According to Lauren Keary, BarBend editorial team member and former collegiate rower, “Rowing is great for those who want a full body workout and are looking for a form of cardio that is low impact.” While the best rowing machines offer comfortable, challenging training, few can match the engagement and entertainment brought forth by the Aviron Strong Rower. This Aviron rowing machine combines a durable, ergonomic frame with gamified workouts and countless streaming opportunities that make exercise a fun reprieve rather than a taxing chore.

We’ve tested over 15 different rowers over the years and routinely praise the Aviron Strong Rower for its digital capabilities when it comes to streaming, gamified workouts, and guided programs. These tech features are also the reason I’ve added this Strong Series rower to my personal home gym. However, the price point for the machine (and near-required membership) may keep this profile out of reach for some. In this Aviron Strong Rower review, we’ll outline the machine’s features, examine our experiences, and offer some comparable silhouettes.

For more information on how we test and rate fitness equipment for this review and more, be sure to read the BarBend equipment testing methodology page.

Main Takeaways

The Strong Rower’s media suite allows you to stream popular entertainment services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ in addition to trainer-led workouts and arcade-style modules.

Aviron offers a number of high-quality accessories for this rower, including an upgraded Cloud Seat, Lumbar Support Kit, and on-handle Quick Adjust Resistance Remote.

The compact frame and unique flywheel cage allow for vertical storage when not in use.

Aviron Strong Rower Specs

Retailing for $2,499, the Aviron Strong Rower measures 84 inches long by 27 inches wide by 48 inches tall, making it far shorter than the standard 95-inch length of rowers and, in our opinion, one of the best compact rowing machines. Plus, the geometry of the flywheel cage and front legs allows for convenient upright storage without the need for additional wall anchors.

From a construction standpoint, this Aviron rower uses durable plastic and aluminum across its profile, equating to a weight capacity of 507 pounds. Additionally, we like how the slide rail sits lower to the ground while the seat height remains at 20 inches. This makes getting onto the machine more accessible — you don’t need to lunge over the rail to get onto the saddle, nor do you need to practically climb off the floor once your workout is complete.

Our tester on the Aviron Strong Rower.

Resistance-wise, the Aviron Strong Rower utilizes a dual air and magnetic resistance system that helps this rowing machine better mimic the sensations of on-water rowing. Plus, this twofold system can offer up to 100 pounds of resistance broken into 16 available levels, giving you the opportunity to employ more strength training and challenge into your programming. 

“I really liked the heavier levels for strength training,” notes our tester, a certified personal trainer. “It’s an intensity I’ve rarely found available in home rowing machines.”

A nylon belt connects the rotating handlebar to the flywheel and retracts smoothly for little hangup during sessions. You can also upgrade this component with an optional Quick Adjust Remote System that gives you the power to toggle your resistance levels directly on the bar rather than leaning toward the 22-inch touchscreen. Other available accessories include a more plush Cloud Seat, Lumbar Support Kit, Aviron Rower Mat, and Hook-and-Loop Straps for the foot cradles.

The adjustable foot cradles of the Aviron Strong Rower

Speaking of the foot cradles, one of the more unique conveniences of this rower — one of the best rowing machine for apartments, in our opinion — is the adjustable foot pedals. Unlike other pedals that adjust up and down, you also have the option to toggle the width of your stance. This can be helpful in ensuring your body positioning is comfortable and efficient through your catch, drive, finish, and recovery.

Finally, one of the major components of this Aviron rower is the media suite. This rower offers over 500 workouts in eight different categories, from arcade-style video games to virtual rowing sessions, challenging races against professional athletes, “Power Play” modes where you compete against other Aviron members, and more. 

The media suite also offers the chance to stream popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video directly through the 22-inch HD display, along with Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and other devices.

Our tester navigating the home screen of the Aviron Strong Series Rower

In order to take advantage of these tech-heavy features, though, you’ll need a membership to the Aviron platform. Plans start at $29 monthly, but annual subscriptions are also available for $24 per month — a savings of $60 yearly.

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use the Aviron Strong Rower

While we feel the Aviron Strong Rower can be an excellent piece of equipment for achieving your fitness goals, we understand that not everyone will feel the same about this gamified workout tool. Below are a few camps we feel could benefit from the Aviron Strong Series Rower, as well as a few that may be better off with a different rowing machine.

Recommended for:

Athletes looking for an immersive training experience with multiple workout options and streaming capabilities

Individuals wanting a rower with heightened ergonomics and functionality

Those training in smaller spaces that need a rowing machine capable of vertical storage

Not Recommended for:

Athletes taller than 6 feet, 8 inches — the slide rail can only accommodate individuals at or below this height metric, according to the brand

Those wanting a simplistic workout experience without the need for a subscription to one of the best fitness apps

Budget-minded buyers not looking to shell out nearly $2,500 for a single piece of exercise equipment

Our Experience Training With the Aviron Strong Rower

I’ve used this Aviron Strong Rower for over a year, taking part in a wide array of the available programs, including the arcade-style games, virtual rowing sessions, and “Pros vs. Joes” module, which has you race against professional athletes. I examined the machine’s tech capabilities, ergonomics, storage features and overall training experience during these trials, rating each category on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Here are some of my findings related to this best home gym equipment option.

Ergonomic Conveniences

One of the main features I admire with this Aviron Strong Rower is the brand’s attention to accessibility and ergonomics. The slide rail itself sits low to the ground, meaning you don’t need to step too high over the machine in order to get into the seat. 

However, the raised, well-cushioned saddle eliminates the need to strain or struggle when getting onto or off of this rower. Other rowing machines can sometimes sit too close to the ground, making this act a real pain, especially when dealing with soreness across your joints and back.

We also rate the ergonomics at 4 out of 5 thanks to the unique foot pad design. You can adjust the length of your foot pedals as you would with other rowing machines, but the Aviron build also features a width adjustment that can help you spread out your base for more comfort. This can be helpful when trying to drive back as efficiently as possible in relation to your body type, almost like taking a narrow or wide stance during a back squat.

Our tester sitting atop the Aviron Strong Rower prior to a training session

Additionally, this rower is ergonomic to your training environment thanks to its upright storage capabilities. While the slide rail itself isn’t foldable — a feature once used on the now-discontinued Aviron Impact Series Rower — the compact length does help ensure this machine will fit when stored vertically … provided you have a ceiling height taller than 83 inches.

Aviron Training Platform

What separates the Aviron Strong Rower apart from the pack, in my opinion, is the brand’s expansive media platform of over 500 different workouts across eight different categories. Of course, the arcade-style training modules appeal to the gamer in all of us, but I also appreciate that Aviron offers trainer-led studio workouts, scenic rowing courses, “Pros vs. Joes” competitions, and even live competitions with leaderboards and achievement awards. Essentially, there’s a program for every taste. We rate the available tech at 5 out of 5. 

We also like Aviron’s streaming capabilities for non-training-focused entertainment. The platform is compatible with services like Netflix, Hulu, ESPN+, Disney+, Spotify, and more just in case you’d rather unwind with your favorite series than follow along to the flashing lights and rolling metrics of your typical HIIT sessions. Plus, you can stream these available apps through Wi-Fi or ethernet connections — the Strong Series Rower features dual 2.4 gigahertz ethernet and 5 gigahertz Wi-Fi connectivity.

Our tester viewing their training metrics and adjusting resistance levels on the Aviron Strong Rower’s 22-inch HD touchscreen display

Naturally, though, you’ll need an Aviron membership to access this library of fun and engaging workout programming. Plans are available for $29 per month and allow you to set up unlimited profiles — a definite perk for households with multiple rowing enthusiasts. Aviron also offers an annual plan that cuts the payment to $24 monthly.

I’ve found that this best online workout program is worth the added investment — you only get a handful of available workouts and data tracking capabilities without a subscription — but the price of the machine and the service should definitely be considered before moving forward with your transaction. After all, we’re talking about a rowing machine that costs nearly $2,500 just for the rower itself.

[Related: How Much Do Rowing Machines Cost?]

Luxury Add-Ons

I also recommend the Aviron Strong Rower for beginners because of the convenient add-ons available for your machine. We rate the customizations at 4.75 out of 5 given that you can tailor your rowing experience to your liking with comfier seat padding, back support, extra stability across your feet, and more convenient settings adjustments.

Currently, I have the available Cloud Seat and on-handle Quick Adjust Remote Control attached to my Strong Rower, and I can attest that they’ve made my workouts all the more enjoyable. Having the ability to quickly toggle through resistance levels is a great perk rather than bending forward to make adjustments on-screen. Plus, the Cloud Seat is firm yet plush, and I enjoy this makeup more than the typical plastic saddles of other rowers.

I also think the Lumbar Support Kit can be great for novice rowers who may find it uncomfortable to stretch completely through the drive and finish phases of your stroke. That said, all of these accessories will cost you extra — up to $129 — so if you’re interested in these add-ons, be sure to add them to your final total prior to checkout.

[Related: Rowing Machine Muscles Worked]

What to Consider Before Buying the Aviron Strong Rower

According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, rowing machines are some of the most versatile pieces of compact exercise equipment. “You can use them for high-intensity interval training and steady-state cardio exercise. They can also be used for some strength training exercises, like pikes, for added versatility,” she says. As such, ensuring your chosen profile is right for your fitness needs is a must. Below are a few factors to consider when looking to add a rower to your home gym ensemble.

Product Dimensions: “Size, weight, and portability are important, as you’ll need to ensure the machine will fit in your space and it’s relatively easy to move if you won’t be able to leave it stationary,” Capritto notes. Break out the tape measure and ensure your available space can conveniently house your chosen rowing machine.

Resistance Type: While magnetic rowing machines can offer multiple levels of resistance in a quiet fashion, they can oftentimes be more expensive than, say, air rowing machines or water-powered rowers. Think through your budget and training preferences when deciding between one profile or the next.

Available Programming: If you want to follow along to trainer-led workouts or have access to your favorite streaming platforms, confirm that your rower supports such connectivity. It can also be wise to search for a rowing machine with Bluetooth connectivity if you prefer to pair one of the best heart rate monitors or pair of headphones to your machine for more convenient listening or data tracking.

Price: High-quality rowing machines can cost upwards of $3,000 for just the machine itself. Be sure that your budget can afford such price tags along with any required subscription fees or additional accessories you may desire.

Aviron Strong Rower Vs. Competitors

If you haven’t gathered by now, we’re big fans of the Aviron Strong Rower. That said, we realize that it isn’t the sole rowing machine on the market and there are multiple silhouettes available that could be a better fit for your personal training space. Below, we’ve outlined two highly comparable rowers that we believe stack up well to the Strong Rower from Aviron — the Hydrow Pro Rower and Ergatta Rower.

The Hydrow Pro Rower has routinely been in contention as one of the best rowers overall thanks to its impressive Hydrow training platform and whisper-quiet operation made possible through the electromagnetic resistance — a quieter option than the dual magnetic and air system used by Aviron. The Hydrow Pro is also cheaper than the Strong Rower at $2,195, but does not feature standalone vertical storage. You’ll need a wall anchor kit (sold separately) if you want to store this vessel upright in between workouts.

The Ergatta Rower matches up well with this Aviron rowing machine thanks to a gamified fitness platform that can bring that arcade vibe to each workout. Plus, the wooden frame gives your setup a unique aesthetic that’s more living room-approved than the aluminum and plastic design of the Aviron profile. However, we feel the Strong Rower can be more accommodating given the higher seat height and available add-ons — the Ergatta’s seat sits rather low to the ground, meaning getting onto and off the saddle could be a problem for those with joint issues.

Ordering and Assembling the Aviron Strong Rower

Ordering the Aviron Strong Rower is a simple endeavor similar to any other online transaction. The machine arrives in a medium-sized box that can be easy to maneuver through your space. I put my entire Aviron rower together by myself and had no true issues thanks to the detailed instructions and clean packaging. That is, until it came time to connect the slide rail to the front flywheel cage.

This could be an anomaly with my profile alone, but the opening where the slide rail bolts to the main flywheel was off-kilter for me, meaning there was resistance when trying to place the rail end into position. After investigation, I determined that the plastic overlays had crossed, which created a lip within the interior.

Our tester getting the Aviron Strong Rower into position for training

I was able to resolve this issue by backing out a few screws, but it was admittedly frustrating when trying to get my machine up and running. Granted, this could be a singular occurrence, but I’d rate the assembly process at 4 out of 5 given the off chance that others may experience similar dilemmas during construction.

Places to Buy the Aviron Strong Rower

The Aviron Strong Rower is available online directly from the brand’s retail site. Additionally, you can snag this best rowing machine for tall people from select third-party retailers, including Amazon and DICK’S Sporting Goods.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

Aviron is a relatively new brand in the realm of at-home rowing machines, but has been able to garner a large following thanks to the available streaming capabilities and impressive durability of their rowing machines. Currently, Aviron offers both the Strong Rower and the Strong Go Rower — a near-identical profile that swaps the 22-inch touchscreen for a dedicated media shelf for DIY streaming setups.

To contact the brand with any inquiries, Aviron offers a Live Chat feature on its website. Questions can also be relayed via email at info@avironactive.com for general inquiries or support@avironactive.com for product support. Aviron can be reached via telephone Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, at 877-955-4222.

Warranties

When you purchase your Aviron Strong Rower directly from the brand, you’re automatically given Aviron’s standard warranty coverage, which includes 1-year support for parts and 10-year support for the frame. You can opt into the brand’s Lifetime Warranty Bundle prior to checkout, though, for an additional $9 monthly.

Final Thoughts on the Aviron Strong Rower

If you’re willing to cover the premium price tag, the Aviron Strong Rower can be an excellent addition to your home gym. Not only is the magnetic-air hybrid resistance challenging enough for continued motivation and progress, but the frame itself is plenty durable and accommodating for a wide range of body types. Plus, the available workouts and streaming capabilities place the Aviron platform amongst some of the best rowing apps we’ve tested.

Of course, before any large home gym equipment purchase, it can be beneficial to think through a few factors. Price and product dimensions are always worth ensuring, but you should also confirm that the available resistance and digital programming match up to your personal workout preferences. If you’re looking for a compact rower with vertical storage capabilities and a large roster of engaging, entertaining, and fun workout modules, we cannot recommend the Aviron Strong Rower enough.

Aviron Strong Rower FAQs

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