Aviron Strong Series Rower Review 2024: A Heavy-Duty Smart Rower

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A rowing machine is an excellent addition to any home gym because it allows you to get a full-body workout from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for a cardio machine for weight loss, a rower with a resistance system can help burn calories through aerobic and strength training programs. Water rowers use water to provide resistance and offer an authentic “on the water” experience with smooth strokes, but is that enough to keep rowing?

Let’s face it, rowing workouts can be downright repetitive. That’s where the Aviron Strong Series Rowers comes in. It has the Aviron Active app, a subscription-based service that offers unique workout programming from guided sessions to competitive games. It’s also one of the few rowing apps on the market that allows you to stream entertainment from Netflix, Disney+ or other services. It also works with or without a subscription, offering users their full workout history, metrics tracking and more.

Is the Aviron Strong Series one of the best rowers out there? In this review, we’ll dive into all the specs, benefits, considerations, how the programming works, who it’s best for, who it will not work for, what users have to say and how it stacks up against other rowing machines.

Aviron Strong Series Rower Features At A Glance

• Dimensions: 84 inches L x 27 inches W x 48 inches H
• Seat height: 20 inches
• Weight: 114 pounds
• User weight capacity: 507 pounds
• Display: 22-inch HD touchscreen
• Programming: Aviron Active membership or manual mode
• Tracking metrics: Distance, pace, watts, resistance, calories burned, time
• Storage: Upright
• Warranty: 10-year frame, one-year parts; two or three-year extended warranty available for an additional cost
• Price: $2,199

What We Like About the Aviron Strong Series Rower

• Multiple workout categories to choose from like games and competitive style workouts
• Can be used without a subscription
• Dual air and magnetic resistance system
• Programming for beginner, intermediate or advanced exercisers
• Reinforced steel rail
• Foot pads can be adjusted four ways
• Extra wide ergonomic seat
• Accessory options are available for those who want upgrades

What We Didn’t Like About the Aviron Strong Series Rower Cons

• High price point
• Heart rate tracking device not included
• Upright storage is not ideal for those with low ceilings

What Is the Aviron Strong Series Rower?

The Aviron Strong Series Rower is a cardio machine that has a compact ergonomic design. It features a 22-inch HD touchscreen with the unique Aviron Active programming that allows users to gamify their workout and has a manual mode. It's designed for people who want a full-body workout from the comfort of home, but want extra features to make training fun and comfortable.

Benefits of the Aviron Strong Series Rower

The Aviron Strong Series Rower has several health benefits. For starters, rowing machines work multiple muscle groups including your back, arms, legs and core. The U.S. Department of Health states that adults should do at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, and muscle-strengthening activities that involve all major muscle groups two times weekly. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise should get your heart beating faster, such as walking briskly or rowing. Muscle-strengthening exercises should make your muscles work harder than usual such as body-weight movements, weight training and resistance-based exercises. The Aviron Strong Series Rower has cardio-focused workouts and strength-building sessions where you can add resistance up to 100 pounds.

Each session is completed from a seated position to take the stress off the knees and other joints for a low-impact workout. The user controls the intensity and speed, making it suitable for beginners or those with rowing experience. This type of exercise can help improve posture by strengthening the upper back, chest and core muscles. There are also mental health benefits. The National Institute of Health says physical activity can reduce feelings of depression and stress, enhance your overall mood and emotional well-being, increase your energy level and improve sleep.

Aviron Strong Series Specs

Footprint

This machine is 84 inches long, 27 inches wide and 48 inches tall. It's designed for home gym use and does not exceed seven feet long. Despite its compact size, it can accommodate users up to 6'8" tall and has a weight capacity of 507 pounds. There are two built-in wheels in the front to move the rower, and it can be stored upright with no wall mount required.

For more compact options, check out The Best Compact Rowing Machines for Small Spaces.

Construction and durability

The frame on the Strong Series rower is reinforced aluminum and steel, and it has a lifetime warranty. It has a weight capacity of 507 pounds, but the rower itself weighs 114 pounds. The other components are durable plastic, and the four non-slip feet keep it stable as you row. There is a nylon belt attached to the handle, which is quieter and more durable than chain or cable belts on other rowers.

For easy mount and dismount, the seat is 20 inches off the ground; it's wider to accommodate users of all sizes. The width and length of the foot pads are adjustable, and the handlebar rotates so your wrist is always in a comfortable neutral position.

Resistance

The Strong Series Rower uses a dual air and magnetic resistance system. The air resistance system mimics the feeling of rowing on water, and the magnetic system increases the user output to build strength. There are 16 levels of resistance for cardio and strength training up to 100 pounds. Levels one to 10 are for low-impact cardio sessions, and levels 11 through 16 allow users to incorporate strength training exercises like bicep curls, back rows and tricep extensions.

Resistance is adjusted automatically during an Aviron Active program or manually adjusted using the buttons on the screen. Aviron offers an alternative handle with built-in controls to adjust the resistance for an additional $99.

Display

Metrics are displayed on the 22-inch touchscreen made of durable tempered glass for the duration of your workout. As you row, the meters, watts, time, pace, calories, output, strokes and heart rate are tracked on screen. Heart rate is tracked using a compatible device by Wahoo, Polar or Garmin. We really like that you can hide your metrics for a more immersive experience, such as during a scenic row.

In the profile section users can view their all-time workout history and see the metrics from previous workouts. There’s the option to take a profile picture using the front-facing two-megapixel camera.

How Much Does the Aviron Strong Series Rower Cost?

The Aviron Strong Series Rower costs $2,199, and shipping is not included. There is no white glove assembly option, but Aviron states assembly generally takes less than one hour. If you’d like to make arrangements to have the rower delivered within a certain time frame, you can reach out via email.

A subscription is not required, but an Aviron membership costs $29 monthly or $25 per month if you pay for a year.

What to Consider When Purchasing

Subscription

Aviron Active is a subscription-based program with eight categories ranging from guided exercises to games. With a membership, you can work out with other members in real-time, access streaming accounts and more. A yearly membership factors out to $25 per month, or you can pay $29 monthly.

A subscription is not required to use the Aviron Strong Series Rower. Users without a membership can view rowing metrics, create a profile, add and follow friends, track workout history, adjust the resistance and chart performance in manual mode.

Working Out with the Aviron Strong Series Rower

Technology

This rower comes equipped with a 22-inch touchscreen that can pivot four ways for optimal viewing. It has WiFi capabilities, and an internet connection is required for Aviron Active workouts. There are also Bluetooth-compatible five-watt speakers if you want to stream your class or playlist to your favorite earbuds.

During the Aviron Active workouts, the resistance adjusts automatically. Aviron rowers can also be paired with a heart rate monitor that must be purchased separately. Currently, the compatible devices are Wahoo, Polar and Garmin.

Related Post: The Best Heart Rate Monitors for Cycling, Running and More

Workout programs

Aside from using the Strong Series Rower for manual workouts, Aviron Active has eight workout categories. These categories include group fitness classes and gamified workouts. Studies have shown that group exercise classes result in greater exertion and higher perceptions of enjoyment in adults, and that gamification supports intrinsic motivation. Here’s a breakdown of each workout category:

• Games: There are over 12 to choose from, and you can play with friends. Each game has different graphics and objectives, and users can choose an easy, medium or hard difficulty level
• Streaming: Entertainment from your existing streaming accounts including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify and YouTube can be accessed as your metrics are tracked on the screen
• Competition: Users can compete to break their personal records or against others to top the leaderboard in race-style competitions. There are several race length options to choose from
• Power play: Combines playing a game with a structured workout using rowing output to earn points while following set interval or distance goals based on the program you choose
• Pros vs. Joes: Race against professional athletes to see how you stack up. The rower will adjust automatically to the same resistance, and you will see your progress against the athlete you choose in real-time
• Coached programs: Workouts are led by a trainer that integrates training sessions and programs for on and off the rower. Options include form and technique-focused classes, weight training, bodyweight training, flexibility and mobility work, cardio training and more
• Guided programs: Instructed workouts that are filtered by time, difficulty and fitness goals
• Scenic rowing: Row in beautiful destinations around the world as you listen to real rowing audio and watch the video speed match your cadence for a realistic, immersive experience

Each minute you row, you earn an Aviron coin that can be used to upgrade game backgrounds and other customization features.

Community

An Aviron Active membership is not required to build a profile and add and follow friends. The profile section displays which friends are online, and subscribers can engage with friends in cooperative and competitive games to earn a top spot on the leaderboard. The leaderboard includes all Aviron members, and there’s a separate leaderboard for friends. Members and nonmembers can earn and unlock achievements based on their progress.

What Customers Say About the Aviron Strong Series Rower

The Strong Series Rower is rated 4.8/5 stars on the Aviron website. Many positive reviews mention that the rower operates smoothly and quietly and that they enjoy the Aviron Active classes. Reviewer Rachel F. states, “After shopping around for rowers we settled on the Aviron with hopes that it would live up to its reputation. It has far surpassed any expectations and has brought new life to my workouts. Between the endless workout options and the amazing Aviron community, the only regret is that I didn’t get my rower sooner.”

Some critical feedback we noticed was that users wished that Aviron Active offered live classes in addition to the guided workouts. We also noticed that users stated the software updates were inconvenient at times. While it is great that Aviron makes updates to fix bugs and make improvements, an update may prevent those in a rush from starting a workout immediately.

Who the Aviron Strong Series Rower Is Best For

The Aviron Strong Series Rower is best for beginner or advanced exercisers looking for a low-impact cardio machine for their home gym that is durable and provides different workout options. It's an excellent option for users who want to skip the subscription but want detailed workout history and metrics. It’s also ideal for those who want to play games, interact with a community of users and follow guided programming. The Strong Series Rower is also one of few rowers on the market that gives users access to streaming services while they work out.

Who the Aviron Strong Series Rower Will Not Work For

One setback of the Aviron Strong Series Rower is the $2,199 price point. While this is high as compared to other budget-friendly rowers on the market, such as the ProForm 750r Rower for $699, it has a ton of upgrades. That being said, if you don’t plan on using the 22-inch touchscreen for programming or the metrics it may not be worth it. Those who prefer a simple interface will likely not like all the advanced features. It’s also not ideal for those looking for a foldable option.

Related Post: ProForm 750R Rower Review

Aviron Strong Series Rower Accessories

Aviron offers several different accessories for the Strong Series Rower that are available for an additional cost. Here’s a breakdown of all the accessories:

• Quick-adjust resistance remote: $99; handlebar with resistance adjustment buttons
• Aviron mat: $89; a six-millimeter thick mat that is 87 inches long and 34 inches wide to protect the floor
• Hook and loop straps: $29; upgraded Velcro straps for your feet
• Cloud seat: $99; upgraded ergonomic seat that is soft and supportive
• Lumbar support: $129; provides cushioned support for the lower back

There’s also the option to bundle the accessories with the rower. The Strong Performance Package is $2,299 and includes the rower, hook and loop straps and the rower mat and saves $18. The Strong Premium Package is $2,469 and it has all the accessories listed and saves $175. We recommend considering the Aviron mat if it’s within your budget to protect your home gym flooring from sweat and repeated use.

Assembly and Installation

The Strong Series rower comes with everything needed for assembly, including the tools. We found 11 assembly steps in the user manual and a short list of additional instructions to connect to the internet and set up an Aviron account. This rower does weigh 114 pounds, which may be challenging for some to move from the delivery location to their room of choice. However, several reviews mention that assembly is easy.

Warranty and Customer Service

The Strong Series Rower comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame that protects against manufacturing defects, and a one-year warranty on the parts such as the power adapter, touch screen, carriage, seat, knob, resistance system and sensors. Aviron offers the option to extend the parts warranty. A two-year warranty costs $199, and a three-year warranty costs $299.

Aviron Strong Series vs Impact Rower

The Aviron Impact Series Rower is a budget-friendly Smart rower that has a lot of the same great features, including the 22-inch touchscreen and 16 levels of resistance. Some other differences are:

• Touchscreen: Strong Series screen pivots four ways, and the Impact pivots up and down
• Weight: Aviron Impact has a lightweight design and weighs 97 pounds, and the Strong Series has a reinforced frame and weighs 114 pounds
• Weight capacity: Strong Series can hold users up to 507 pounds and the Impact Series holds users up to 397 pounds
• Storage: Impact Series rower is foldable, and the Strong Series is stored upright
• Footpad: Both rowers have adjustable foot pads. The Impact Series has two-way adjustable foot pads, and the Strong Series has four-way adjustable foot pads

The Impact Series Rower does not have a phone holder or fans. There is also no lumbar support and quick-adjust handle accessory options. It costs $1,899; $300 less than the Strong Series. The price does not include the Aviron Active subscription, which costs $29 monthly for all Aviron products.

Aviron Strong Series Rower Versus ProForm Pro R10 Rower

The ProForm Pro R10 Rower has a SpaceSaver design that allows it to be folded for storage. Like the Strong Series, it has an oversized ergonomic cushioned seat and a steel rail. One big difference is that the Pro R10 costs $1,403; $796 less than the Strong Series.

While it has a smaller 10-inch screen, workouts can be streamed using an active iFit membership, and a three-year family membership is included in the price. The resistance levels are adjusted automatically throughout the workout for both rowers, but the Pro R10 has 24 levels as compared to the Strong Series which has 16. The Pro R10 has a magnetic resistance system like the Strong Series, but does not have an additional air resistance system.

To learn more, check out the ProForm Pro R10 Rower Review.

Aviron Strong Series Rower Versus Hydrow Rower

The Hydrow Rower costs slightly more than the Strong Series. It’s priced at $2,495 and has several upgraded features similar to the Strong Series. First, it has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that streams live and on-demand classes for $38 per month. There’s also the option to add a personal coach for $79 per month, and both rowers are fully functional without a membership. The Hydrow can also be stored upright, but it requires a wall mount and the Strong Series can stand on its own.

For more information, check out the Hydrow Rower Review.

Aviron Strong Series Rower FAQs

Does Aviron have Netflix?

Netflix can be streamed on the Aviron Strong Series Rower while you work out using an existing subscription.

What muscle does rowing work the most?

Rowing machines work multiple muscle groups, including your back, arms, legs and core.

Can I use Aviron without a subscription?

Yes, this rower is fully functional in manual mode without a subscription.

How loud is the Aviron rowing machine?

Aviron states that the Strong Series Rower operates at approximately 60 decibels—comparable to a conversational volume or an air conditioner running.

What is the weight limit for Aviron Rower?

The weight limit for the Aviron Strong Series is 507 pounds.

The Takeaway: Is Aviron Strong Series Rower Right for You?

Overall, the Aviron Strong Series Rower is a high-quality cardio machine that is suitable for users of different sizes. It has unique gamified programming and different workout class options to motivate users at any level to reach fitness goals. Those with a more flexible budget and don’t mind paying a little extra for some fun features will enjoy this rower. It can be stored upright but may not be an ideal choice for those who have low ceilings since it stands seven feet tall. Those on a budget or who want a more simple interface might consider another rower. That being said, many users can benefit from the unique program offerings that include cardio and strength training options. 

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.