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When it comes to conditioning equipment, you can always count on Concept2 to deliver. From the fully immersive Myrow to the uber-popular RowErg, the company has earned high marks from the Garage Gym Reviews team and plenty of support from the home gym community.
However, Concept2’s latest foray in the space is fundamentally different, shifting the focus from cardiovascular fitness to strength training. While the concept (pun intended) of a three-in-one strength training machine that operates solely on air resistance sounds intriguing, we’ve all been disappointed by bold claims and “innovative” ideas before.
In this Concept2 StrengthErg Review, I’ll break down how this unique home gym machine works, who it’s best for, how much it costs, and more. Most importantly, you’ll get direct insight from our founder, Coop Mitchell, on what it’s like to train with the StrengthErg—and whether it’s worth its hefty price tag.
We Pressed, Pulled, and Pushed the StrengthErg Through Its Paces
The GGR team includes CPTs, certified nutrition coaches, CrossFit enthusiasts, and an Olympian weightlifter. We appreciate a balanced approach to health and fitness, meaning we value cardio workouts and strength-based sessions. So, whether we’re searching for the best adjustable dumbbells or the best budget treadmills, we put just as much effort into testing as we do training.
To evaluate the Concept2 StrengthErg, we used our fitness equipment testing methodology to grade critical factors using a 1-5 scoring system. While most of the company’s other products can be easily categorized (ie. rower, exercise bike), the StrengthErg is unique in that it’s not a smart home gym product nor is it a traditional cable machine or dedicated leg press. Ultimately, between our research and Coop’s testing experience, we assessed the following criteria:
- Construction and Durability
- Footprint
- Versatility
- Stability
- Accessories
- Price and Value
- Customer Experience
- Customer Reviews
RELATED: NordicTrack Rower vs Concept2
Concept2 StrengthErg
Air‑Resistance
Uses Concept2’s signature tech for scalable, joint‑friendly strength work
Concentric‑Only
Ideal for rehab and high-frequency training
Data Tracking
Supports PM5 monitor or ErgData app for rep‑by‑rep performance metrics
Durable Build
Tested to withstand over 1,500 lb force in a compact 90 lb frame
Strength & Rehab Use
Concentric‑only design suits recovery routines
Space‑Limited People
61″ × 26″ footprint fits small gyms
Tech‑Focused Trainee
App/monitor data tracking for performance insights
Durability Seekers
Built for high force and long-term use
Pros
Cons
Dimensions
61″ L × 26″ W (with pushbar)
Max User Weight
350 lb (160 kg)
Power Setup
Air‑resistance; PM5 or ErgData connectivity
The StrengthErg brings Concept2’s rugged air-resistance innovation to strength training—offering a safe, plate-free full-body option with precision data tracking. Best suited for users prioritizing concentric performance, durability, and compact space. Note the lack of eccentric resistance and mid-range price may limit appeal for some lifters.
A Quick Look at the Concept2 StrengthErg
Founded in 1976 by the rowing duo of Dick and Pete Dreissigacker, Concept2 manufactures rowing equipment, as well as other strength and cardio machines. Thanks in large part to its relationship with CrossFit, the company’s RowErg (formerly known as the Model D and Model E) is the most popular rowing machine on the market.
Having released a ski ergometer in 2009 (check out our full Concept2 SkiErg review) and the BikeErg in 2017, Concept2 unveiled a new design in 2024: the StrengthErg. Built similarly to the Concept2 DYNO (sold between 2001-07), this three-in-one machine allows you to perform the leg press, chest press, and seated row using air resistance. Capable of resisting more than 1,500 pounds of force, the StrengthErg comes with a two-year monitor warranty and five-year frame warranty.
RELATED: Concept2 BikeErg Review
Before You Buy
- The Concept2 StrengthErg is available in two versions: with a performance monitor or without. The PM5-equipped version costs $1,500, while the no-monitor version costs $1,350.
- This machine weighs 90 pounds, measures 61 inches long by 26 inches wide, and has caster wheels that allow you to easily move it around your home gym.
- Concept2 only ships this product within the United States. Shipping costs vary by location, with the lower 48 states checking in at a flat rate of $105. Alaska and Hawaii residents must pay $355 for shipping fees.
- Although this machine allows you to perform three exercises (leg press, seated row, and chest press), be aware that it only trains the concentric phase. The eccentric, or lengthening phase, is an important part of the muscle-building process that you won’t be able to work on with the StrengthErg.
RELATED: Concentric vs Eccentric
Concept2 StrengthERG Video Review
Is the Concept2 StrengthERG Worth It?
At $1,500 for the monitor version or $1,350 for the no-monitor model, the StrengthErg certainly isn’t cheap. That said, you essentially get three machines in one—albeit with some limitations. The inability to perform eccentric training is the biggest drawback, as the muscle-lengthening phase has been shown to be superior to concentric training for preserving health and overall function in older adults1. Plus, bodybuilders and #gymrats understand that a balance of eccentric and concentric training is critical to a well-rounded physique.
Still, this piece of equipment can deliver an effective full-body strength and conditioning workout without needing to change weight plates or grab different dumbbells. Whether you use the PM5 or your own device, you can track real-time metrics like heart rate, force, reps, time under tension, and more with the ErgData app—a great feature for accountability. Overall, this hybrid strength machine is a worthwhile investment, especially if you’re a beginner, older adult, or someone who doesn’t want to spend the money on separate pieces of equipment.
Great for:
- Home gym owners seeking a compact, multifunctional strength training solution
- Older adults who want a low-impact form of strength training
- Rehabilitation or those working their way back from injury
- Those who prefer quick, high-effort intervals over long steady-state sessions
- Concept2 fans who are already familiar with the feel of the flywheel and using the PM5 monitor
Not recommended for:
- Intermediate or advanced lifters who want full resistance training, as the StrengthErg provides no eccentric loading
- Anyone who thinks this will replace barbells, dumbbells, or other forms of free weight training
- Athletes who need to work on lower-body pulling movements (aka hamstring training)
- People who want high-end finishes and premium aesthetics, as the vinyl stickers and basic padding don’t give the StrengthErg a polished look
Concept2 StrengthERG Specs
| Price | $1,500 (with performance monitor), $1,350 (without performance monitor) |
| Footprint | 61” L x 26” W x 48” H |
| Materials | Aluminum |
| Weight | 90 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 350 lbs |
| Display | Optional PM5 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Warranty | 5-year frame warranty2-year monitor warranty |
Using the Concept2 StrengthERG
Our founder and resident gear guru, Coop Mitchell, has tested plenty of Concept2 products over the last decade. Considering the company hadn’t made much of a splash in recent years, he was excited to see if the StrengthErg lived up to the hype. Let’s dive into Coop’s experience with this innovative product and find out if the juice was worth the squeeze.
Construction and Durability
Weighing 90 pounds and measuring 61 inches long and 26 inches wide, the StrengthErg is made of mostly aluminum. This is on par for a brand that’s built a reputation for producing durable, high-quality equipment.
“A lot of companies in the strength world rarely use aluminum,” Coop says. “It’s softer than what you’d get with normal steel, but it’s also very lightweight.”
That said, there are quite a few plastic parts. Coop notes that there’s plastic on the flywheel and on the wheel covers. In addition, many of the components bear resemblance to ones used on other Concept2 machines.
“The foot holders are the same thing you see on the rower, just without the strap because you’re not doing any pulling with the hamstrings,” Coop says. “Also the guide rail is very similar to what we see on their other machines.”
Meanwhile, the back pad uses the same polyurethane that Concept2 uses on their seats. According to Coop, it feels “pretty comfortable” and “provides a solid base from which to press from.”
The seat pad is a molded plastic with a foam pad on top. Coop also found it comfortable and felt secure during his workout.
Although the machine looks and feels solid and even includes knurled handles, there are a few design callouts worth mentioning. First, Coop couldn’t get over the somewhat-unpolished look of so many stickers.
“C2 does use stickers on their rower and their skier but on the rower the down tube has the logo painted, so the stickers do truthfully make it feel cheap,” he explains. “Hopefully that’s just a short-term thing and they will, with enough volume, make better options.”
In addition, Coop wishes there was an adjustable chest pad for the row movement. As he points out in his video review, Concept2 released the StrengthErg on the heels of Rogue releasing the Echo Rower, so there’s certainly room for improvement in the future. Overall, we rate the construction and durability a 4 out of 5.
Versatility
This is where the StrengthErg stands out from other Concept2 products. Although you’re limited to only concentric training, the fact you can perform a full-body workout on this machine should make it appealing to space-conscious home gym owners.
First, the leg press functions well even though it uses air resistance rather than a weight stack or weight plates. You can change the resistance by adjusting the damper settings on the flywheel, which allows more or less air to enter the chamber.
“The leg press allows for full range of motion and would for someone even much taller than me,” says Coop. “But I will say this is going to be a quad-dominant exercise on the press.”
One callout about the leg press portion is the wooden platform.
“It feels a little bit off with the other materials since it’s a thick plywood that’s painted,” Coop says. “This may have been something they were trying to get out the door quick in response to the Rogue Echo.”
As for the StrengthErg’s upper-body capabilities? Coop notes that the row movement weight feels very heavy even at the lightest damper setting. Once the fly wheel gets going, it does get easier.
Meanwhile, like the leg press, the chest press movement allows for a great range of motion. You can adjust the carriage to get the right height for your body type, or even perform more of a decline press.
“Unfortunately, it doesn’t go high enough where it really feels like an incline—but just some options there,” Coop says. “If they wanted to improve that—the way I would say improve it is you could add something like rollers. But then it’s going to also add weight, complexity, and cost, too.”
Overall, we rate the versatility a 4 out of 5, docking a point because of the lack of eccentric training.
Features and ErgData App Integration
The final part we’ll touch upon are some of the features that should be familiar to Concept2 fans. The PM5 monitor provides real-time workout feedback, though this may not be necessary unless you have a lot of people or don’t mind the extra cost.
“I think most people could get away with just the ErgData,” says Coop. “And I would think that a lot of times, you probably wouldn’t even use it. You’re not using this in the same way you use a rower or SkiErg.”
Luckily, you can download the app and put your phone on the built-in device holder so you can automatically log your workouts. To take things a step further and become more connected with other fitness enthusiasts, you can use Concept2’s Online Logbook to track your sessions and share them with others. Plus, there are motivational challenges, a forum, and social media communities where you can get inspiration and assistance.
Concept2 StrengthERG vs Rogue Echo Rower
Display
4.7″ LCD console display wit customizable modes
Value
Our testers gave this rower a 5 out of 5 because it offers a ton of features and excellent performance for the price
Workout Programming
Around 10 preset programs
Heavy-Weight People
The wide, sturdy base can support up to 500 pounds
Those Tight on Space
Fold it up after your workout to save some room
CrossFitters
This is the official rower of CrossFit
Pros
Cons
Product Dimensions
99″ L x 26″ W x 16″ H
Warranty
5 years frame; 2 years moving parts and monitor
The Rogue Echo Rower is a durable, competition-grade rower that’s become the official rower of CrossFit and the CrossFit Games. It’s durable, portable, and easy to transport and store when not in use.
What our tester says:
“The Rogue Echo Rower uses a heavy, wide, thick base, but this makes it better for short-duration, high-intensity workouts. Stability won’t be an issue with this rower.”
It’s almost impossible to compare the StrengthErg to another product simply because it’s so unique. However, as Coop alludes to in his video review, Concept2 seems to have released this product as a response to Rogue’s Echo Rower.
Again, this isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison, but it’s worth pitting these two products against each other to see which new design fares better. Of course, you won’t be using them for the same purposes, as one is designed for strength & conditioning while the other is purely a cardio machine. However, it’s interesting to note that Rogue priced the Echo Rower a little cheaper than Concept2’s uber-popular RowErg ($990). Meanwhile, the StrengthErg is nearly double the price.
For more details on our experience, check out our full Rogue Echo Rower review.
| Concept2 StrengthERG | Rogue Echo Rower | |
| Price | $1,500 (with monitor)$1,350 (without monitor) | $895 |
| Footprint | 61” L x 26” W x 48” H | 99” x 26” (38” x 26” when folded) |
| Materials | Aluminum, plastic | Aluminum |
| Weight | 90 lbs | 76.2 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 350 lbs | 500 lbs |
| Display | Optional PM5 | 4.7” LCD Console Display with customizable modes – Bluetooth / ANT+ compatible. |
| Warranty | 5-year frame warranty, 2-year monitor warranty | 5-year frame, 2-year moving parts and monitor |
Customer Experience
Concept2 has always impressed us with their quick response times and overall customer service. You can get in touch with the company via phone, fax, e-mail, or by filling out a contact form on the Concept2 website. If you’re in the Vermont area, you can even reach out to schedule a factory tour.
Once you’ve received your product, you have 30 days to return it for a full refund. However, you will be responsible for return shipping costs. The StrengthErg comes with a five-year frame warranty and a two-year monitor warranty if you purchase the model with the PM5.
Ordering the Concept2 StrengthERG
You can order the Concept2 StrengthErg directly on the company website. First, you must select whether you want a performance monitor or the version without a performance monitor. Be aware that you can only purchase one StrengthErg per order. On the plus side, this item is HSA/FSA eligible.
While some companies offer free shipping, Concept2 does not. Shipping to the lower 48 states costs $105 via UPS/FedEx Ground. If you need the StrengthErg delivered to Alaska or Hawaii, you will have to pay $355. The machine will arrive in two boxes, along with a device holder, user manual, and tools and illustrated assembly instructions.
Customer Reviews
As a product that just hit the market in 2025, there are no reviews for the Concept2 StrengthERG at the time of this writing. However, based on the company’s track record and our in-depth testing process, we expect users to give positive feedback about the machine’s build quality and functionality. On the other hand, we also expect users to agree with Coop’s callout about the lack of eccentric training capabilities.
Final Verdict of Our Concept2 StrengthERG Review
Is the StrengthErg suddenly going to render your squat rack, barbell, and free weights useless? Absolutely not. While this multifunctional machine empowers you to perform three key exercises, it has clear limitations that leave you wondering whether it’s sufficient for serious lifters. Overall, the StrengthErg is an interesting concept that probably needs some refinement before we’ll call it a true home gym equipment staple.
Full Rating
Concept2 StrengthERG
The StrengthErg brings Concept2’s rugged air-resistance innovation to strength training—offering a safe, plate-free full-body option with precision data tracking. Best suited for users prioritizing concentric performance, durability, and compact space. Note the lack of eccentric resistance and mid-range price may limit appeal for some lifters.
Product Brand: Concept2
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 1500
Product In-Stock: InStock
Concept2 StrengthERG Review: FAQs
What is the Concept2 StrengthErg?
The Concept2 StrengthErg is a compact, multifunctional strength training machine that allows you to perform the chest press, seated row, and leg press using air resistance.
Which Concept2 rower model is the best?
Based on our experience, the Concept2 RowErg is the company’s best rowing machine. You can read more about it in our full review.
What does the StrengthErg show on the monitor and in ErgData?
If you have the StrengthErg with the PM5 monitor, you will be able to see real-time metrics such as work rate, heart rate, reps, and more. ErgData shows similar metrics, including drive speed, drive length, time under tension and more.
References
- Čretnik, K., Pleša, J., Kozinc, Ž., Löfler, S., & Šarabon, N. (2022). The Effect of Eccentric vs. Traditional Resistance Exercise on Muscle Strength, Body Composition, and Functional Performance in Older Adults: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2022.873718
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