(Bloomberg) — Recording artists Justin Timberlake and Lizzo invested in Hydrow, a maker of at-home rowing machines that’s discussing going public through a merger with a blank-check firm.
NFL star Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs and comedian Whitney Cummings, who like Timberlake and Lizzo, own Hydrow machines, are also among the company’s previously undisclosed investors. The foursome and retailer Fabletics join actor Kevin Hart, who was named creative director of Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Hydrow last October.
“There’s no better workout out there than rowing,” Hart said in an emailed statement. “I truly believe in this machine’s potential to change people’s lives.”
Hart’s HartBeat Ventures has backed companies including beverage maker BrightFox, car marketplace Rodo, food-ordering startup Snackpass and social-media collaboration site Platform.
Hydrow’s sales grew by 500% in calendar 2020, and it’s eyeing international expansion. The company has raised almost $200 million in total funding from backers including private equity firm L Catterton and Rx3 Growth Partners, co-founded by Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
“It is an honor to have some of the most well-regarded names in music, sports and entertainment support our crew as we strive to enhance our members’ lives through the shared experience of rowing,” said Bruce Smith, Hydrow’s founder and chief executive officer.
The company says its workouts engage 86% of the body’s major muscle groups, trumping both running and cycling. It also provides mat workouts including yoga, pilates and strength training.
Read more: Hydrow Said in Talks to Go Public in Sandbridge X2 SPAC Deal
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