Ergatta Raises $30M to Fuel Gamified Rowing Revolution

The Evolving Landscape of Home Fitness

As global society transitions towards a renewed sense of normalcy, a significant question persists regarding the lasting impact on our daily routines. The fitness industry, in particular, faces considerable uncertainty. While connected home fitness machines have experienced substantial growth recently, the extent to which this trend will continue once gyms reopen remains to be seen.

A likely outcome is a period of stabilization. Nevertheless, investors continue to recognize considerable growth opportunities within this sector, extending beyond established brands such as Peloton, Mirror, and Tonal.

Ergatta Secures Series A Funding

Ergatta, a New York-based company, has recently announced a $30 million Series A funding round. This investment will be utilized to enhance the platform with new content, competitive elements, and social features.

This latest funding, spearheaded by Advance Venture Partners and including contributions from Greycroft, Fifth Wall, Gaingels, and Hans Tung (GGV), elevates the company’s total funding to $35 million. This figure incorporates a $5 million seed round completed in July of the previous year.

A Gamified Approach to Fitness

Ergatta’s core product is a rowing machine distinguished by its construction from cherry wood within the United States. This design choice provides a more aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to many other home workout devices.

The platform centers around gamified exercise content, mirroring strategies employed by companies like Aviron. This approach aims to motivate users through engaging challenges and rewards.

“We are creating a new paradigm for digital fitness content that leverages games and competition, rather than instructors,” stated co-founder and CEO Tom Aulet. “Our mission is to bring daily fitness within reach for our members by putting the individual in control and creating compelling, personalized programming that adapts to their fitness level, driving consistent fitness behavior over time.”

Features of the Ergatta Rower

The Ergatta Rower, priced at $2,200, incorporates a touchscreen display. This allows users to participate in competitions with other individuals and engage in workouts focused on achieving specific goals.

The machine offers a unique alternative to traditional instructor-led fitness programs, emphasizing user autonomy and personalized progress tracking.