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Home Rowing Machine: the Ideal Choice for your Home

7. March 2025

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BY Lars Wichert

Why a home rowing machine is a great investment

Home fitness equipment is becoming increasingly popular as it allows you to train flexibly and independently of opening hours or weather conditions. A home rowing machine is one of the most versatile training devices, as it not only enables effective endurance training, but also works almost the entire body musculature.
Rowing is one of the most efficient sports for a comprehensive workout. It activates up to 85% of the total musculature, strengthens the cardiovascular system and promotes calorie consumption. The ability to train at home at any time without having to go to the gym makes a home rowing machine a worthwhile investment for fitness enthusiasts of all performance levels.

The benefits of rowing for fitness and health

Rowing training offers numerous health benefits:
Full-Body Workout
In contrast to many other fitness devices, a rowing machine works almost all muscle groups. Legs, back, arms, shoulders and the torso work synchronously, which leads to a particularly effective strength and endurance training. Especially the core musculature is important for a better posture in everyday life.
Cardiovascular benefits
Regular rowing strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves oxygen uptake and can lower blood pressure in the long term. The resting heart rate is lowered and the stroke volume is increased in the long term. Both changes are positive signs of a more efficiently working heart.
Calorie consumption and weight reduction
A rowing machine is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to lose weight. Depending on intensity, age and physical condition, between 500 and 1,000 calories can be burned per hour – ideal for fat burning. For weight reduction, however, not only exercise is important, but also calorie intake. For an optimal result, a caloric deficit must be achieved, which can be created with training and the right diet.
Joint-Friendly Training
Compared to running, the movements during rowing are particularly gentle on the joints. There are no impact loads that strain the body. This makes the training suitable for people with knee problems or older people. Due to the guided movement, a higher range of motion can often be achieved for the respective affected joints, in contrast to other sports.
Mental benefits
In addition to the physical benefits, rowing also helps to reduce stress and promote concentration. Endurance sports such as rowing have been shown to help against depression, as they increase the production of happiness hormones such as endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which ensure a better mood. At the same time, it lowers the stress hormone cortisol, which reduces anxiety and tension. Regular training also improves sleep, promotes neuroplasticity in the brain and can stimulate the growth of new nerve cells, which alleviates depressive symptoms in the long term. In addition, endurance sports strengthens self-esteem, offers a healthy distraction from negative thoughts.

Important aspects when buying a home rowing machine

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.

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

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.
Space requirements & folding mechanism
For small apartments, foldable models are ideal. The AUGLETICS Eight Style offers a particularly space-saving folding function. When set up, the rowing machine is only 181 cm long, but you do not have to make any compromises on the rowing-optimized geometry of the ergometer. When folded with a height of 170 cm, it is as compact as three water boxes on top of each other.
Display & training programs
Modern rowing machines like the AUGLETICS Eight Style have a large touch display. The AUGLETICS Eight Style also comes with pre-programmed training programs as well as a Virtual Coach, who analyzes every rowing stroke and gives live feedback so that you can either learn to row or improve your existing technique.
High-quality devices may require a larger investment, but offer a higher benefit in the long term. Models like the AUGLETICS Eight Style convince with excellent workmanship and innovative technology.

Technical aspect: The right rowing technique for effective training

An effective rowing training is based on a clean technique. The movement sequence is divided into several phases: the recovery phase, the pull phase and the return phase. A correct execution not only ensures optimal training efficiency, but also protects against injuries.

In the pull phase, you push off the footplate with your legs, keep your back straight and simultaneously pull the handle with your arms until it is at chest height. In the recovery phase, the movement is slowly reversed, with the arms first moving forward before the upper body tilts forward and the legs are bent. A common mistake is to pull with the back first or not fully extend the legs, which reduces the effectiveness of the movement.
A good rhythm is crucial for training success. Beginners tend to perform the movement too hectically or with too high a stroke rate. An efficient rowing stroke follows the principle: Powerful propulsion and controlled return. The AUGLETICS Eight Style helps with its Virtual Coach to monitor the technique in real time and correct errors.
The technique should always take precedence over strength or speed. Anyone who rows too fast without maintaining the correct form risks excessive stress on the joints and an ineffective training session. Therefore, it is advisable to concentrate on the correct execution of the movement at the beginning before increasing intensity and stroke rate.

An athletic man trains with the Augletics Eight rowing machine in a living room with a panoramic view of a lake.

Home rowing machine in comparison: Which models are available?

The AUGLETICS Eight Style as the ideal solution for home training

The AUGLETICS Eight Style is one of the best options for home training. It combines innovative technology with maximum comfort. The electronically controlled magnetic brake ensures a smooth, joint-friendly resistance and allows a precise control of the training. It is also extremely quiet, making it ideal for apartments.
Another highlight is the Virtual Coach, who gives real-time feedback on the technique. This not only helps beginners to get used to a correct technique from the beginning, but also enables advanced athletes to continuously optimize their training.
The space-saving design with folding function allows you to easily stow the device after training. In addition, the AUGLETICS Eight Style offers entertainment options, such as streaming services and online competitions, which provide additional motivation. The ability to row with other users worldwide makes the training more varied and exciting in the long term.
In summary, the AUGLETICS Eight Style is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a modern, powerful and quiet rowing machine for home. The combination of innovative technology, joint-friendly resistance adjustment and interactive training options makes it one of the best investments for long-term fitness.

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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