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Rowing machine test: The most important comparison criteria for choosing the perfect model

14 November 2024

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FROM Flavio Holstein

Rowing machine test: The best tips and criteria for the perfect rowing machine for your home

A separate Rowing machine offers you the opportunity to do a comprehensive full-body workout whenever you want - without having to go to the gym, find a parking space or drive across town. Rowing machine are great because they work over 85 % of muscle, and they make home training easy and effective. But which machine is right for you? The choice of models and resistance systems can quickly become confusing. After all, there are many models on the market from companies such as AUGLETICS, Concept2, Waterrower, NordicTrack, Kettler, Peloton, Hydrow, etc. With this rowing machine test and an overview of the most important criteria, we will help you to make the perfect choice for your needs.

What should you look out for in a rowing machine test?

When buying a rowing machine, there are a few key points that you should consider to ensure that the machine meets your requirements and training goals. Here are the most important test criteria for rowing machines:

 
  • Resistance systemDifferent rowing machines work with different braking systems, which greatly influence the training experience. The most common systems are
    • Magnetic brakeParticularly quiet and durable, ideal for home use and for the late evening hours. One example is the AUGLETICS rowing machine
    • Water brakeSimulates the real rowing experience on the water, with a rippling sound when pulling. Many professionals find that it doesn't feel quite as realistic as air-braked devices, for example, and you can't adjust the resistance as flexibly. One of the best-known devices is the Waterrower.
    • Air brake: Usually offers a realistic rowing feel thanks to the wind-braked system. The Concept2 rowing machine in particular has established itself here and is also used by many professional rowers
    • Hydraulic brakeThis is often found on cheaper models, but offers less flexibility in training and often a less realistic rowing feel. A well-known device is the RowShaper.

Elderly man uses the Augletics rowing machine in a modern living room for a comfortable and efficient home workout

 

  • Noise levelIf you live in a block of flats or like to do your workout late at night, a quiet machine is important. Magnetically braked machines such as the AUGLETICS Eight Style are very quiet in operation and ideal for flats.
  • Size and stowabilityA compact and easily stowable model is practical if you don't have your own fitness room. Some rowing machines can be folded up and easily stowed away after training. Make sure that the machine fits your height so that you can stretch out fully.
  • Display and functionsA comprehensive display helps you to keep an eye on your progress. High-quality rowing machines offer options such as various training programmes, virtual routes, calorie consumption and heart rate measurement. The AUGLETICS Eight Style, for example, scores with a large touchscreen and various entertainment options, including YouTube and virtual tours.
  • Material and designA robust material ensures durability and an aesthetic design makes the appliance an eye-catcher in your home. With its elegant oak wood design, the AUGLETICS Eight Style offers a particularly high-quality and sustainable look.
  • Customisability and comfortAn individually adjustable seat, non-slip pedals and a comfortable grip are important criteria. Make sure that the machine is suitable for your height and body weight to ensure a safe and effective workout. Some devices require a power connection (including the AUGLETICS rowing machine), some do not need a power socket nearby.

Olympic medallist Britta Oppelt's comparison video: Which devices are available?

For a detailed overview of the differences between various rowing machines, you should watch the comparison video by Olympic silver medallist Britta Oppelt. Britta shows you various rowing machines and explains the advantages and disadvantages of the different braking systems - from magnetic brakes to water, air and hydraulic systems.
Among other things, Britta presents the AUGLETICS Eight Style, which is particularly quiet and compact thanks to the magnetic brake - ideal for home use. She also shows how the Eight Style compares to other models such as the Concept2 (air brake) or the Waterrower (water brake).

Britta clearly explains that the magnetic brake of the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the ideal solution if you are looking for a quiet and powerful rowing machine that is also suitable for strength-intensive training. The water and air brake systems, on the other hand, offer a particularly realistic rowing feel, but are louder and require more space.
 
This video provides you with a sound basis for making a decision and helps you to find the perfect rowing machine for you.

The test report from Fitzuhause.de: AUGLETICS Eight Style in detail

In the test of Fitzuhause.net has the AUGLETICS Eight Style performed particularly well. Freddi from Fitzuhause describes the machine as a "masterpiece" in home training. He emphasises that the machine is not only visually impressive, but also in terms of functionality - perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality rowing machine with state-of-the-art technology and an elegant look.

According to Freddi, the AUGLETICS Eight Style scores highly in these areas:

  • Magnetic eddy current brakeThe electric eddy current brake is not only quiet and maintenance-free, but also offers a wide range of resistance levels that can be adjusted from gentle training to intensive strength training. This flexible resistance setting sets the AUGLETICS Eight Style apart from many other machines.
  • High-quality materialsThe use of oak wood and brushed aluminium gives the machine a luxurious look. The design is not only stylish, but also extremely robust - ideal if the rowing machine is placed in the living room or another public area of the house.
  • Convenient and easy to stow awayThe AUGLETICS Eight Style can be quickly and easily folded up and stowed away after training. Freddi emphasises that the compact dimensions (only 1.81 m long and 45 cm wide) make the device ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Display and technologyThe integrated display is another highlight. The large touchscreen provides detailed information on the number of strokes, distance, calories burned and heart rate. Freddi describes the display as "a real digital centrepiece", which not only shows the basic values, but also offers various training programmes and apps. You can even use YouTube and other streaming services directly on the display.
  • Virtual coach and technical trainerAnother special feature of the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the integrated Virtual Coach, which helps you to improve your rowing technique and maintain a safe and effective posture. This coach is ideal for beginners in particular, as it automatically provides feedback and points out mistakes.

07 augletics foldable 1

Augletics rowing machine test: The Augletics Eight is a (price-intensive) masterpiece

Freddi from Fit at home describes the device as "just right for anyone who wants to train seriously and appreciates the quality and functionality." He recommends the AUGLETICS Eight Style especially advanced users who appreciate an investment in a durable and powerful device.

Ulf's rowing machine test on Harder-Faster-Better-Stronger

A particularly informative comparison of rowing machines comes from Ulf, the operator of the blog Harder-Faster-Better-Stronger. In his test, he compares various popular models and analyses the advantages and disadvantages in detail. He emphasises that the AUGLETICS Eight impresses with the following advantages:

 

-Quiet operationIdeal for training in apartment blocks or late at night.

-Modern designWith high-quality oak panelling, a real eye-catcher that blends harmoniously into any living space.

-Integrated Virtual Coach: Supports beginners in particular in learning a safe and effective technique.

-Space-saving: Perfect for smaller rooms thanks to the folding mechanism.

 

Ulf describes the AUGLETICS Eight as the perfect choice for anyone looking for a quiet, powerful and elegant rowing machine that is also technically at the highest level.

Read the full article: Rowing machine test on Harder-Faster-Better-Stronger

The AUGLETICS Eight Style: your ideal rowing machine for at home

The AUGLETICS Eight Style has everything you could wish for in a high-quality rowing machine for the home:
 
  • Compact and space-savingThe device is designed to fit into smaller spaces and can be stowed away after training to save space.
  • Quiet operation thanks to magnetic brakeThe electric eddy current brake ensures a virtually silent workout - perfect for late-night workouts or training in a noisy flat.
  • Integrated touchscreen and entertainment: On the large touchscreen, you can not only keep an eye on your training results, but also stream YouTube videos or other content to make your training more entertaining.
  • Virtual coach for optimum technologyThe Virtual Coach supports you with your technique and gives you valuable feedback so that you can perform the movement safely and efficiently.
  • Sustainable materialsThe AUGLETICS Eight Style is made in Germany from high-quality, sustainable materials such as oak wood - a plus point for anyone who values environmental friendliness.

Take the test: Is the AUGLETICS rowing machine right for you?

Still not sure whether the AUGLETICS Eight Style fits your training goals? Then take our quiz and find out how well this rowing machine fits in with your everyday life and fitness plans. Answer a few questions and find out whether the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the perfect choice for your home.

With this comprehensive rowing machine test and overview of the most important criteria, you are well equipped to find the right model. The AUGLETICS Eight Style offers you the perfect combination of comfort, performance and entertainment, making it an excellent choice for professional rowing training at home.

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