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Alternatives to the rowing machine with water - What systems are available?

27 February 2025

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FROM Lars Wichert

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts, demanding both endurance and strength. Many Rowing machine rely on water resistance to simulate the real feeling of rowing on the water. However, not everyone favours this system. One Rowing machine without water has clear advantages, especially for home use. It is quieter, maintenance-free and often more compact than water-braked models.

While some rowers find the splashing of the water pleasant, it can be annoying for others - especially in flats or when training takes place in the early morning or late evening hours. Maintenance also plays a role. A Rowing machine with water must be cleaned regularly and treated with tablets to prevent algae formation. Models with magnetic or air resistance are much easier to maintain in this respect.

This article highlights the best alternatives to water brakes. Rowing machines and explains why modern resistance systems such as magnetic braking systems are an attractive choice.

What alternatives are there to the water rowing machine?

A Rowing machine does not necessarily have to be operated with water to enable realistic and effective training. There are various resistance systems, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. In addition to water, you can choose from magnetic, air and hydraulic resistors, which differ in the way they work and their training dynamics.

Magnetic resistor - Quiet, precise and maintenance-free

A Rowing machine with magnetic resistance works with electromagnetic brakes to generate the resistance. This technology enables precise control of the intensity, which can be set in stages or digitally, depending on the model. Magnetic resistance offers a particularly even load and is virtually silent, making it the ideal choice for training at home.

The magnetic resistance offers particular advantages for users who prefer structured training. The precise control allows targeted load adjustments that are suitable for technique training, interval training or strength endurance programmes. Another decisive advantage is that it is maintenance-free. While water rowing machines have to be cleaned regularly, the magnetic brake remains reliably functional for years. If the magnet is electronically controlled, the resistance can also change automatically during a pre-programmed unit. Furthermore, as with the AUGLETICS Eight Style programme for heart rate-based training, the resistance is adjusted so that you always row within your specified heart rate zone.

Air resistance - Dynamic, but loud

Air resistanceRowing machine generate the resistance via a flywheel with fan blades. The faster the athlete rows, the stronger the resistance becomes. This system enables a very natural training dynamic, but is associated with a significant noise level.

If you prefer intensive training and value a progressive increase in load, an air resistance system is a good choice. However, it should be noted that the loud air turbulence at high impact speeds can be annoying, especially in rented flats or when other people are in the immediate vicinity. You should also bear in mind that you will need to clean the appliance regularly. The fan becomes clogged with dust over time, so that the resistance is different with the same fan setting.

Hydraulic resistance - compact, but less realistic

Hydraulic Rowing machine use pistons with oil or air to generate resistance. They are generally cheaper and require less space, but do not offer the same realistic rudder feel as air or magnetic resistors.

A decisive disadvantage is the often uneven resistance. Jerky movements can occur during the rowing stroke, interrupting the natural flow of the movement. In addition, the resistance is often not as precisely adjustable as with other systems. Hydraulic Rowing machine are therefore more suitable for occasional users or people looking for a space-saving and cost-effective alternative. In addition, the geometry of the equipment often does not correspond to the optimal rowing technique.

Advantages of a rowing machine without water

Many rowing enthusiasts are of the opinion that only a water-braked device can offer a realistic rowing experience. But Rowing machine without water have clear advantages - especially for home use.

Lower volume

A major advantage of magnetic and hydraulic Rowing machines is the low noise level. While waterRowing machine generate a permanent background noise due to the splashing of the water, magneticRowing machine almost silently. This is particularly practical for people who live in a flat or want to work out late in the evening without disturbing their flatmates or neighbours.

Low maintenance and durable

A Rowing machine without water does not require regular cleaning or maintenance. While water-braked models have to be emptied occasionally and treated with maintenance tablets, and the fan of air-braked systems has to be kept free of dust, a magnetic resistor remains maintenance-free for years. There is also no risk of leaks or material wear inside the tank.

Compact design and easy storage

Many water-braked Rowing machine are bulky and heavy. Magnetic rowing machines like the AUGLETICS Eight Style on the other hand, are often foldable and therefore perfect for smaller spaces. The model can simply be folded up after training and stowed away to save space.

Advantages of a rowing machine without water

The various resistor systems each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

While water-braked devices simulate the feeling of rowing well, magnetic devices Rowing machine The latter perform better in terms of volume, maintenance and customisation.

Why the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the best alternative

The AUGLETICS Eight Style utilises a state-of-the-art magnetic braking system and offers some of the most advanced features in home rowing.

A particular highlight is the Virtual Coach, which analyses the technique in real time and gives the athlete immediate feedback. This function helps to avoid mistakes and develop a clean technique.

The large 15-inch touchscreen provides an interactive training experience. In addition to pre-installed workouts and technical analyses, the display also offers access to streaming services such as Netflix and YouTube, making training even more entertaining.

Another advantage is the space-saving design. Thanks to the foldable rail, the Rowing machine easy to stow away after training. The robust magnetic brake system also guarantees a long service life and consistently precise resistance control.

Rowing machine

AUGLETICS Eight Style

2.790,00 EUR

Conclusion: Which alternative is the best?

A Rowing machine without water is the ideal choice for anyone looking for quiet, maintenance-free and flexible training. While water rowing machines often require more maintenance and take up more space, modern alternatives such as magnetic resistance offer precise control options and virtually silent training.

Especially the AUGLETICS Eight Style impresses with its innovative technology, high-quality design and customisable settings. If you are looking for a long-term, versatile and quiet training solution, a high-quality magneticRowing machine the best choice.

About the author

Lars Wichert

Lars Wichert is a sports scientist and former competitive rower. He was part of the German national team for 13 years. He can look back on two participations in the Olympic Games and three world championship titles. After his rowing career, he worked as a coach and won the European Championships with his team. In his spare time, he now competes in triathlons, where he holds the world's best amateur time over the Ironman distance. Lars has the knowledge as a trainer, competitive athlete and sports scientist, so that everyone can feel addressed. His aim is to make exercise fun and to make it clear that a lot can be done for your health with little effort - because there is no better prevention than investing in your own health.

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