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Best Magnetic Rowing Machine – Test Winner According to F.A.Z.

6. February 2025

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BY Lars Wichert

Why a Rowing Machine is the Ideal Choice for Your Workout

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts. It engages up to 85% of your muscles, increases endurance, and promotes fat burning – all while being gentle on your joints. A high-quality rowing machine offers an efficient way to train from home and challenge your body holistically.
In addition to muscle building and improving fitness, rowing also offers numerous health benefits. It strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves posture, and reduces the risk of injury, as the load is evenly distributed and, unlike jogging, there is no impact stress. Furthermore, it positively affects metabolism and can also help reduce stress. Since the movements in rowing are fluid, it is an excellent choice for people with joint problems or those seeking a joint-friendly alternative to jogging or other endurance sports. Especially for older individuals, rowing allows for improving the range of motion of the joints, as the guided movement can lead to a greater degree of flexibility.

Comparison of Resistance Systems: Air, Water, and Magnetic Brakes

When purchasing a rowing machine, the braking system plays a crucial role. The three main types – air resistance, water resistance, and magnetic brake – each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Air-Braked Rowing Machines
  • Resistance is generated by a fan wheel that is braked.
  • Advantages: Natural resistance curve, suitable for high intensities, adjustable resistance
  • Disadvantages: Very loud

2. Water-Braked Rowing Machines
  • Resistance is created by a water-filled tank in which the flywheel rotates.
  • Advantages: Pleasant rowing feel for beginners, water sound.
  • Disadvantages: Louder than magnetic brake, requires maintenance (refilling water, cleaning), sometimes slippage during pressure application.

3. Magnetic-Braked Rowing Machines
  • Resistance is generated by a magnetic field that acts on the flywheel.
  • Resistance adjustment is precise and independent of pulling force.
  • Advantages: Whisper-quiet, maintenance-free, precise resistance adjustment.
  • Disadvantages: May feel less dynamic on some devices than air or water resistance.

Test Winner according to F.A.Z.: The AUGLETICS Eight Sport

The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (F.A.Z.) has awarded the AUGLETICS Eight Sport as the best magnetic-braked rowing machine – and for good reason. Compared to other rowing machines, it sets new standards in terms of technology, comfort, and training efficiency.

Test Winner according to F.A.Z.: The AUGLETICS Eight Sport

The AUGLETICS Eight Sport distinguishes itself from the competition through numerous unique selling points. While many rowing machines are either loud, inflexible, or complicated to operate, this model combines all advantages for an optimal training experience:

1. Magnetic Braking System – Quiet, Maintenance-Free, and Efficient
  • Unlike water- or air-braked rowing machines, the magnetic brake operates almost silently. Perfect for apartments or late-night workouts, or when you don’t want to disturb others.
  • 15 resistance levels allow for training from gentle cardio sessions to intensive strength training. Ten resistance levels for rowing training and five strength levels offer the right resistance for every purpose.
  • No maintenance required – no water refilling, no wear and tear.

Mann bedient das Touchscreen-Display eines AUGLETICS Rudergeräts, auf dem verschiedene Trainingsprogramme angezeigt werden.

2. State-of-the-Art Technology with Touchscreen
  • The rotatable 10-inch HD touchscreen on the Augletics Eight Sport, as well as the rotatable and swiveling 15-inch HD touchscreen on the Augletics Eight Style, are used for controlling training sessions and analyzing performance.
  • Access to streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime to make training entertaining.
  • Integrated training programs and detailed performance analyses for professional training management.
  • The integrated virtual coach on the AUGLETICS Eight Style serves to learn and improve rowing technique. Five detailed points of the rowing stroke are analyzed in real-time per stroke and provided as feedback to the athlete.

Aufrecht verstautes Fitnessgerät in einem modernen Wohnzimmer neben einem Sofa und Bücherregal

3. Compact & Stylish Design
  • With a length of only 181 cm and a width of 45 cm, it is one of the most space-saving devices on the market.
  • Foldable rail: After training, it only takes up 56 x 45 x 170 cm of space, so the rowing machine can find a place almost anywhere.
  • High-quality materials, such as brushed aluminum or oak, in combination with a modern, sleek design, make it a visual highlight.

4. Ergonomics & Comfort
  • Ergonomic seat for a comfortable rowing experience even during long training sessions.
  • Adjustable footrests and non-slip grip ensure an ideal posture and allow the rowing machine to be optimally adjusted for everyone. Athletes up to two meters tall can easily train with the AUGLETICS. Likewise, the rowing machine is designed for a load of 195 kilograms.

Comparison: AUGLETICS Eight Sport vs. Other Magnetic Rowing Machines

While many other magnetic rowing machines offer simple displays and limited resistance levels, the AUGLETICS Eight Sport impresses with smart technology, high user-friendliness, and maximum training variety. Furthermore, the braking system on the AUGLETICS is electronically controlled. This makes the braking system’s calibration even more precise than with magnetic-braked systems that lack electronic control.

Who is the AUGLETICS Eight Sport ideal for?

This rowing machine is perfect for you if you:
  • Value technology and innovation.
  • Are looking for a quiet but powerful device for your home.
  • Require a space-saving design that can be stored almost anywhere.
The AUGLETICS Eight Sport is the undisputed test winner among magnetic-braked rowing machines and an investment that pays off. It combines state-of-the-art technology with first-class comfort and offers a training experience that is second to none. Whether you are a beginner or an ambitious rower, this device adapts to your needs and ensures that you get the most out of your training.

Conclusion: Is the AUGLETICS Eight Sport worth it?

If you are looking for a quiet, modern, and space-saving rowing machine that stands out from the crowd with innovative technology, the AUGLETICS Eight Sport is the best choice. The F.A.Z. test winner impresses with its combination of magnetic braking system, smart operation, and stylish design – an investment that is equally worthwhile for beginners and ambitious athletes.

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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