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Best Rowing Machine for Beginners: how to Find the Right Model to Start Rowing

4. December 2024

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BY Lars Wichert

Would you like to start rowing, but don’t know which rowing machine is right for you? Don’t worry – this question concerns many who want to venture into one of the most effective sports of all. Rowing is ideal for combining endurance and strength, activating all major muscle groups and training in a way that is easy on the joints. At the same time, it offers a perfect way to get fit without commuting to the gym for hours. But what should you, as a beginner, look out for when choosing a rowing machine?
In this article, you will get all the information you need to find the right rowing machine for you – I am Lars Wichert, former competitive rower and two-time Olympian, and I will share my tips and experiences with you.

Why rowing is the ideal sport for beginners

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts. It activates over 85% of the muscles – from the legs to the torso to the arms and shoulders. At the same time, it is a sport that strengthens your cardiovascular system and improves your endurance.
Rowing offers many advantages, especially for beginners:
  • Easy on the joints: Unlike jogging, rowing does not put any sudden pressure on the joints.
  • Individually scalable: Whether you want to start with a relaxed session or really push yourself – you can perfectly adapt the training to your fitness level.
  • Time-saving: Just 20 minutes of rowing a day is enough to achieve noticeable progress.
  • Efficient: Rowing burns a lot of calories and helps build muscle, which in the long term even increases your basal metabolic rate.

Who I am and why I can help you with rowing machines

Porträt von Lars Wichert, Sportwissenschaftler, ehemaliger Ruderleistungssportler und Ironman-Amateur-Weltbestzeitinhaber.

I am Lars Wichert, a former high-performance rower, world champion and Olympian. After my active career, I made it my mission to make it easier for people to get started in rowing. As an expert, I know what is important in a good rowing machine – and what requirements beginners and advanced users have. Together with AUGLETICS, I am working to make rowing accessible and easy for everyone.

What you should look for when buying a rowing machine

Everyone has different requirements for their sports equipment and does not always have an additional room in the apartment where they can train. Therefore, you should be clear in advance about what you expect from your rowing machine.

1. Stability and quality

A rowing machine should be robustly built so that you can fully concentrate on your training. Beginners in particular need a machine that has a stable base and enables an even pull.

2. Adjustable resistance

An individually adjustable resistance is particularly important so that you can adapt the device to your fitness level. Magnetic brake systems, such as those used in the AUGLETICS Eight Style, offer a smooth and fluid resistance adjustment here.

3. Quiet operation

When you train at home, you probably don’t want loud noises that could disturb others. Magnetically braked devices such as the AUGLETICS Eight Style are extremely quiet and are perfect for training in apartments.

4. Operation and functions

An intuitive display with pre-set training programs is a great advantage. Devices like the AUGLETICS Eight Style even offer a virtual trainer that helps you improve your technique and maintain your motivation in the long term.

5. Space-saving

A folding rowing machine is ideal if you don’t have a dedicated training room. After training, the device can be easily stowed away and takes up hardly any space.

A look at different rowing machines

In a comparison video, my colleague Britta took a close look at various rowing machines. Here are the most important findings:

  • Water resistance devices: Models such as the WaterRower create a pleasant splashing sound. With an even pull, you get a feeling close to rowing, although depending on the manufacturer, you sometimes have to reckon with a loss of pressure in the front reversal. Furthermore, they are often louder and offer less flexibility in terms of resistance adjustment and the amount of space required for storage.
  • Air resistance devices: The Concept2 is a classic, especially in competitive sports. It is robust, but loud and therefore less suitable for living rooms.
  • Magnetic resistance devices: The AUGLETICS Eight Style combines whisper-quiet operation with a smooth and adjustable resistance. The compact design is ideal for stowing away after exercise.
  • Hydraulic devices: These are often inexpensive and compact, but offer neither stability nor a realistic rowing experience.

The right rowing technique: Your key to success

Before you get on your rowing machine, you should learn the basics of rowing technique. A clean technique is not only important for training effectively, but also for avoiding injuries. When rowing, there are three essential phases that should blend harmoniously into one another:
  1. The pull-through: You start from the starting position with your legs bent and your arms outstretched. The first impulse comes from the legs, followed by the upper body swing and finally the pull of the arms. The movement should be powerful but controlled. It is important that the upper body follows the leg thrust so that an optimal power output can be achieved.
  2. The backward lean: At the end of the pull, your legs are stretched out, your upper body is leaning slightly back, and your arms are pulling the handle just below your chest. Make sure you have an upright posture and a stable core tension. The wrists are in line with the forearm.
  3. Rolling forward: For the next stroke, stretch your arms forward so that your hands pass your knees. Simultaneously, lean your upper body slightly forward and pull yourself forward at your feet into the starting position as soon as your hands have passed your knees, until you are back in the starting position.

A common beginner’s mistake is to work too hard with the arms or to straighten the upper body too early. Instead, you should concentrate on using your legs as the main driving force and developing a smooth movement sequence.
To take a closer look at the technique, feel free to watch my video on rowing technique. There I show you step by step how to perform the perfect rowing stroke and give you valuable tips on how to avoid mistakes. With a solid technique, rowing is not only more fun, but also brings you results faster.

Why the AUGLETICS Eight Style is perfect for beginners

The AUGLETICS Eight Style was specially developed for people who want to train comfortably at home. Here are some of the most important advantages:
  • Easy to use: The large touchscreen gives you direct access to various programs and motivating training routes.
  • Virtual trainer: The integrated coach gives you feedback on your technique and helps you avoid mistakes – perfect for beginners.
  • Quiet and space-saving: The device is whisper-quiet and can be easily folded up after training.
  • Design: With its modern look in wood or black powder-coated aluminum, it blends harmoniously into any home.
  • Motivating features: From training analysis to Netflix integration, the device offers numerous functions that motivate you and make training varied.

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

2.790,00 EUR

Details

Quiz: Is the rowing machine right for you?

Are you still unsure if home rowing is the right choice for you? Take our interactive quiz and find out! It will help you identify your fitness goals and discover if a rowing machine could be your perfect training partner.

Conclusion: The best rowing machine for beginners

Getting started with rowing is easier than you think – especially if you have the right equipment by your side. Whether you want to improve your fitness, lose weight or simply create a healthy balance to everyday life: A good rowing machine is the key to success.
The AUGLETICS Eight Style meets all the requirements that beginners should have for a rowing machine. It is quiet, space-saving, easy to use and offers you numerous functions that make it easier for you to get started. Try it out and discover how much fun rowing can be!

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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