Portugal Is Back: Introducing New Workouts (and an Upcoming Challenge!)

There’s more to explore in Portugal. 

Starting Aug. 17, we’re heading back to Avis for a second drop of workouts filmed on some of the most celebrated rowing waters in the world. New rows will continue to arrive through September—with a new and exciting challenge still to come.

Row where Olympians train

Tucked into the rolling countryside of Portugal’s Alentejo region, Avis has been drawing rowers to the Maranhão Reservoir for decades. Rowing here dates back to the 1970s, when its long stretches of calm water began attracting crews looking for an ideal place to train.

The reservoir branches into three expansive stretches of water, giving rowers miles of open space to train against a peaceful rural backdrop. That natural training ground eventually inspired former Portuguese national-team rower Luis Ahrens to help create the Avizaqcua Training Centre on its shores—a facility designed specifically around the needs of rowers. Since opening in 2009, the center has welcomed Olympians and national teams from around the world preparing for major international competition.

“We designed these workouts at an elite training center in Portugal to make you stronger, faster, and ready to attack every meter,” Mac said. “You’ll get a taste of how the pros train, with rows designed to help you see what you’re capable of.” 

It’s the combination of rowing history, world-class water, and striking natural surroundings that makes Avis such a special place to experience the sport—and the backdrop for our newest workouts featuring Mac, James, Dani, Buffy, Mike, and Aisyah. 

Your Portugal itinerary

New Portugal workouts begin dropping Aug. 17, with more arriving throughout September. Complete any three Portugal workouts—including workouts from our first Portugal drop—to earn the Portugal badge.

“These sessions bring a taste of high-performance training to everyone, regardless of your rowing experience,” Buffy said. “Beginner, experienced, or anywhere in between, these are fun workouts!”

And there’s more on the horizon! Later this month, we’ll introduce a new way to put your training to the test—one that will challenge you to set a benchmark, put in the work, and see what you’re capable of.

For now, check out our Portugal collection on Aug. 17—and stay tuned for what's next.