Try for free for 30 days

BACK TO OVERVIEW

Rowing for the Whole Family: Stay Fit and Healthy Together

16. December 2024

|

BY Lars Wichert
Rowing is no longer just a sport for competitive athletes or fitness enthusiasts. It has evolved into an activity that can inspire people of all ages. But why is rowing particularly ideal for the whole family? In this article, we will shed light on why rowing not only keeps you fit, but also strengthens family cohesion – and how a rowing machine like the AUGLETICS Eight Style can help get everyone on board.

Why rowing is ideal for the whole family

Rowing is a full-body workout that activates nearly 85% of the muscles. Legs, back, arms, and core are all equally engaged. It is easy on the joints and therefore safe for children who are still growing, as well as for seniors who may need to be a little more careful with their joints. This makes rowing one of the most versatile sports of all.
Another advantage: Rowing can be customized individually. Whether young or old, beginner or advanced – thanks to the adjustable resistance and customization options of modern rowing machines, everyone can train at their own pace and still be part of a shared activity. The training not only promotes physical fitness, but also has a positive effect on mental health. Stress is reduced, happiness hormones are released – the ideal recipe for a relaxed and healthy family.

Icon mit drei stilisierten Personen in einem türkisfarbenen Herz, das Gemeinschaft und Gesundheit symbolisiert.

Rowing as a connecting family activity

How often do we look for ways to spend time as a family that everyone enjoys? Rowing is perfect for this. Training together side-by-side on the rowing machine strengthens cohesion and creates fond memories. Children can row with their parents or grandparents, cheer each other on, and share their progress.
Small competitions or challenges make the whole thing even more exciting. Who rows the most meters in a certain time? Who reaches a set goal first? Such games not only promote sporting ambition, but also the fun of movement – an important factor for children in particular to remain active in the long term.
And the best part: Even if everyone rows individually, it remains a shared experience.

What should you pay attention to when the family rows?

To ensure that rowing is really fun for everyone and no one is frustrated, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Suitable settings for all body sizes
A good rowing machine should be easy to adjust to different body sizes. Modern devices like the AUGLETICS Eight Style offer flexible adjustment options so that everyone, from small to large, can row comfortably. The footrests for attachment should be height-adjustable. Likewise, the rowing machine should have a geometry from the ground up that corresponds to the pulling height and sitting position from the rowing boat, as on the AUGLETICS Eight Style.
The right resistance
For beginners – regardless of age – a light resistance is recommended. This is not only easier on the body, but also helps to improve technique without overstressing the muscles. Children can start with a lower intensity, while parents or older siblings can increase the resistance for a more challenging workout.

AUGLETICS Rudergerät in platzsparender, aufrechter Position vor einer modernen Wohnzimmerszene

Safety and technique
The correct rowing technique is particularly important. Mistakes can not only reduce the training effect, but also lead to tension or injuries. This is where a rowing machine with visual feedback comes into play. The integrated Virtual Trainer of the AUGLETICS Eight Style helps to correct the technique and ensures that everyone rows safely. Especially for children, the technique correction on the big screen is a huge motivation.
Regular breaks
Especially with younger family members, care should be taken to ensure that they are not overwhelmed. Short training sessions with regular breaks are ideal to keep the fun factor high.

From what age can you start rowing?

Bildschirm­foto 2023 05 04 um 12.30.25

The ideal age to start rowing depends on the physical development of the child. In principle, there is no strict age limit, as rowing is a joint-friendly and individually adjustable sport that is suitable for various age groups. It is important that the child brings an intrinsic motivation (by itself). Rowing on the rowing machine can be started a little earlier than rowing on the water, as the leverage forces on the water are somewhat different.

Rowing for children: When is the right time?

  • From about 8 to 10 years: At this age, children can begin to be introduced to the rowing technique in a playful way. It is important that the focus is on fun and exercise, without high performance pressure.
  • From 10 years: Here, many children are physically and coordinatively developed enough to start regular, age-appropriate training. The technique should always be in the foreground to avoid overloads.

Rowing on the rowing machine for children

A rowing machine can be a good way for children to learn the basics of rowing from an early age, from around the age of eight. It offers the following advantages:
  • Individual adjustment: Modern rowing machines like the AUGLETICS Eight Style allow you to adjust the resistance and foot position to the needs and size of the child.
  • Gentle training: Joints and ligaments are not overloaded, as rowing is a flowing and controlled movement.
  • Technique training: With functions such as a virtual trainer, children can learn the correct technique early on and avoid mistakes.

What should you pay attention to when the family rows?

Age-appropriate training: For younger children, it is important that the intensity remains low and the training does not last too long – about 10 to 15 minutes per unit is a good start.

Supervision and guidance: Parents or trainers should make sure that the technique is performed cleanly. Incorrect posture can lead to problems in the long term.

Fun in the foreground: Children should not feel that they have to perform. Playful elements make the training more exciting and provide motivation. In the end, the child will determine how long the training should be.

202411271155

The perfect rowing machine for the family

AUGLETICS DSCF8767 e1745930845339
When it comes to finding the ideal rowing machine for the whole family, there are a few criteria that are particularly important:

1. Easy to use

The device should be intuitive to use so that children and older family members can cope with it without difficulty.

2. Longevity and stability

A family-friendly rowing machine must be robust enough to withstand the demands of different users.
3. Space-saving design
Not every family has a separate fitness room. A foldable and compactly designed rowing machine like the AUGLETICS Eight Style can be easily stowed away when not in use.

4. Motivating functions

A large display, an integrated trainer, and interactive training programs are important features that make training exciting and varied. The AUGLETICS Eight Style, for example, offers the possibility to row virtual routes. This inactive function provides even more fun and motivation for children. The ambition to row through Berlin once or to get to know new landscapes is unbroken. You can also be guided through predefined programs, the practical thing here is that the program can be easily run without further adjustments due to the magnetic resistance, which is electronically controlled. The rowing machine does everything itself with the first stroke.
5. Quiet operation
A low-noise device is a must, especially if there are several people in the apartment or someone is sleeping in the next room. The AUGLETICS Eight Style scores here with an almost silent magnetic brake.

Tips for getting started: This is how rowing becomes a family highlight

To ensure that rowing quickly becomes an integral part of family life, a few simple tricks can help:
  • Schedule fixed times: Set up joint training sessions, e.g. before dinner or on weekends. This will make rowing a routine.
  • Set individual goals: Everyone should have their own goals, whether it’s 500 meters rowed or lasting 20 minutes.
  • Introduce rewards: A successful training evening can be rewarded with a game together or screen time.
  • Create variety: Use different training programs to keep rowing interesting. Variety promotes motivation. Training in pairs can also be fun here. While one is riding 500 meters on the rowing machine, the other has to do strength exercises.
  • Stay relaxed: Not every day will be perfect – that’s perfectly fine. The fun and the time together are in the foreground.

Conclusion: Rowing connects

Rowing is not only one of the most effective sports for the whole body, but also a wonderful way to come together as a family. It not only strengthens the muscles and endurance, but also cohesion and well-being. With a family-friendly device like the AUGLETICS Eight Style, training becomes an experience for young and old. Why not start together and discover the benefits of rowing as a family?

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.

BACK TO OVERVIEW

You might also be interested in

Man trains on a rowing machine in a stylishly furnished living room with plants and cozy furnishings. A real alternative to the gym.
9. January 2026

|

Lars Wichert

An alternative to the gym – train more effectively, live more flexibly

View Post

A woman trains on the Augletics rowing machine in a bright, modern living room. Next to her, an orange cat curiously sniffs at the machine.
8. January 2026

|

Lars Wichert

Healthy Fitness Routine: Why Rowing Will Revolutionize Your Winter Workout

View Post

Woman on the AUGLETICS rowing machine with interactive screen and virtual training route
6. January 2026

|

Lars Wichert

A cut above: Rowing machine or treadmill?

View Post

Is AUGLETICS right for me?

Is AUGLETICS right for me?

Take three minutes to find out if the AUGLETICS is also
the ideal sports equipment for you.

Take the test!

30 Tage kostenfrei testen

Try for free for 30 days