Aviron’s $2,499 gamified treadmill will keep you on your toes

 Aviron's home fitness equipment is built on a simple idea: most people dislike working out, but many enjoy playing video games. By blending the two, Aviron transforms exercise into an engaging, competitive experience that makes staying active more enjoyable.

Similar to how Nintendo's Wii and VR games like Beat Saber revolutionized entertainment, Aviron brings the excitement of video games to fitness. Founded in 2018, the Toronto-based startup gained traction in 2022 with the launch of its gamified rowing machine. The pandemic, with widespread gym closures, created the perfect environment for connected fitness solutions, and Aviron capitalized on this demand.

Rowing's natural rhythm of speeding up and slowing down aligns seamlessly with gamification, making it a logical starting point. With its software platform established, Aviron expanded its product line, introducing a connected bike in August 2024, followed by smart dumbbells and the Victory Treadmill later that year.

In a market crowded with Peloton and NordicTrack competitors, Aviron distinguishes itself by prioritizing gaming over instructor-led classes. While Peloton built its brand through charismatic instructors and live classes, Aviron focuses on immersive, interactive experiences. This gaming-centric approach extends to the Victory Treadmill, leveraging the robust software ecosystem developed for its rowing machine and bike.

The Victory Treadmill adapts gameplay to walking, running speed, and incline. While some games feel less intuitive on a treadmill compared to rowing, Aviron addresses this challenge with joystick-like controllers that allow users to adjust speed and incline dynamically. This design encourages active engagement with the machine, rather than simply inputting a speed and letting it run.

Beyond gaming, the Victory Treadmill offers diverse entertainment options on its 22-inch touchscreen. Users can stream content from major platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Spotify. Additionally, Aviron provides scenic virtual routes and a growing library of fitness classes. While the company hasn't invested as heavily in instructor-led content as competitors, these classes serve as a complementary feature rather than the primary focus.

The connected fitness landscape has evolved significantly since Aviron's initial rower launch. Companies like Peloton faced financial challenges when post-pandemic enthusiasm waned, yet competition remains fierce—especially in established categories like treadmills.

Priced at $2,499, the Victory Treadmill offers a mid-range option between $5,000 high-end models and budget-friendly $200 foldable units. While it may not match the industrial-grade machines found in gyms, the Victory delivers solid build quality and performance. It features responsive controls, a belt speed of up to 12.5 mph, and a low-to-the-ground profile for added stability.

With its unique blend of gaming and fitness, combined with extensive entertainment options, the Victory Treadmill is designed to keep users engaged—and unlikely to become an expensive clothes rack any time soon.