This Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower Review will show you why this is one of the best magnetic rowers on the market!
It’s smooth, quiet rowing motion allows one of the best rowing experiences.
Plus, it’s strong adjustable magnetic resistance allows for an effective total body workout.
Complete with a LCD monitor and 12 workout programs, it is difficult to find anything bad to say about this rower. Stamina even provides a FREE heart rate monitor, just to make sure you aren’t working out too hard!
However, users did have one complaint that caused some to knock a star off their ratings.
Check out the full Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower review below to learn about all the pros & cons.
Resistance Type
The Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is a magnetic resistance rowing machine.
The magnetic system is “monitor controlled” by moving a magnet closer or farther from the metal flywheel.
As a user pulls the rowing handle, the metal flywheel in the front housing begins to spin.
The closer the magnet is to the flywheel, the more resistance the users feels. The farther the magnetic is from the flywheel, the less resistance.
We call this type of resistance “adjustable” because a user has to press a button on the monitor to adjust the resistance up or down. No matter how fast or slow a user rows, they will feel the same resistance.
This is unlike air or water rowing machines where the faster you row, the more resistance you feel. To read more about the different resistance types check out my article on rower resistance types.
Resistance Benefits
The Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower is extremely quiet and is perfect for users who are not able to make a lot of noise. This is one of the major benefits of magnetic resistance.
So if you have young kids, live in an apartment, or like watching TV while exercising, the Stamina Avari Rower might be for you!
The resistance level is controlled from the center monitor. All a user has to do is push the up or down arrows to increase or decrease resistance while in the “catch” rowing position. This is when your knees are fully bent and closest to the flywheel (Read here about different rowing positions).
The Stamina Avari Rower also boasts a strong resistance system. People of all ages and fitness levels felt the resistance was suitable, even stronger users who workout daily. Some users mentioned they have not yet reached the highest resistance level.
People who want to row slowly, but still feel strong resistance, will also like the Stamina Avari. Basically a user can set the resistance to the highest level, row slowly, and still feel strong resistance. This is not possible on air or water rowers because you must keep a faster pace to feel higher resistance.
Users also commented the Stamina Avari Programmable Rower had a smooth, strong, even rowing stroke.
One user even said the resistance strength was similar to the Concept2 and only differed due to the air vs. magnetic changes.
The Avari Rower also has a slightly inclined rail, which helps a user get more of a leg workout when pushing off and returning to the “catch” position.
In other words, the back of the rail is slightly higher than the front, which means you have to push yourself up a slight incline.
Resistance Negatives
There were almost no negatives mentioned about the Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower resistance.
The only negatives pertain to magnetic rowing machines in general. These negatives include:
- Resistance does not closely mimic “on the water” rowing. You need air or water resistance for this feeling.
- Speed and distance calculations are not as accurate on magnetic rowers as they are on air and water rowing machines.
- Not as good for HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts.
If you are ok with these downsides, then you will love the Stamina Avari resistance!
Resistance Overall
The Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower has one of the best magnetic resistances on the market. It is strong, smooth, and super quiet!
There aren’t any other options in this price range that can boast this type of rating.
Monitor/Control Panel
The Avari Magnetic Rower features an InTouch® Fitness Monitor. The LCD screen is backlit so it can be easily read in any lighting, in any room.
The monitor tracks the following data:
- Time
- Count (Total Strokes)
- Distance
- Calories (Based on an avg. user)
- Strokes per Minute
- Pulse ( Using included heart rate monitor )
- Watts
All of the readouts are displayed on one main screen with only 5 buttons: Up Arrow, Down Arrow, Pulse Recovery, Stop/Start/ Reset, and Enter.
The arrow keys allow easy adjustment of time and resistance. Plus, they can be adjusted while in the middle of a workout while still strapped in. This is really a great benefit!
Monitor Programs
The monitor has 12 workout programs including 6 cardio profiles, 1 manual, 4 custom user programs, and 1 heart rate program.
It features 7 preset 30 minute programs that automatically adjust the magnetic tension, so you do not have to interrupt your workout. This is great for rowers who really want to mix things up!
Reading this sounds great, but what does it mean? Finding a description for each program (1-12) was tough but after some digging here is what I found:
- Program 1: Manual Program- user has full control over manually changing resistance levels.
- Program 2-7: Preset Programs- automatic resistance changing programs featuring Rolling, Valley, Fat Burn, Ramp, Mountain, and Intervals.
(Visual representation of Preset Programs)
- Program 8: Target Heart Rate Control Program- select a desired heart rate and the rower will automatically adjust the resistance to keep your heart rate at this level. Users must use the heart rate monitor for this program.
- Program 9-12: Custom User Programs- users can create their own workout routine and save it to the machine.
The monitor also has a feature called the Pulse Recovery System. This features tells users how fast they return to a resting heart rate after a workout by using the heart rate monitor. This is great for measuring cardiovascular endurance improvement as you use your rower more.
This function works great with the Target Heart Rate Control Program. Research has shown that working out in your target heart rate zone will improve fat burning and cardiovascular fitness better than working outside of your zone. More information about this can be found in the owner’s manual.
Monitor Overall
Overall, the Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower has an excellent monitor. For magnetic rowing machines it is considered advanced.
The only downside is magnetic rowing machines cannot accurately track power (watts), distance, and speed like air rowing machines. This is why air rowers are used by Olympic athletes and for setting world records. If this interests you, I recommend some air rowers in my final section.
If you aren’t concerned with comparing times to other rowers from around the world, the Stamina Avari monitor will be more than fine!
Build Quality
The Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower is a compact rower but user were extremely happy with the build quality. No user complained about the rower being weak in any areas and felt it was a very well-built rowing machine.
The Avari Rower is made from a steel frame and extruded aluminum beam. The pulley system is made from a very durable nylon strap that had no complaints of wearing or fraying.
Some users like the idea of a metal chain because it is more durable, but because the Stamina Avari is made to be quiet, the nylon strap works better. The nylon strap is also securely connected to the handle and had no signs of being a problem after extensive use.
The only complaint I saw on the build quality was a user mentioning that the seat squeaked while they were using the rower. After being told to make sure all the bolts were tightly screwed in, the problem went away. So keep in mind when assembling the machine you must screw each bolt in tightly.
Below is a video of the Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower in action.
Comfort
Comfort is key when rowing and the Stamina Avari gets an excellent grade in this category!
Users felt the Avari Magnetic Rower was very comfortable, smooth, and quiet throughout the entire rowing motion.
The footrests have very durable velcro straps and pivot nicely with a users natural movement. The padded handle is also very comfortable to the touch and prevents fatigue throughout the workout.
The only negative comment came from users who felt the molded seat began to hurt their butt after rowing for ~20 minutes. Due to the seat being hard, rowers with “less cushioning” found it to be sightly uncomfortable, while other rowers did not have a problem.
This is a common issue found on most rowing machines and there is an easy fix. If you are looking for cushion, I would recommend reading my article outlining the best rowing machine seat pads.
Otherwise, simply folding a towel and sitting on it while rowing seems to solve a majority of the complaints.
Overall, the Stamina Avari Magentic Rower is a comfortable rowing machine built for long rowing sessions.
Storage
The Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower is a fully foldable rowing machine.
This means the rower beam will fold up vertically by removing the locking bolt on the top of the rail, pulling out the spring knob, folding the rail up, locking back in the spring knob, and reinserting the locking bolt. As easy as pie!
The Avari Rower also comes with wheels on the front to allow easy mobility. After folding, the rower dimensions are 36″L x 20″W x 53.5″T.
The video above shows a great demonstration of how easy this machine can be stored and moved.
Capacity
The Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower has a very wide range for capacity, making it a great family rowing machine.
Users as tall as 6’4″ and as short as 5’0″ have used the rower with no issue.
If you are 6’4″ or taller I would recommend trying the rower out at a local retailer before purchasing to make sure you are able to perform a proper rowing stroke. Some people have longer legs than others, even though they may be the same height, so it is difficult to say if all 6’4″ rowers can use this machine.
The manufacturer weight limits is listed at 275 lbs and users close to this limit have used the machine with no problem. They commented that the machine still felt strong and would recommend it to people up to the limit.
Dimensions
- Assembled Dimensions:
- 81.0″ x 20.0″ x 24.5″ (L x W x H)
- Folded Dimensions:
- 36.0″ x 20.0″ x 53.5″ (L x W x H)
- Assembled Weight:
- 86.1 lbs
- Shipping Weight:
- 88 lbs
Just in case you need to know the height of the rail and incline, the front of the rail (near the flywheel) is about 8″- 9″ off the ground and the back of the rail is 13″.
Assembly
Many rowers are difficult to assemble and can require two people. Luckily, the Stamina Avari is very easy to put together and most owners can do it in under 30 minutes.
The rowing machine comes in 3 main pieces with very easy to follow instructions in the manual. All the necessary tools to complete the setup come with the rowing machine, which removes the hassle of having to find or buy tools.
Once the machine is assembled, all you have to do is plug in the AC power adapter and you are ready to row!
I called Stamina customer support to see how many prongs the plug had and it is a 2 prong plug, just in case your outlet doesn’t have a spot for a “ground”. This rower does not need any batteries.
Another great benefit about the Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower is it is made by Stamina. Stamina Products is a company with great customer service and stands behind their products.
Anytime a customer had a missing or broken part when their rower arrived, they were able to call customer service and have the issue resolved immediately. Just remember to tell them that it is Model # Stamina A350-700.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smooth, quiet rowing motion
- Strong resistance for magnetic rower
- 7 awesome preset programs
- Included heart rate monitor
- Easy to use/read fitness monitor
- Great customer service
- Easy to assemble
- Foldable storage capability
Cons:
- Uncomfortable seat
- Shorter warranty period
Consumer Reviews
Consumers were generally very happy with this rower and most gave it the highest ratings. There are really no pitfalls to this machine and it’s hard the find anything negative to say about it.
The only negative reviews had to do with the uncomfortable seat which can easily be fixed by buying a cushion or sitting on a towel.
Users loved the rowing machine was very quiet but still provided a strong resistance. The great customer service also puts buyers at ease knowing that if any problems occur they will be taken care of.
Check out more Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower reviews here.
Average Rating: 4.6
Warranty
The Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower offers a warranty of:
- Frame: 3-Years
- Parts: 90-Days
This is less than what is standard for a rower in this price range but all Stamina Rowers offer a shorter warranty period.
No user mentioned this deterred them in any way and no user complained of any parts breaking in an unreasonable amount of time (or even breaking at all!).
Also, make sure to fill out the product registration card or register your unit online after purchasing! Stamina says to reference Model#: A350-700A when calling.
Stamina Avari Magnetic Rower Price
The price of the Stamina Avari Rower can vary depending on where you purchase it but Amazon tends to have great prices on rowing machines.
They also offer a great return policy, free shipping on qualified orders, and excellent customer service. That combined with Stamina’s impeccable reputation cannot be beat!
Final Thoughts
The Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower is the best magnetic option in the $500-$999 price range.
It has excellent resistance, a smooth and quiet rowing stroke, and an advanced monitor. Plus, they include a free heart rate monitor!
If you think you may want an air rowing machine with ‘variable’ resistance, I recommend checking out the Concept2 Model D. It is the #1 rowing machine on the market with the best performance monitor. There are literally no negatives to this model besides the fact that air rowing machines make noise.
Check out the #1 bestselling rowing machine review here to learn more.
I hope you enjoyed this Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rower review! If you have any questions please leave them in the comment section below.
I love this machine. I just can’t figure out the difference between the strokes/min and count. If I keep my count at 35/min my stroke reflects noticeably less. Help.
Hi LT,
Glad to hear you’re enjoying your rowing machine!
The Strokes/Minute is calculated based on the rate of your last stroke so it can change every time you perform a stroke. If you perform two strokes very fast it may read 35 Strokes/Min then if you slow down a little it may read 20 Strokes/Min. If you kept your SPM at exactly 35 then your count should reflect 35 after 1 minute.
BTW 35 strokes per minute is a very high stroke rate! Most rowers only get that high when they are performing sprints!
Most people cannot maintain an even 35 SPM rate and will dip to 32, 30, 33, etc., so their count may only say 32 strokes after 1 minute.
Let me know if this makes sense or if this is not the scenario you were referring to. Hopefully we can sort it out :)
I just picked one of these up for a steal at Dick’s Sporting Goods. They had one left, their website price is $699 like everyone else, but I saw it stickered at 50% off ($349.97), so I grabbed an employee and we wheeled it up to checkout. It was the floor model, but no damage to the machine, it had all the accessories (heart monitor strap, owners manual, AC adapter, tools, etc). Then at checkout, apparently it was on clearance for another 50% off so I got it for $174.99.
Looking forward to starting to row at home, since my local Planet Fitness locations do not have rowers.
That is the best deal I have ever heard of! Nice one and enjoy!!
I bought his rower years ago (mine is branded JetStream), but the build and features are identical. I just started using it again after a hiatus and I am very happy with it, however, since it is a few years old, I can add a couple of minor cons:
– as dust collects in the bearings under the seat, the noise increases making it less silent than when it came out of the box. I’ve tried to clean the wheels, but it does not make a huge difference.
– during previous sessions where I would do Intervals (or a custom program) at max resistance for 30-45 mins, I recall that after a few weeks I felt it would be nice to be able to increase resistance. I read somewhere that putting a book under the back-stand would help, but I have still to try it.
So, as a starter rower this is really great, but I have found that I would like to have more features, like f.ex. being able to race against myself or send stats to an app. Do you have any suggestions?
PS. I never found the seat uncomfortable and during my best periods I’ve easily done 60 min. sessions.
Hi Christian,
Thanks for the comments! Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to upgrade the monitor. There are some 3rd party rowing softwares but most have to sync with a Concept2.
The only other thing you can do is by a good fitness tracker but it will have many of the same features your monitor already has.
I’m buying a used one in good condition. Who will repair it, should that become necessary?
Hi Jennie – rowing machines are fairly easy to work on so any handy person can handle most installments. If you have any issues the first contact should be to Stamina Products Inc. customer service department. Enjoy!
I bought this rower a year ago. It’s silent and it’s awesome however… I’m looking into live/recorded rowing classes that i can stream at home and, less importantly but still desired, the ability to connect to my phone/an app that tracks my workouts.
Question… Are you aware of any live online class service that would work well with this machine?
Or should i be looking into getting a different rower?
Hi Mendy – check out my new post about different rowing machine apps!
Great article! I see around 14 apps for Concept2. For non Concept2 I don’t seem to see any apps with classes. Are these live classes really only compatible with Concept2 rowers?
Thank you so much. Awesome site!
Hi Mendy – for apps marked “Concept2” it usually means the classes are done on a C2 and a lot of the time the app syncs with the C2 monitor and tracks/stores the data. It’s very possible to use the app without a C2 and try to replicate/follow-along with the workouts. It’s definitely doable but might get some getting used to. Luckily, a lot of the apps have a free trial!
Hi Edwin,
Thanks for your online information and your very quick response after filling out your questionnaire . I will be purchasing the Stamina Avari and will s3nd you a follow up email once we receive it and have a chance 5o use it.
Thank again,
John & Sandy Foley
No problem at all! Glad you found something you like and we look forward to your feedback!
Hi!
I have the Avari machine and the distance between my feet is 12 inches. Other machines seem to have closer foot pedals, which seem to make for better form. I am puzzled and not sure if it is causing knee discomfort from the distance apart. I am 5’1” tall. Please advise.
Thank you.
Dorothy
Hi Dorothy – thanks for reaching out! Everyone is different and it’s tough to say whether having your feet closer together would alleviate the knee pain. It could help but it could just be that the rowing motion is causing you the discomfort.
The only real way to know would be to test using a different rower with closer foot spacing. I have had some readers say they liked the wider spacing as rowers with close foot placement felt uncomfortable to them.