Ergatta Rower Review: A Game-Changing Fitness Experience
INTRODUCTION:
A month after trying the Hydrow, I had the opportunity to test the Ergatta. Here’s my experience, which I hope will help you decide if this rower is worth your investment.
If you’re someone who usually rushes to finish on the Concept2 at the gym to move on to what you consider "proper" equipment, the Ergatta might change your mind. For too long, rowing machines have lagged in adopting new technologies, but the Ergatta brings a fresh perspective to the market.
The Hydrow was the first 'connected' rowing machine, but the Ergatta offers a unique and imaginative approach. For those unfamiliar with 'connected' fitness equipment, think of Peloton but for rowing — without the overbearing instructors. Let's dive into the details of the Ergatta.
If you’re someone who usually rushes to finish on the Concept2 at the gym to move on to what you consider "proper" equipment, the Ergatta might change your mind. For too long, rowing machines have lagged in adopting new technologies, but the Ergatta brings a fresh perspective to the market.
The Hydrow was the first 'connected' rowing machine, but the Ergatta offers a unique and imaginative approach. For those unfamiliar with 'connected' fitness equipment, think of Peloton but for rowing — without the overbearing instructors. Let's dive into the details of the Ergatta.
ERGATTA ROWER
9.5
LISTEN ON THE GO - Ergatta Audio Review
DESIGN AND BUILD
The Ergatta is based on the popular WaterRower, made in Rhode Island, but with several enhancements. It features longer, more stylish rails made of beautiful Cherrywood, a collapsible arm with matching design elements, and a digital tablet. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and the smooth wooden rails are a tactile delight.
ASSEMBLY
Unlike other rowing machines that require tedious assembly, the Ergatta arrives pre-assembled for a $199 fee. It is delivered, installed, filled with water, and ready for use. Simply connect it to your Wi-Fi, set up your account, and enter details like weight, height, and rowing level. Multiple household members can set up their profiles under the same membership.
The Ergatta Rower
THE HARDWARE
The WaterRower's distinct water resistance system produces a satisfying swoosh sound. The rowing position is comfortable, though lower than the Hydrow or Concept2 Model E, which might be a consideration for those with knee issues. The foot pads are a bit close together, which might be uncomfortable for individuals with larger legs.
The dual rails provide a quiet and smooth action, and the padded handle offers a comfortable grip. The water resistance can be adjusted by adding or removing water, allowing for a customizable rowing experience.
The dual rails provide a quiet and smooth action, and the padded handle offers a comfortable grip. The water resistance can be adjusted by adding or removing water, allowing for a customizable rowing experience.
SOFTWARE PLATFORM
So this is where it gets really interesting. If it's not enough to have a beautiful, sleek rower beneath you, you'll certainly be impressed by the magic available at your fingertips - literally, it's a touchscreen! I've tried well over 100 rowing machines over the last 14 years, and this is the first time I've seen anything like the Ergatta workouts.
Examples of Ergatta Rower Workouts
The Ergatta truly stands out with its game-inspired workouts. Instead of conventional fitness classes, Ergatta offers a unique, competitive, and engaging experience. After a 1,000-meter row to calibrate your performance, the software personalizes future workouts to match your fitness level. This calibration can be repeated any time, and the machine auto-adjusts to keep workouts challenging.
For the fitness nerds (just like me!), you can find all the technical stuff on their website.
I was certainly spoiled for choice when it came to selecting a workout there are hundreds to choose from, most with a game-like set up. But note, monthly membership to get access to all the workouts is $29 a month (or $290 a year). For this you get access to all the workouts, and more are added every week. This ensures you'll never get fed up of using this rower. And this is vital as many give up a fitness regime due to boredom and lack of motivation.
The fact that you can do a different workout everyday, and then see your progress over time will keep you coming back for more. Achieving a personal best never fails to give your confidence a boost, while take another inch off your waist line and a few pounds off that bathroom scale.
And before I finish, one aspect of the Ergatta that impressed me, is their commitment to their members. During my time with the machine, I got access to their Facebook group, and what is obvious is how much they welcome feedback to improve the whole experience. And they actually respond fast, with updates coming almost every week. This, in my experience, is unique when it comes to rowing machines, or even digital fitness platforms.
For the fitness nerds (just like me!), you can find all the technical stuff on their website.
I was certainly spoiled for choice when it came to selecting a workout there are hundreds to choose from, most with a game-like set up. But note, monthly membership to get access to all the workouts is $29 a month (or $290 a year). For this you get access to all the workouts, and more are added every week. This ensures you'll never get fed up of using this rower. And this is vital as many give up a fitness regime due to boredom and lack of motivation.
The fact that you can do a different workout everyday, and then see your progress over time will keep you coming back for more. Achieving a personal best never fails to give your confidence a boost, while take another inch off your waist line and a few pounds off that bathroom scale.
And before I finish, one aspect of the Ergatta that impressed me, is their commitment to their members. During my time with the machine, I got access to their Facebook group, and what is obvious is how much they welcome feedback to improve the whole experience. And they actually respond fast, with updates coming almost every week. This, in my experience, is unique when it comes to rowing machines, or even digital fitness platforms.
UPDATE APRIL 2021: Ergatta have added scenic workouts. You can now row virtually in 20 locations including Thailand and Spain :0)
REVIEW SUMMARY
The Ergatta is a top-tier rowing machine with innovative features and a unique approach to fitness. Priced over $2,000, it might seem expensive, but its cutting-edge technology and engaging workouts offer excellent value for money. Ergatta continues to develop new workout games, automated rowing form analysis, social features, and live events. If you’re looking for a fresh and exciting way to stay fit, the Ergatta is a fantastic choice.
MY OVERALL SCORE
Not a difficult one to score - 95% I loved it, and I think you will too - but check out the alternatives to the Ergatta below.
CATEGORY |
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PROS |
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It's based on the WaterRower - so it's a quality machine |
Superb 17.3" color touchscreen monitor |
Imaginative workouts in the form of games - 100s of them! |
Personalized workouts |
Unlimited user profiles - great for the family |
Creative workout data display |
Suitable for users up to 500 lbs! |
Goal-based and Race programs |
The swoosh of the water as you row |
Stylish looks |
Bluetooth enabled |
Heart rate monitor compatible |
Fairly compact - stores away vertically |
Finance available - it ain't cheap |
CONS |
|---|
No personal trainer workouts as yet |
The price - you've gotta be serious about your fitness to spend this much.... |
... but you do get an amazing bit of kit! |
| Resistance Type | WATER | ||
| Max User Weight | 500 lbs | ||
| Machine Weight | 103 lbs | ||
| Length | 86 in | ||
| Height | 40 in | ||
| Width |
24
in
| Warranty |
5 years on frame / 3 years on parts |
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ALTERNATIVES
The Hydrow
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HYDROW ROWER9.5
The Hydrow is the closest rival to the Ergatta at time of writing (March 2021). It's platform has more 'real' river rows and trainer-led sessions. There are similarities, but the Hydrow is a electromagnetic resistance machine against Ergatta's water.
HYDROW REVIEW >>> |
The Heat Row
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LIFE FITNESS HEAT ROW9.6
The Life Fitness Heat Row is currently the top-priced rowing machine for the home market. It took this top brand a while to take the rower seriously (previously badged rowers were a huge disappointment), but boy do they make up for it with this one!
HEAT ROW REVIEW >>> |
Teeter Power10
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TEETER POWER109.0
Yes I know, it does look like a device more suited to torture, but in a way that's what it does - but in a nice way. The Teeter Power10 is unique amongst rowers because it requires effort to push and pull. Has some interesting features.
TEETER POWER10 REVIEW >>> |
Also see my ERGATTA vs HYDROW HEAD-TO-HEAD >>>
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