in the fitness space, I think there needs to be even more representation and focus on performance,” she explained. “My goal is to be a space where everyone can gather and improve themselves.”
At the same time, Garrity is also proactive about maintaining a safe environment, recognizing potential challenges. “I anticipate that I will need to be on the lookout for derogatory language and intimidation more than physical violence,” she explained. “I know that the baseline of being a known inclusive space will deter many of the ‘wrong’ people. For that, I am grateful.”
Beyond its design, The Crew fosters a welcoming culture. Group fitness classes, personal training, and rowing workshops bring members together while allowing them to focus on individual goals. Garrity sees this as a key part of fostering a strong community: “Overall, I think a growing membership base of all different people can only help my business and add to the sense of community I hope to build,” she shared.
Since its opening, The Crew has become a space where performance and inclusivity intersect. With a focus on creating a welcoming and safe environment, Garrity has built more than just a gym—she has created a community where everyone is encouraged to thrive.
