The Ergatta Rower blends sleek design with game-based workouts, offering a self-paced alternative to instructor-led fitness platforms
Ergatta takes a unique approach to most connected cardio, trading instructor-led classes and leaderboard competition for a self-paced, game-driven experience. Developed in collaboration with WaterRower, the machine pairs traditional water resistance with adaptive software designed to make workouts more interactive. Athletech News tested the Ergatta Rower to see if the gamified experience drives better results and a more enjoyable workout experience.
What It Is
The Ergatta Rower is a connected fitness machine priced at $2,499 (but currently $400 off), with a $29 monthly membership for access to its content. The rower is made of cherrywood and features a 17.3” touchscreen. It can be stored vertically without disassembly and is Bluetooth-enabled, requiring only a power source for the screen. Delivery was made very easy by the company’s logistics team, with a quick delivery and setup.
Instead of streaming classes, Ergatta organizes its content around interval workouts, scenic rows, and gamified challenges. At the center of the platform is a calibration system that adjusts each workout based on user output and performance, allowing the machine to scale difficulty over time. Users can also follow “Push Programs,” which are multi-week training plans designed around specific goals like endurance or speed.
Pros
The initial calibration workout established a performance baseline and set target zones for future rows. This feature seemed to help maintain a consistent level of challenge without the need for manual adjustment. The Push Programs offered a relatively straightforward structure for progression, with each completed workout unlocking the next.
The water-based resistance was smooth and relatively quiet. While the rowing experience felt familiar for those who have used a WaterRower before, the addition of metrics and pacing feedback added some depth. The machine itself is compact and unobtrusive, especially when stored upright, and feels stable during use.
From a usability perspective, the platform was easy to navigate once I became familiar with the layout. Metrics like split time, stroke rate, and Rowing Calibration Score were clearly displayed. Features like badge tracking and personal records provided some ongoing motivation without requiring social engagement or external coaching.
Cons
There were a few points where the platform’s design interrupted the experience. Tutorials for game modes repeatedly popped up, even when revisiting modes I’d used before, and couldn’t always be skipped. The lack of a clear “onboarding path” for new users made it harder to identify where to start or what program might be most useful based on my goals.
Reaching the touchscreen while seated also felt awkward at times, especially during breaks between intervals, although this is an issue common to most rowers. These are minor issues but noticeable during extended use.
In terms of content, while the breadth of workouts is strong, the absence of any live or instructor-led classes may not appeal to users who prefer a more guided or community-based experience.
Overall, Ergatta offers a calibrated, self-guided rowing experience that’s distinct from instructor-led platforms. Its design is understated, and its focus on game mechanics and adaptive difficulty will likely appeal to users who are more interested in measurable progress than in class-based motivation. The rower provides a functional and relatively seamless experience for those who want to row on their own terms and stay engaged during workouts.
