Aviron Rower vs Peloton Row: In-depth Comparison [2023]

It’s time for an Aviron vs Peloton Row showdown!

Indoor rowing has gained immense popularity as an effective full-body workout that targets multiple muscle groups while providing a great cardiovascular workout.

In this blog post, we compare two leading contenders in the high-end rowing machine market: the Aviron Rower vs Peloton Row.

Join us as we delve into the unique features of each rowing machine, evaluating their build quality, training programs, interactive elements, and user experience.

By the end of this Aviron vs Peloton Row comparison, you’ll have a clear understanding of which rower aligns best with your fitness goals and preferences.

So, let’s take a closer look at the Aviron Rower and Peloton Row.

Aviron vs Peloton

When it comes to at-home rowing machines, the Aviron Rower and the Peloton Row are two popular choices that offer unique features and experiences.

The Aviron Rower sets itself apart with its immersive and gamified approach to rowing workouts.

With a built-in touchscreen, it offers a connected fitness experience that displays dynamic workouts, challenges, and games to keep you engaged and motivated.

The rower simulates outdoor rowing scenarios, allowing you to compete against virtual opponents or challenge your personal best.

It also features a real-time leaderboard, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition among Aviron users.

Peloton is renowned for its extensive workout offerings, and the Peloton Row lives up to that reputation.

With a vast library of on-demand rowing classes and experienced instructors, Peloton provides a diverse range of workouts to suit different fitness levels and preferences.

Users can enjoy the flexibility of participating in live rowing classes or accessing on-demand workouts that fit their schedule.

The Peloton Row also offers personalized metrics and tracking, providing real-time feedback on metrics like pace, stroke rate, and calories burned, allowing you to monitor and analyze your performance.

In terms of interactive features, the Peloton Row excels with its personal pace targets and real-time Form Assist.

These features offer customized goals and technique feedback to help you optimize your rowing technique and set personalized goals.

The rower also provides a robust community and social features, fostering support and motivation among Peloton users.

If you are choosing between a Peloton Row and Aviron Rower then you are in a great position. They are both really good!

The stand-out feature of the Peloton Row is the real-time form assist feedback. This is really impressive and a great way to improve your technique.

As you would expect from Peloton, the workout classes are excellent.

Despite this, I think that for most people an Aviron Rower (either Strong or Impact) is the better choice.

Aviron offers a huge amount of versatility in how you exercise and a great range of entertainment options that will keep you coming back for more.

Importantly, Aviron is also loads cheaper! Your upfront costs for Aviron are about $1000 less than for Peloton Row.

That’s a fair chunk of savings from the off. But on top of that, you will be saving about a third of the subscription cost each month if you get the Aviron ($29 vs $44).

These savings are great, but even if the cost was the same I would pick Aviron over Peloton thanks to the varied entertainment options that make rowing yourself fit so enjoyable.

Aviron Rowers

The Aviron Rowers are a great addition to the expanding market of streaming rowing machines.

While Hydrow may have pioneered the concept, the success of Peloton and iFit has paved the way for more brands to offer their unique twists to the rowing experience.

Aviron have two rowing machines now, the Impact Series and Strong Series.

They are both brilliant. The Strong is a bit stronger (did you guess that?), doesn’t fold, and is generally a bit more robust than the slightly cheaper Impact (which does fold).

They both have access to the same features through the Aviron membership and have 22″ screens.

Aviron vs Peloton Comparison Table

	Aviron Impact Series	Aviron Strong Series	Peloton Row
Resistance	Magnetic/Air 16 resistance levels	Dual air and magnetic	Electronically controlled resistance
Frame	97 lb assembled weight 397 lb user weight limit	114lbs assembled weight 507 lbs max user weight	156 lb assembled weight 300 lb user weight limit
Folding	Yes	No	No
Warranty	10 year frame 1 year parts	10 year frame 1 year parts	12 Month limited warranty
Streaming Features	Loads of games Guided workouts Races Coaching programs Pros vs Joes Virtual destinations Entertainment apps	Loads of games Guided workouts Races Coaching programs Pros vs Joes Virtual destinations Entertainment apps	Instructor-led workouts Live and on-demand options Non-rowing workouts
Cost	~$1899 $29/month membership CHECK PRICE	~$2199 $29/month membership CHECK PRICE	~$3195 $44/month membership CHECK PRICE

Aviron has a particularly strong focus on enhancing your workout sessions in captivating ways through games, competitions, and other entertainment.

Their first rower, now known as the Impact Rower, gained popularity by offering users a variety of workout options.

With the freedom to choose between engaging games and traditional workout programs, fitness enthusiasts loved the Impact Rower.

Building on this success, Aviron has now introduced its latest model: the Strong Series Rower, affectionately known as the “Strong Rower.”

This new rower utilizes the same cutting-edge software as the Impact Rower but takes it a step further with a heavy-duty frame and other notable upgrades that promise an enhanced rowing experience. The Strong Rower is priced at $2299, a modest $300 increase compared to the Impact Rower.

Aviron Hardware

When evaluating a rower, it is crucial to consider its hardware, as performance plays a vital role in the overall experience.

Aviron rowers adopt a combination rowing system that blends magnetic and air resistance, creating a challenging force for you to work against.

This hybrid approach combines the advantages of both resistance types, ensuring a consistent baseline resistance regardless of rowing speed, thanks to the magnetic component.

When you increase your rowing pace, the air system kicks in, amplifying the resistance for a more intense workout.

The spinning fan does generate some noise, although not excessively, and the airflow is cleverly directed toward you, providing a very welcome self-powered cooling effect which is the perfect way to cool down while working out.

The Aviron Rower offers 16 magnetic resistance levels and does not have damper settings for the air fan.

Construction

The Aviron Strong Rower boasts a sturdy construction, with an assembled weight of 114 lb, indicating its durability.

It has a weight limit of 507 lb, accommodating users of all sizes and ensuring a secure and stable workout experience. The Impact is a bit lighter and can handle users up to 397 pounds.

Both Aviron rowers beat the Peloton Row when it comes to user capacity as the Peloton Row can only take users upto 300 lbs.

This is quite a low limit for this type of rowing machine, especially given that the Peloton rower itself weighs a whopping 156 pounds.

The Strong rower’s design takes into account the needs of a wide range of users, with comfortable rowing positions for individuals up to 6’8″.

The Peloton Row is not as well suited to very tall people, but it can be used by rowers upt 6’5″.

While the Strong Rower does not fold, it can be stored vertically, offering a space-saving solution.

The frame sits just 10″ above the ground, allowing for easy step-over access, while the seat is elevated to a height of 20″, providing enhanced convenience for getting on and off the machine.

The Strong Rower features a handlebar connected to a nylon belt, ensuring quiet operation during workouts.

The handlebar can rotate, accommodating natural wrist movement and enhancing the rowing experience.

One standout feature is the fully adjustable pedals, allowing customization of pedal length and distance between pedals, catering to users of all sizes.

Aviron Connected Features

As a streaming rower, the Aviron Rower requires a monthly subscription fee of $25 to unlock its full smart rower experience (this is a third less than the Peloton Row which costs $44).

While it is possible to use the rower without a membership, you won’t have access to the games or structured workouts which is kind of the whole point of this rower.

With a subscription, you gain access to eight distinct workout modes, including interactive video games, coached programs, streaming entertainment apps, scenic rows, power play, live competitions, guided programs, and Pros vs Joes, ensuring a variety of options to keep your workouts engaging and enjoyable.

The rower features a 22″ HD touchscreen console that rotates, providing convenient viewing even when you’re off the rower.

In terms of warranty, Aviron demonstrates its commitment to customer satisfaction by offering a 10-year frame warranty and a 1-year parts warranty.

This coverage surpasses other leading rowing machine brands and extends to cover commercial usage aswell.

The Aviron warranty is way better than the Peloton Row warranty. Peloton only offer a 12 month limited warranty whi, frankly, is not good enough for such an expensive peice of kit.

Aviron Workout Options

The Aviron Rowers are designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging rowing experience.

With its sturdy construction, dual-resistance system, adjustable features, and wide range of workout modes, it offers a compelling package for fitness enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the Strong Series Rower is its 22″ HD touchscreen console, which not only provides clear and vibrant visuals but also rotates for easier viewing.

This allows you to interact with the console comfortably, whether you’re on the rower or performing off-the-rower exercises. The rotating screen adds convenience and versatility to your workouts.

In terms of workout options, Aviron offers eight distinct modes to cater to various preferences and goals.

The interactive video games provide an immersive experience where your rowing speed and force influence the gameplay, making your workouts both entertaining and effective.

The coached programs, led by instructor Austen, guide you through tailored rowing and strengthening workouts, ensuring proper form and maximizing your training efficiency.

Streaming is another feature that sets the Aviron Rowers apart. You can access popular entertainment apps like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ directly from the console, allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows, movies, and music while working out.

These entertainment options cannot be accessed directly from a Peloton Row.

This integration of entertainment and exercise helps to keep you motivated and engaged during your rowing sessions.

For those seeking a more serene experience, the Strong Rower offers scenic rows that immerse you in picturesque virtual environments.

These calming and visually captivating settings provide a tranquil backdrop for your workouts, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.

To add a competitive element to your training, Aviron offers Power Play and Live Competition modes.

Power Play combines the thrill of games and guided workouts, allowing you to participate in races against friends and the computer.

It helps you focus on different aspects of your rowing technique while adding a sense of competition to your training.

In Live Competition mode, you can embrace the exhilaration of real-time races, challenging friends or aiming for the top spot on the leaderboard.

Aviron occasionally organizes community-wide live events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement among users.

The Aviron Rower’s workout modes also include guided programs and Pros vs Joes.

Guided workouts take you through a series of rowing and off-the-rower exercises tailored to your goals and fitness level, offering a comprehensive approach to training.

In Pros vs Joes, you can test your performance against pre-recorded competitions featuring elite athletes from various sports and disciplines.

This mode allows you to measure your abilities against some of the fittest individuals, including Olympic rowers, if you dare to take on the challenge.

To monitor your progress and track your performance, the Aviron Rower includes a range of built-in sensors and connectivity options.

The rower is equipped with a heart rate monitor that allows you to track your pulse during workouts and maintain your target heart rate zone.

The console also displays real-time data such as time, distance, strokes per minute, calories burned, and watts generated, providing comprehensive feedback on your performance.

The Aviron Rower integrates seamlessly with the Aviron app, available for iOS and Android devices.

The app allows you to sync your rowing data, access additional workouts, and participate in challenges and competitions with the Aviron community.

It serves as a hub for tracking your progress, setting goals, and staying motivated on your fitness journey.

Aviron Assembly and Storage

When it comes to assembly and storage, the Aviron Rower offers convenience and practicality.

The rower arrives partially assembled, reducing the setup time and effort required.

The Aviron Impact Rower features a folding design with transport wheels, allowing you to easily move and store the machine when not in use, making it suitable for home gyms with limited space.

The Aviron Strong has an upgraded lower rail and a sturdy non-folding frame that can be stored upright.

In terms of maintenance, the Aviron Rower is designed to be low maintenance and durable.

The rowing belt and other key components are built to withstand frequent use and provide a smooth and reliable rowing experience.

However, regular cleaning and periodic checks for any loose or worn parts are recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Aviron Final Thoughts

The Aviron Rowers offer a comprehensive and engaging rowing experience with sturdy construction, adjustable features, and versatile workout modes.

Whether you’re looking for interactive games, guided programs, competitive challenges, or serene scenic rows, this rower caters to a variety of preferences and goals.

With advanced features, connectivity options, and user-friendly design, both Aviron Rowers are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a dynamic and effective full-body workout at home.

The Peloton Row: Peloton’s First Rowing Machine

The Peloton Row is the latest addition to the lineup of fitness equipment from Peloton, a well-known brand famous for its exercise bikes and treadmills.

This rowing machine marks Peloton’s entry into the world of rowing.

In this section, we will delve into the specifications of the Peloton Row and see how it compares to the Aviron Rowers.

Peloton Row – Specifications and Features

The Peloton Rower boasts a large 23.8-inch touchscreen display, a signature feature seen in other Peloton equipment. This is a little bit bigger than the 22″ screen provided by Aviron.

The display is optimized for graphics and provides exercisers with a view of the community leaderboard and important rowing metrics such as distance, pace, stroke rate, and calories burned.

Users can stream on-demand rowing workouts and participate in live classes while keeping track of their performance.

Peloton Row Features: Enhancing Your Rowing Experience

The Peloton rowing machine, offers a wide array of features designed to enhance your rowing experience.

While it includes essential metrics tracking and an ergonomic molded seat, this high-end rowing machine goes above and beyond budget-friendly alternatives with its impressive feature set.

Let’s take a closer look at what the Peloton Row has to offer:

1. Pace Targets: Maximizing Workout Effectiveness

The Pace Targets feature provides personalized short-term goals within each workout, helping you optimize your performance.

Based on your performance history and technique, the rower can dynamically instruct you to slow down or speed up during your session.

This feature ensures that you maintain an ideal pace, pushing you to achieve your fitness goals efficiently.

2. Real-time Form Feedback: Perfecting Your Technique

When you first step onto the Peloton Row, the Form Assist feature guides you through a rowing form calibration using sensors in the handlebar and slide rail.

Throughout your workouts, Form Assist continually monitors your technique, providing real-time feedback.

If you deviate from proper form, your on-screen avatar will flash red, alerting you to make necessary adjustments.

This real-time form feedback helps you maintain correct rowing posture and ensures an effective and safe workout.

3. Live and On-Demand Rowing Classes: Expert Instruction

At the heart of the Peloton Row experience are the Peloton instructors and classes.

With the All-Access membership, you gain access to a wide range of rowing classes, expanding the existing categories.

These live and on-demand rowing classes provide expert instruction, motivation, and a sense of community, keeping you engaged and focused on your fitness journey.

It’s important to note that rowing classes are not available with a regular Peloton app membership.

4. Swiveling Display: Versatility in Workouts

The Peloton Row features a large 23.8-inch HD touchscreen display that swivels and tilts.

This flexibility allows you to participate in various non-rowing workouts while still following along on the screen.

Whether you’re engaging in off-rower exercises or exploring other fitness programs, the swiveling display ensures a seamless and immersive workout experience.

5. Heart Rate Monitoring: Tracking Your Intensity

By connecting a compatible heart rate monitor, you can track your heart rate during rowing workouts.

Monitoring your heart rate helps you gauge your exercise intensity, enabling you to optimize your training and monitor your progress over time.

This feature adds an extra layer of insight and customization to your rowing sessions.

Footprint and Portability: Compact Design

Although Peloton refers to the Row as “compact,” it’s important to note its approximate 8-foot-by-2-foot footprint.

While not particularly small-space friendly, you can purchase an upright anchor to vertically store the machine, saving horizontal space.

However, due to its weight of nearly 160 pounds, transportation may pose a challenge, even with front-mounted casters.

Durability and Construction: Sturdy and Reliable

The Peloton Row boasts a robust construction.

Weighing approximately 160 pounds and featuring an anodized and powder-coated frame, the rower is built to withstand rigorous use without durability concerns for its hardware and parts.

Well, you would hope so. Peloton only offer a 1 year warranty so maybe it’s not as durable as you would hope?

To be fair it does seem well built but it’s a shame not to have the piece of mind of a long warranty (like the 10 year warranty that Aviron provide).

The Ergonomics: Comfort and Support

When it comes to ergonomics, the Peloton Row is designed with your comfort and performance in mind. Here’s a closer look at its ergonomic features:

1. Molded and Cushioned Seat: The Peloton Row features a molded seat with ample cushioning to ensure a comfortable seating experience.

The ergonomic design helps reduce discomfort during extended rowing sessions, allowing you to focus on your workout without distractions.

The seat’s construction aims to provide optimal support for your body.

2. Curved Handlebar: The rower’s curved handlebar is strategically designed to mimic the grip and position of oars on a real row-boat.

This thoughtful design allows for a natural and ergonomic hand and wrist placement, promoting proper rowing technique and minimizing strain on your upper body.

3. Adjustable Foot Cradles: The foot cradles on the Peloton Row are adjustable to accommodate a wide range of foot sizes.

From women’s size 5 up to men’s size 13.5, the adjustable foot cradles ensure a secure and comfortable fit, allowing you to maintain proper foot positioning during your rowing workouts.

4. Height and Weight Capacity: The rower is suitable for users with varying heights and weights.

It supports individuals with heights ranging from 4 feet, 11 inches to 6 feet, 5 inches. The Peloton Row has a maximum user weight capacity of 300 pounds, ensuring stability and durability for users of different body types.

5. Screen Tilt for Optimal Viewing Angle: The Peloton Row’s screen offers both vertical and horizontal tilt functionality.

With 25 degrees of vertical tilt and 45 degrees of horizontal tilt, you can easily adjust the screen to find the perfect viewing angle.

This feature allows you to maintain a comfortable posture, preventing strain on your neck and avoiding elevated traps during your rowing sessions.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

The Peloton Row delivers a tech-heavy experience, aligning with the expectations of Peloton customers.

Here are some of the technology benefits and conveniences offered by the Peloton Row:

1. Versatile Touchscreen Display: The near-24-inch touchscreen display on the Peloton Row provides a versatile platform for a wide range of workouts.

Whether you prefer instructor-led HIIT rowing classes or on-the-mat bootcamp workouts, the display allows you to access and participate in virtually any type of workout you desire. Additionally, the screen swivels and tilts, providing flexibility in positioning.

2. High-Fidelity Audio and Connectivity: The Row features both rear- and front-facing speakers, delivering a high-fidelity audio experience during your workouts.

The rower also offers Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, allowing you to seamlessly connect your iPhone, Apple Watch, or tablet to the machine.

This connectivity enables you to integrate your preferred devices with the Peloton Row for enhanced workout customization.

3. Intra-Workout Metrics and Instructor Guidance: The Peloton Row provides real-time intra-workout metrics displayed on the screen.

These metrics include pace, stroke rate, calories burned, distance, and more, giving you valuable insights into your performance and progress.

You can follow along with the guidance of the Peloton Row instructors, who will lead you through workouts and help you optimize your rowing technique.

4. Personal Pace Targets and Real-Time Form Assist: The Peloton Row takes “smart gym equipment” to the next level with its personal pace targets and real-time Form Assist features.

By setting personalized pace targets, the rower helps you challenge yourself and achieve your fitness goals.

The real-time Form Assist continuously monitors your technique and provides feedback to improve your form. Peloton claims that complete beginners can master rowing in just 6 weeks.

Is the Peloton Row Worth It?

Considering the Peloton Row’s price tag, we find it difficult to justify the investment compared to Aviron.

Undeniably, the Peloton Row is a quality piece of fitness equipment, showcasing Peloton’s reputation for durable and comfortable hardware.

The rowing machine requires a Peloton All-Access membership to access its features, this costs $44 per month.

The specifications suggest that the Peloton Row is built to last, with an aluminum seat rail and a powder-coated frame that resist damage from dings and scratches. But you only get a 12 month warranty! Why?

However, the price point of over $3,000 raises eyebrows, especially when comparable rowing machines like the Concept2 RowErg can be purchased for around $1,000, and other smart rowers from Aviron are priced between $2,000 and $2,500.

Therefore, whether the Peloton Row is worth it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences, but for most people, there are better value options available.

Who is the Peloton Row Great For and Who Should Avoid It?

Great For:

• People who already have a Peloton All-Access membership
• Peloton enthusiasts
• Home gym owners with flexible budgets

Not Recommended For:

• Individuals on a budget
• CrossFitters (Concept2 RowErg is the preferred option for this group)
• Those planning to store the rower in a non-climate-controlled area (not ideal for tech-heavy machines)

Peloton Row vs Aviron: Final Thoughts

Alright, folks, it’s decision time! After some serious consideration, I have to say that the Aviron Rowers take the gold medal when compared to the Peloton Row. Why, you ask? Well, let me break it down for you.

First things first, Aviron makes rowing an absolute blast.

Seriously, it’s so much fun that you’ll actually want to hop on your rower every chance you get. And let’s be real, isn’t that the whole point? Who wants a fancy piece of exercise equipment gathering dust in the corner?

Now, don’t get me wrong, the Peloton Row is a decent option, but when you crunch the numbers, it just doesn’t justify the extra cost.

Aviron, on the other hand, gives you everything you need without breaking the bank. They’ve nailed the sweet spot of affordability and quality.

Aviron offers a whole smorgasbord of options that’ll keep you hooked. We’re talking games, training sessions with pro rowers, and even friendly competitions with other users.

And if you’re in the mood to relax while you row, guess what? You can stream your favorite shows on their crisp 22-inch display. It’s like having your own personal entertainment center right in front of you.

The bottom line is that Aviron gives you way more bang for your buck compared to Peloton.

It’s way cheaper upfront, plus, their monthly subscription is $15 less than Peloton’s.

Oh, and did I mention that Aviron throws in a 10 year warranty? Yeah, they’ve got your back for the long haul.

So, my friends, the verdict is in. I wholeheartedly recommend going for an Aviron Rower instead of the Peloton Row.

Trust me, you’ll enjoy the journey to a fitter you with Aviron by your side. It’s time to make your workouts exciting, affordable, and downright enjoyable.