Member Spotlight: The Crew of Clearwater

In the heart of Dunedin at 1593 Main Street, just across from Prohibition Kitchen, you’ll find a fitness studio with heart, resilience, and community at its core—The Crew of Clearwater. Founded by Elaine Lawrence, this rowing-focused studio was born out of both passion and necessity.

When Row House Clearwater unexpectedly closed its doors on January 19, 2025, over 100 dedicated members suddenly found themselves without a place to row. Elaine saw not just a fitness gap, but a disruption to a close-knit community that had come to rely on the energy, motivation, and connection rowing brought into their lives. Just eight days later, The Crew of Clearwater opened with a mission to welcome everyone “back in the boat.”

Though the name honors its Clearwater roots, Dunedin is proudly where this business now calls home. Elaine and her family have lived in Dunedin for nearly a decade, and when the Main Street location became available, it felt like fate. With supportive neighbors, an exceptional landlord, and a cozy, intimate studio space, The Crew of Clearwater quickly found its rhythm.

The Crew offers over 20 weekly classes, seven days a week, each one tailored to meet various fitness goals and levels. Whether you’re pushing hard in a HIIT class, finding balance in ROW AND FLOW, or learning the basics in ROWING FUNDAMENTALS, every class emphasizes effort over comparison. You row at your own pace—no judgment, just progress.

The class lineup includes:

  • HIIT: High-intensity intervals with floor work mixed in.
  • DESIGN: Strategic rowing with two focused floor segments.
  • RECOVER: Slower-paced for balance and stretching, sometimes ending in meditation.
  • COMPLETE: Row-heavy classes for endurance and distance.
  • ROWING FUNDAMENTALS: Perfect for beginners or those looking to improve form.
  • ROW AND FLOW: A blend of rowing and yoga for breath and movement.

Inclusivity is central to the studio’s values. Elaine, who herself rows with both a knee and shoulder replacement, makes it clear that rowing is for everyone—young or old, beginner or athlete, even individuals with Parkinson’s. In fact, she recently hosted a group from Mease Life’s Rock Steady Boxing program, describing their joyful experience as a true highlight.

More than just a workout, The Crew is a place to connect. With playlists that spark singalongs and regular encouragement from fellow rowers, it’s not uncommon to leave class smiling just as much as sweating.

New to rowing? Your first class is always free. You might find yourself hooked after just one session.

As Elaine puts it: “Rowing works 86% of your muscles—but when you smile, it’s 100%.”

To learn more, visit www.thecrewofclearwater.com or stop by the studio at 1593 Main Street. Questions? Call (727) 314-7134 or email thecrewofclearwater@gmail.com.

Local Favorite Spot: Pioneer Park
It’s where Elaine and her family sat after house hunting and realized they had found their home. Nine years later, Dunedin still holds that same magic.

Join the Crew. Find your rhythm. Feel at home.