When it comes to full-body cardio sessions, the best rowing machines are a staple amongst home gym enthusiasts. Today’s rowers aren’t just your basic profiles with simplified screens, though. Silhouettes like the Aviron Strong Go Rower bring engaging modules, entertainment suites, and regular challenges right into your training space (provided you have a dedicated device for appropriate streaming setups).
In this Aviron Strong Go Rower review, I’ll share everything you need to know about this budget-friendly alternative to the brand’s original rowing silhouette: The Aviron Strong Series Rower. Interested in leveling up your at-home training? Let’s get into our findings.
Put to the Test by Home Gym Equipment Experts
Our team here at Garage Gym Reviews includes certified personal trainers, gym owners, strength coaches, registered dietitians, and even an Olympian. Between us, we’ve tested countless pieces of fitness equipment over the years, including more than 30 different rowing machines.
While we haven’t tested the Aviron Strong Go Rower extensively yet, multiple team members have used and tested the original Aviron Strong Series Rower, which is the exact same rower sans a 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen.
As part of our multi-point examination, we used our rowing machine testing methodology to calculate ratings on a scale of 1 to 5 for a variety of important categories, including:
- Footprint and Portability: This score rates the overall size of a rower, as well as how easy it is to move around. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, one person can move the rower alone, and it easily stands up vertically or folds for storage.
- Adjustability and Ergonomics: We rate the rowing experience based on feel and how much you can customize the rower to your needs. To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars, a rower should comfortably accommodate users between 5 feet, 2 inches and 6 feet, 4 inches. Footbeds should also feature some customization for accommodating different foot sizes, and resistance should be toggleable across a moderate range of intensities.
- Dynamic Programming: For rowers with built-in programming, this score rates the quality of the workouts, the variety of options, and any other training-specific features. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, a rower should feature, at minimum, a handful of built-in workouts, like a 500-meter or 2,000-meter set. Bonus points are awarded to machines compatible with streamable workout libraries of on-demand or live classes.
The Aviron Strong Go rower is a strong, durable rowing machine that offers dual air and magnetic resistance, which means you’ll have tons of adjustments and customizations. To use the Aviron app, you’ll need your own device but following along makes workouts more fun and engaging.
What our tester says:
“Aviron gamified training is pretty special, and if you want a gamified experience, this is a great value.”
A Quick Look at the Aviron Strong Go Rower
For those who are familiar with the original Aviron Strong Series Rower, the Go edition is the exact same rowing machine without the built-in 22-inch HD touchscreen. Instead, the Aviron Strong Go is designed to work with your own iPad, saving significant money across the build. The rower syncs with your media device via Bluetooth for a seamless rowing experience.
At the time of writing, the original Strong Series Rower costs $2,499, while the Strong Go Rower only costs $1,599. With the Go, you’re missing out on the 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen, but if that’s not important to you and you already have access to a Bluetooth-ready media device, the Go can save you up to $900.
The Aviron app is only available on the App Store, so for now, you need to use an iPad, though Android support may arrive at some point in the future. This can be somewhat confusing, since the MyAviron Companion app (a tracking and community service separate from the Aviron workout library) is available for iOS and Android.
The rower is durable and comfortable to use, and Aviron offers some of the most unique programming we’ve seen. There are plenty of classes, scenic rides, challenges, and games to enjoy, and the platform is integrated with popular entertainment apps like Spotify, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more. So, if you often find yourself bored and zoning out during cardio sessions, the Aviron Strong Go Rower may be just the thing you need.
Before You Buy
- The Strong Go rower is nearly identical to the original Strong Series rower, but an iPad holder has replaced the 22-inch touchscreen, so you can use your own device.
- At the time of writing, the Aviron app is only available on the App Store, so you have to use an iPad or iOS-powered iPhone.
- The rower uses dual air and magnetic resistance for an exceptionally smooth rowing experience.
Is the Aviron Strong Go Rower Worth It?
The Aviron Strong Go rower is $900 cheaper than its big brother, the original Strong Series Rower, but that doesn’t make it a perfect fit for all users. Here’s who we think should consider the Aviron Strong Go, as well as who may want to avoid it.
Great for:
- iPad owners looking for an interactive virtual rowing experience
- Aviron fans interested in a more budget-minded rowing machine
- Athletes living in small spaces—the Aviron Strong Go is capable of vertical storage
Not recommended for:
- Anyone seeking a budget-friendly rower with a cost below $1,600
- People who want a large, built-in touch screen
- Individuals who don’t enjoy virtual games and challenges in their workout routine
Aviron Strong Go Rower Specs
| Footprint | 84” L x 27” W x 48” H |
| Upright Storage Dimensions | 35” L x 27” W x 83” H |
| Seat Height | 20” |
| Weight | 105 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 507 lbs |
| Frame | Aluminum |
| Programming | Aviron Active programming |
| Display | Bring your own iOS device |
| Resistance | Dual air and magnetic flywheel |
| Resistance Levels | 16 |
| Warranty | 20-year limited warranty |
Experience Using the Aviron Strong Go Rower
For this review, two of our staff members used the original Strong Series rower, which is nearly identical to the Aviron Strong Go (minus the built-in touchscreen). Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the lead reviewer at Garage Gym Reviews Everything, and GGR Senior Staff Writer Ben Emminger, CNC, CSNC trained with this rowing machine for multiple weeks, taking notes on their overall experiences and impressions.
Both Ben and Lindsay are experienced product testers who’ve used countless pieces of exercise equipment over the years, and both were thoroughly impressed by the Aviron layout. In addition to the wide variety of available virtual programs, the rower is surprisingly quiet, comfortable, and ergonomic with multiple adjustment points at the footbeds and seat.
Lindsay said, “What initially caught my attention was how smooth it felt; really solid, no shakiness, and everything felt consistent.”
Yes, it costs more than alternatives like the legendary Concept2 RowErg, but the Strong Go offers some of the best virtual rowing experiences we’ve ever witnessed, all at a significantly lower cost than the original Strong Series.
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Overall, this can be a great way to get in your cardiovascular training, which is associated1 with a number of health benefits including improved blood pressure, heart rate, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Let’s dive deeper and get into the particulars of this engaging, entertaining rower setup.
Footprint and Portability
For footprint and portability, the Strong Go rower earns 3 out of 5 stars. It’s not the heaviest rower on the market, but it’s also not the lightest, so we feel it deserves an average rating for this category.
The rower weighs 105 pounds, so it’s a little heavier than other lighter models, and has a footprint of 84 inches long by 27 inches wide by 48 inches tall. However, we found it wasn’t difficult for one person to move, and it can be stored upright without a stand or wall mount, which is a great feature. “The 83-inch vertical height in storage is also well-below the 8-foot standard ceiling2, which can be excellent when training in a finished basement or smaller space,” adds Ben.
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Durability and Construction
The Aviron Strong Go Rower has very durable construction and a high weight capacity relative to the product’s weight, so we give it 4 out of 5 stars for the category.
Even though the rower itself only weighs 105 pounds, it features a maximum user weight of 507 pounds; nearly five times the frame weight. The average rower we’ve tested weighs about 96 pounds and has a 353-pound weight capacity, so this Aviron impressed us on metrics alone.
The nylon belt feels durable, as well, and overall, we’re impressed with the build quality of this machine. If it weren’t for some plastic components, we’d give it a perfect rating here, but that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. We don’t have any serious concerns about durability, and the rower should last for years with proper care.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
This rower earns a strong 5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics. While most rowers don’t offer much in the way of adjustments aside from adjustable foot straps, the Aviron Strong Go Rower features four-way adjustable foot pads, a rotating handlebar, and a high seat that sits 20 inches above the floor, making it accessible for a wide range of body types.
It also feels good to use, too, according to product tester and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele.
“You can move your feet further or closer together with a simple knob, which is something I haven’t seen on other rowers,” she explained. “The seat also sits pretty high off the ground, so it’s not hard to get into, which is great if you struggle with mobility.”
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We also found the dual magnetic and air resistance to be quite smooth. It doesn’t have the same feel as something like an Ergatta Rower, but it’s significantly quieter than most air rowers we’ve tried. “I really like that resistance can be intensified to 100 pounds, too,” states Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC. “It’s quite the range, and certainly a challenge when powering through a gamified workout.”
Dynamic Programming
Aviron’s extensive library of workout options truly sets it apart, and it earns 5 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming.
Before we get into the guided workouts, let’s briefly touch on the screen itself. The original Aviron Strong Series Rower includes a 22-inch HD touchscreen, while the Strong Go allows you to use your own iPad. This saves money, but it’s worth pointing out that the largest iPad at the time of writing only has a 13-inch screen size.
We don’t mind this, but if you prefer larger screens, you may want to go with the original iteration.
The Aviron app provides plenty of activities to choose from, including:
- Games (individual or team video games)
- Coached workouts (great for beginners)
- Power Play (guided and community games with leaderboards)
- Scenic rowing (virtual rowing in beautiful locations around the world)
- Live competition s
- Guided programs
- Pros vs Joes
- Streaming (work out while you stream Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more)
Not only is there plenty to do, but the games are both fun and challenging, Lindsay says. “When I tried the games, I was actually pretty out of breath, and I was surprised how hard they continued to challenge me,” she adds. “It doesn’t feel like a typical workout; it’s actually really fun, and you get pretty involved and into it.”
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Many of these features are locked behind the $29 monthly subscription fee, but we feel it’s well worth it. You can still use the rower and track your workouts without an Aviron membership, but you won’t be able to enjoy any games or streaming entertainment.
Aviron Strong Go Rower vs Concept2 RowErg
The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we’ve tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There’s a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.
What our tester says:
“The build quality on this rower is tough…nothing about it feels cheap. Concept 2 is a commercial-grade rower, which means it was built with the intention that it would withstand the punishment of constant use at the gym or the CrossFit box with minimal maintenance required.”
Since we’ve already established comparisons between the original Aviron Strong Rower and the Aviron Strong Go, let’s take this section, instead, to pit the Strong Go against the Concept2 RowErg, one of the most well-known rowers ever made.
We’ll start with the key differences. The Aviron Strong Go has a shorter rail length and uses a dual air and magnetic resistance system, whereas the Concept2 is an air rower outright. Both have similar weight capacities, but the Concept2 is much lighter at 57 pounds (58 pounds with the available tall leg attachments).
Additionally, the Aviron Strong Go is primarily built for virtual classes with plenty of options to choose from (as long as you have an iPad). On the other hand, the RowErg is more data-driven with a much smaller PM5 monitor. It gets the job done, but it’s by no means an immersive training experience.
Either rowing machine can do a fine job at helping you reach your fitness goals, but they’re best suited for different users. If you’re a CrossFit or HYROX athlete, or compete with a rower that’s similar to the Concept2, you’ll probably want to choose that silhouette for your home gym setup. The Concept2 is also cheaper at $990, making it a great choice for budget-minded athletes.
However, if you’re simply rowing at home and prefer a cardio machine that’s quieter and packed with virtual gamification features, streaming services, and trainer-led workouts, the Aviron may be the better choice.
For more, be sure to check out our comparison table below and read our in-depth Concept2 RowErg review.
| Aviron Strong Go Rower | Concept2 RowErg | |
| Price | $1,599 | $990 |
| Footprint | 84” L x 27” W x 48” H | 96″ L x 24″ W x 14″ H |
| Seat Height | 20” | 14” (standard legs), 20” (tall legs) |
| Weight | 105 lbs | 57 lbs (standard legs), 58 lbs (tall legs) |
| Weight Capacity | 507 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Frame | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Programming | Aviron Active programming | Basic workouts via the PM5 performance monitor |
| Display | Bring your own iOS device | PM5 Performance Monitor |
| Resistance | Dual air and magnetic flywheel | Air resistance |
| Resistance Levels | 16 | 10 |
| Warranty | 20-year limited warranty | 5-year frame, 2-year parts |
Customer Experience
If you order directly from Aviron, you shouldn’t have any issues with customer support. Customer support is available via phone, email, or live chat, and Aviron offers a generous return policy.
If this is your first Aviron purchase, you’ll have 30 days to try it at home. If you’re not satisfied, you can return it free of charge. If it’s not your first order, however, you’ll be charged a 25% restocking fee.
Ordering from Aviron is also recommended given the brand’s impressive 20-year limited warranty. According to the policy, “Aviron will replace or repair any Aviron Product found to be defective in material or workmanship for 20 years from the date of shipment. This applies to the Impact Series, Strong Series, Tough Series, Victory and Fit Bike Products by Aviron, contingent upon consistent and current fee payments of the initial membership and the equipment is purchased directly through our website.” Accordingly, we rate the warranty at 5 out of 5.
Ordering and Assembling the Aviron Strong Go Rower
The ordering experience is smooth and easy, and Aviron provides plenty of options. You can finance your order through Affirm, pay with eligible FSA or HSA funds, and choose from multiple packages that add accessories such as the Cloud seat, a lumbar support pad, upgraded handlebars with built-in control buttons, and more.
Shipping is free within the contiguous United States, though you’ll need to pay for shipping to Alaska or Hawaii.
The delivery and setup are straightforward, too, and earned 4 out of 5 stars. The product isn’t too heavy, the required tools are included, and Aviron has detailed video instructions available on YouTube.
Customer Reviews
The customer reviews of this rower are extremely high, averaging 4.9 out of 5 based on 688 testimonies at the time of writing.
A few four-star reviews mention small technical issues, such as the lack of Garmin syncing, but most users seem very happy, especially with the interactive games.
Final Verdict of Our Aviron Strong Go Rower Review
If you’re looking for a rower that’s high-quality, built to last, and fun to use, the Aviron Strong Go Rower can be an excellent piece of equipment that’s well worth considering. Yes, you’ll need to have your own iPad, but as long as you’re okay with the smaller screen, we think the $1,599 price tag is justified.
Ben Emminger, CNC, CSNC, adds, “I appreciate the 507-pound weight capacity and the durable drivetrain. If you’re okay with using your own streaming device, this is a great starter rowing machine.”
Competitive rowers, CrossFit athletes, or HYROX participants may prefer a more traditional rower, but for everyone else, this is well worth considering.
- The Aviron Strong Go Rower is nearly identical to the original Aviron Strong Series rower, but the 22-inch HD screen has been replaced with a tablet holder that only works with iPads.
- It has a surprisingly high weight capacity (507 lbs) for such a light frame (105 lbs).
- If you struggle with mobility or find rowers uncomfortable, this rower has a higher-than-average 20-inch seat height and multiple adjustment points for additional comfort.
Aviron Strong Go Rower
The Aviron Strong Go Rower is a strong, durable rowing machine that offers dual air and magnetic resistance, which means you’ll have tons of adjustments and customizations. To use the Aviron app, you’ll need your own device but following along makes workouts more fun and engaging.
Product Brand: Aviron
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 1,599.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.1
Aviron Strong Go Rower Review: FAQs
Is an Aviron rowing machine worth the cost?
Yes, in our opinion. The Aviron Strong Go Rower is not the cheapest rower with a listed MSRP of $1,599, but it’s very durable and has some of the best virtual courses, scenic rides, and gamified experience of any rower we’ve tested.
Can I use an Aviron rower without a subscription?
Yes, an Aviron rowing machine can be used without a dedicated membership, but the training experience will be different. Without an Aviron membership, you can still create user profiles, view live metrics, earn badges, level up, add and follow friends, track workout history, and a few other features, but you can’t stream any entertainment services or participate in Aviron’s virtual games.
Can you get in shape from rowing?
Absolutely! Rowing is a great full-body workout that improves both strength and cardiovascular fitness, making it a great choice to improve your fitness levels.
References
- Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
- Rybczynski, W. (n.d.). Ceiling Heights in Homes and Offices. https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/working-papers/ceiling-heights-in-homes-and-offices/
