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Alternatives to Water Rowing Machines – What Systems are Available?

27. February 2025

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BY Lars Wichert

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts, demanding both endurance and strength. Many rowing machines utilize water resistance, which is intended to simulate the authentic rowing experience on water. However, not everyone prefers this system. A rowing machine without water offers clear advantages, especially for home use. It is quieter, maintenance-free, and often more compact than water-resistance models.
While some rowers find the splashing of water pleasant, others may find it disruptive – especially in apartments or when training takes place in the early morning or late evening hours. Maintenance effort also plays a role. A water rowing machine must be regularly cleaned and treated with tablets to prevent algae formation. Models with magnetic or air resistance are significantly easier to maintain in this regard.
This article highlights the best alternatives to water-resistance rowing machines and explains why modern resistance systems, such as magnetic braking systems, represent an attractive choice.

What alternatives are there to water rowing machines?

A rowing machine does not necessarily have to be water-powered to enable realistic and effective training. There are various resistance systems, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In addition to water, magnetic, air, and hydraulic resistances are available, which differ in their functionality and training dynamics.

Magnetic Resistance – Quiet, Precise, and Maintenance-Free

A rowing machine with magnetic resistance uses electromagnetic brakes to generate resistance. This technology allows for precise control of intensity, which can be adjusted incrementally or digitally depending on the model. Magnetic resistance offers a particularly consistent load and is almost silent, making it the ideal choice for home workouts.
Magnetic resistance offers advantages, especially for users who prefer structured training. The precise control allows for targeted load adjustments suitable for technique training, interval training, or strength-endurance programs. Another decisive advantage is its maintenance-free nature. While water rowing machines require regular cleaning, the magnetic brake remains reliably functional for years. If the magnet is electronically controlled, the resistance can also automatically change during a pre-programmed session. Furthermore, as with the AUGLETICS Eight Style, in the program for heart rate-based training, the resistance is adjusted so that you always row within your specified heart rate zone.

Bildschirmfoto 2025 01 23 um 15.07.50

Air Resistance – Dynamic, but Loud

Air resistance rowing machines generate resistance via a flywheel with fan blades. The faster the athlete rows, the stronger the resistance becomes. This system allows for very natural training dynamics but is associated with a significant noise level.
Those who prefer intensive training and value progressive load increase can make a good choice with an air resistance system. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the loud air turbulence at high stroke rates can be disruptive, especially in rental apartments or if other people are in the immediate vicinity. It must also be considered that you need to clean the device regularly. The fan accumulates dust over time, meaning the resistance will differ even with the same fan setting.

Hydraulic Resistance – Compact, but Less Realistic

Hydraulic rowing machines use pistons with oil or air to generate resistance. They are generally more affordable and require little space, but they do not offer the same realistic rowing feel as air or magnetic resistance systems.
A significant disadvantage is the often uneven resistance. During the rowing stroke, jerky movements can occur, interrupting the natural flow of motion. Furthermore, the resistance is often not as precisely adjustable as with other systems. Hydraulic rowing machines are therefore more suitable for occasional users or people looking for a space-saving and cost-effective alternative. Additionally, the geometry of these devices often does not correspond to optimal rowing technique.

Advantages of a Rowing Machine Without Water

Many rowing enthusiasts believe that only a water-resistance machine can offer a realistic rowing feel. However, rowing machines without water have clear advantages – especially for home use.

Lower Noise Level

A major advantage of magnetic and hydraulic rowing machines is their low noise emission. While water rowing machines produce a permanent background noise from the splashing water, magnetic rowing machines are almost silent. This is particularly practical for people living in an apartment or wishing to complete their workout late in the evening without disturbing roommates or neighbors.

Low Maintenance and Durable

A rowing machine without water requires no regular cleaning or maintenance. While water-resistance models occasionally need to be emptied and treated with care tablets, and air-resistance systems require the fan to be kept free of dust, magnetic resistance remains maintenance-free for years. The risk of leaks or material wear inside the tank is also eliminated.

Compact Design and Easy Storage

Many water-resistance rowing machines are bulky and heavy. Magnetic rowing machines, such as the AUGLETICS Eight Style, are often foldable and thus perfect for smaller spaces. The model can simply be folded up after training and stored in a space-saving manner.

Advantages of a Rowing Machine Without Water

The different resistance systems each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

While water-resistance machines simulate the rowing feel well, magnetic rowing machines perform better, especially in terms of noise level, maintenance effort, and individual customization.

Why the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the Best Alternative

The AUGLETICS Eight Style relies on a state-of-the-art magnetic braking system and offers some of the most advanced features in home rowing.
A special highlight is the Virtual Coach, which analyzes technique in real-time and provides immediate feedback to the athlete. This feature helps to avoid errors and develop a clean technique.
The large 15-inch touchscreen provides an interactive training experience. In addition to pre-installed workouts and technique analyses, the display also offers access to streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, making the training even more entertaining.
Another advantage is the space-saving design. Thanks to the foldable rail, the rowing machine can be easily stored after training. The robust magnetic braking system also ensures a long lifespan and consistently precise resistance control.

AUGLETICS Eight Style
Augletics Eight rowing machine with wood and aluminum frame, integrated tablet display

2.790,00 EUR

Details

Conclusion: Which Alternative is the Best?

A rowing machine without water is the optimal choice for anyone seeking quiet, maintenance-free, and flexible training. While water rowing machines are often associated with higher maintenance and greater space requirements, modern alternatives like magnetic resistance offer precise control options and virtually silent training.
The AUGLETICS Eight Style particularly impresses with innovative technology, high-quality design, and individual adjustment options. Those looking for a long-term, versatile, and quiet training solution will make the best choice with a high-quality magnetic rowing machine.

About the author

Lars Wichert

Lars Wichert ist Sportwissenschaftler und ehemaliger Leistungssportler im Rudern. Er war 13 Jahre Teil der deutschen Nationalmannschaft. Dabei kann er auf zwei Teilnahmen an den Olympischen Spielen sowie drei Weltmeistertitel zurückblicken. Er war nach seiner Ruderkarriere als Trainer tätig und konnte mit seinem Team die Europameisterschaft gewinnen. Mittlerweile ist er in seiner Freizeit im Triathlon unterwegs und hält dort die Weltbestzeit der Amateure über die Ironman-Distanz. Lars verfügt über das Wissen als Trainer, Leistungssportler und Sportwissenschaftler, sodass sich jeder angesprochen fühlen kann. Sein Ziel ist es, Spaß an der Bewegung zu vermitteln und zu verdeutlichen, dass mit geringem Aufwand viel für die Gesundheit getan werden kann – denn es gibt keine bessere Vorsorge als die in seine eigene Gesundheit. Lars Wichert è uno scienziato dello sport ed ex atleta agonista di canottaggio. Ha fatto parte della nazionale tedesca per 13 anni. Ha partecipato a due Olimpiadi e ha vinto tre titoli mondiali. Dopo la carriera di canottiere, ha lavorato come allenatore e ha vinto il campionato europeo con la sua squadra. Nel tempo libero pratica il triathlon e detiene il record mondiale amatoriale sulla distanza Ironman. Lars dispone delle conoscenze necessarie come allenatore, atleta agonista e scienziato dello sport, in modo da poter soddisfare le esigenze di tutti. Il suo obiettivo è quello di trasmettere il piacere del movimento e di dimostrare che con poco sforzo si può fare molto per la salute, perché non c’è prevenzione migliore che quella della propria salute. Lars Wichert is a sports scientist and former competitive rower. He was a member of the German national team for 13 years. He can look back on two Olympic appearances and three world championship titles. After his rowing career, he worked as a coach and won the European Championship with his team. He now spends his free time competing in triathlons and holds the world record for amateurs over the Ironman distance. Lars has the knowledge as a coach, competitive athlete and sports scientist, so that everyone can feel addressed. His goal is to convey the fun of exercise and to make it clear that a lot can be done for one’s health with little effort – because there is no better prevention than taking care of one’s own health. Lars Wichert est scientifique du sport et ancien athlète de haut niveau en aviron. Il a fait partie de l’équipe nationale allemande pendant 13 ans. Il a participé à deux reprises aux Jeux Olympiques et remporté trois titres de champion du monde. Après sa carrière d’avironneur, il a travaillé comme entraîneur et a remporté le championnat d’Europe avec son équipe. Aujourd’hui, il consacre son temps libre au triathlon et détient le record mondial amateur sur la distance Ironman. Lars dispose des connaissances nécessaires en tant qu’entraîneur, athlète de haut niveau et scientifique du sport, ce qui lui permet de s’adresser à tout le monde. Son objectif est de transmettre le plaisir de bouger et de montrer qu’il est possible de faire beaucoup pour sa santé avec peu d’efforts, car il n’y a pas de meilleure prévention que celle de sa propre santé.
Picture of Lars Wichert

Lars Wichert

Lars Wichert ist Sportwissenschaftler und ehemaliger Leistungssportler im Rudern. Er war 13 Jahre Teil der deutschen Nationalmannschaft. Dabei kann er auf zwei Teilnahmen an den Olympischen Spielen sowie drei Weltmeistertitel zurückblicken. Er war nach seiner Ruderkarriere als Trainer tätig und konnte mit seinem Team die Europameisterschaft gewinnen. Mittlerweile ist er in seiner Freizeit im Triathlon unterwegs und hält dort die Weltbestzeit der Amateure über die Ironman-Distanz. Lars verfügt über das Wissen als Trainer, Leistungssportler und Sportwissenschaftler, sodass sich jeder angesprochen fühlen kann. Sein Ziel ist es, Spaß an der Bewegung zu vermitteln und zu verdeutlichen, dass mit geringem Aufwand viel für die Gesundheit getan werden kann – denn es gibt keine bessere Vorsorge als die in seine eigene Gesundheit. Lars Wichert è uno scienziato dello sport ed ex atleta agonista di canottaggio. Ha fatto parte della nazionale tedesca per 13 anni. Ha partecipato a due Olimpiadi e ha vinto tre titoli mondiali. Dopo la carriera di canottiere, ha lavorato come allenatore e ha vinto il campionato europeo con la sua squadra. Nel tempo libero pratica il triathlon e detiene il record mondiale amatoriale sulla distanza Ironman. Lars dispone delle conoscenze necessarie come allenatore, atleta agonista e scienziato dello sport, in modo da poter soddisfare le esigenze di tutti. Il suo obiettivo è quello di trasmettere il piacere del movimento e di dimostrare che con poco sforzo si può fare molto per la salute, perché non c'è prevenzione migliore che quella della propria salute. Lars Wichert is a sports scientist and former competitive rower. He was a member of the German national team for 13 years. He can look back on two Olympic appearances and three world championship titles. After his rowing career, he worked as a coach and won the European Championship with his team. He now spends his free time competing in triathlons and holds the world record for amateurs over the Ironman distance. Lars has the knowledge as a coach, competitive athlete and sports scientist, so that everyone can feel addressed. His goal is to convey the fun of exercise and to make it clear that a lot can be done for one's health with little effort – because there is no better prevention than taking care of one's own health. Lars Wichert est scientifique du sport et ancien athlète de haut niveau en aviron. Il a fait partie de l'équipe nationale allemande pendant 13 ans. Il a participé à deux reprises aux Jeux Olympiques et remporté trois titres de champion du monde. Après sa carrière d'avironneur, il a travaillé comme entraîneur et a remporté le championnat d'Europe avec son équipe. Aujourd'hui, il consacre son temps libre au triathlon et détient le record mondial amateur sur la distance Ironman. Lars dispose des connaissances nécessaires en tant qu'entraîneur, athlète de haut niveau et scientifique du sport, ce qui lui permet de s'adresser à tout le monde. Son objectif est de transmettre le plaisir de bouger et de montrer qu'il est possible de faire beaucoup pour sa santé avec peu d'efforts, car il n'y a pas de meilleure prévention que celle de sa propre santé.

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