If you’re looking for a fun, affordable and tough twist on connected fitness, look no further than Aviron’s “fitness entertainment” rowing machine

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Aviron was founded by Andy Hoang in 2018, who saw the potential to bring gaming psychology and design to the connected rowing space.

Instead of merely launching a connected rowing machine with virtual leaderboards and stats, Aviron focuses on what it calls “fitness entertainment.” The company offers program categories that include virtually competing against Olympians, instructor-coached classes, and video game-style classes. Aviron applies science to make gameplay fun and addictive for extra consumer motivation.

In a post-pandemic era when connected fitness is facing challenges, can Aviron keep consumers’ attention?

Athletech News put the Aviron Strong Go Rower to the test to find out.

Pros

The Aviron Strong Go Rower has done the seemingly impossible: make tough workouts fun. The rower combines workout and leisure time while still providing a challenge. Unlike many virtual reality (VR) workouts, which entertain but are not targeted to serious athletes, Aviron delivers on both.  

Aviron offers games like “Row Breaker,” where users smash bricks with every stroke, “Row to Riches,” where users battle pirate ships, or “Blaze Breakers” where users save a burning building by spraying a water cannon. The games are reminiscent of old-school arcade games but are designed for a high-res screen.

The app also gives users extensive streaming options, like YouTube, Max, Disney+, Hulu, Spotify, and more. Those looking for a virtual getaway can row through cityscapes or tropical paradises.

credit: Aviron

What stood out most about Aviron was the sheer variety of offerings. I could “compete” in a race against an Olympian or race against a past version of myself, or I could merely watch a favorite show on Netflix as I worked out. The brand accepts and caters to all levels of workout motivation. 

Although the rower caters to all motivation levels through its entertainment offerings, it remained a difficult workout. I’m a very active person but I was exhausted after just twenty minutes of working out with the Strong Go Rower, even on its easier levels. What I enjoyed most about the workout was that it was extremely time-efficient, perfect for busy professionals or those looking to shake up their routine. Because rowing is a low-impact, full-body workout, I felt sore but not strained post-workout. 

The Strong Go Rower is affordable compared to many at-home rowers at only $1599 (on sale for $1299 at time of publishing). Competitors like the Hydrow Wave Rower are similarly priced but lack the gamification features that make Aviron special.

Aviron’s rower is beautifully built, made with premium steel and aluminum. The cushioned, high seat was surprisingly comfortable, and the adjustable straps were secure. The rower combines both air and magnetic resistance and, as a result, is extremely quiet. Despite its price point, the Strong Row Rower seems like a premium offering, even though it lacks a built-in screen. 

credit: Aviron

Using a separate iPad did not impact my experience on the rower compared to competitors with a built-in screen. My device connected very easily to the rower, and the lower price felt very worth the added step of mounting an iPad or iPhone. Aviron’s app even works whether or not you have an active membership, which is generous compared to many other connected fitness brands, which push subscription memberships. The membership is $24/month, a fairly standard price for fitness subscriptions. 

The Strong Go Rower’s leaderboard feature also encourages accountability and engagement. Like many other connected fitness offerings, it shows users their standing compared to others. Unlike many competitors, it takes the leaderboard gamification to the next level with virtual racing against other users and tailored challenges to one’s fitness level and goals. I particularly loved the tailored challenges, which provided extra boosts during tough workouts. For example, it would offer bonus points if I could reach a particular speed for 10 seconds. Aviron also tracks one’s progress and reminds users of their growth for extra motivation. 

credit: Aviron

Cons

For users who enjoy the traditional, instructor-led class format, Aviron might not be the best fit, as it is more focused on the gamification and entertainment angle. The brand does offer classes, but its product library is more limited than those of some competitors. The instructor-led classes also do not have as high a production level as those of competitors like Peloton. 

Although the rower is compact, at only an 84” length and 27” width, it does not fold up like some competitors. Depending on space restrictions, this might bother those in smaller apartments. 

Final Thoughts

The Aviron Strong Go Rower is a fantastic choice for those who want an engaging and dynamic workout option at an affordable price. 

Read more ATN Product Reviews here.

The post Product of the Week: Aviron Strong Go Rower Makes Tough Workouts Fun appeared first on Athletech News.