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Rowing Machine without Water – the Best Alternatives to Water Resistance

14. February 2025

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BY Lars Wichert

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts and offers an ideal combination of endurance and strength training. Many people associate rowing machines with water resistance, as this is supposed to simulate the real rowing feeling on water. However, there are numerous alternatives that can be more realistic and even more practical for home use. A rowing machine without water offers many advantages: It is often quieter, maintenance-free, and in many cases more compact. But what alternatives are there, and which system is best suited for your training?

1. What Resistance Systems Are There Besides Water?

While water resistance enables a natural and dynamic training method, there are also magnetic, air, and hydraulic resistances that offer other advantages. Here is an overview of the alternatives to water resistance:

Magnetic Resistance – Quiet and Precise

Rowing machines with magnetic resistance are particularly popular for home use. The resistance is generated by magnets that move closer to or further away from a flywheel to regulate the intensity.

Advantages:

  • Extremely Quiet – Ideal for Apartments or Late-Night Workouts
  • Precisely Adjustable Resistance – Perfect for Individual Training
  • Smooth Movement – No Fluctuations Like with Water Resistance
  • High-Intensity Training Options – Perfect for Interval and Performance Training
  • Maintenance-Free – No Refilling or Cleaning Necessary

Air Resistance – Dynamic and Intense

Air resistance rowing machines work with a flywheel that moves air through a valve. The faster you row, the stronger the resistance becomes.
Advantages:
  • Dynamic Resistance – The Stronger the Pull, the Higher the Resistance
  • Realistic Rowing Feel – Similar to the Natural Resistance of Water
  • High-Intensity Training Options – Perfect for Interval and Performance Training

Combined Resistance – Magnetic + Air

Some high-quality rowing machines combine air and magnetic resistance to utilize the advantages of both systems.
Advantages:
  • Adjustable Basic Resistance via Magnets
  • Dynamic Adjustment via Airflow
  • Suitable for Various Training Intensities
  • Very Expensive

Hydraulic Resistance – Compact, but Less Realistic

Hydraulic rowing machines are often small and inexpensive, but function differently from classic rowing machines. The resistance is generated by cylinders that work with oil or air during rowing.
Advantages:
  • Very Compact and Easy to Store
  • Affordable Purchase Price
  • Ideal for Occasional Workouts
Disadvantages:
  • Resistance Not Uniform – Feels Jerky
  • Not Suitable for Intense Training
  • No Real Rowing Feel

2. Advantages of a Rowing Machine Without Water

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

1. Lower Noise Level

While water-braked machines produce a constant splashing sound, which can be pleasant for some, magnetic and hydraulic systems operate almost silently. This is particularly practical if you live in an apartment or want to complete your workout late at night.

2. Low Maintenance and Durable

A rowing machine without water does not require regular cleaning or maintenance. Water machines occasionally need to be treated with tablets or emptied to prevent algae formation – this effort is completely eliminated with magnetic and air systems.

3. More Compact and Lighter

Many water-braked rowing machines are bulky and heavy. Magnetic rowing machines like the AUGLETICS Eight Style, however, are lighter, often foldable, and thus perfect for smaller rooms or for storage after training. The AUGLETICS Eight Sport and Style is one of the most compact rowing machines on the market. With a length of only 181 cm and a width of 45 cm, it is among the most space-saving devices. After training, the rowing machine occupies only 56 x 45 x 170 cm of space, making it easy to store almost anywhere.

The Augletics Eight rowing machine, featuring a modern design of wood and metal, is located in a stylish living room.

4. Uniform Resistance Without Performance Fluctuations

Electronic magnetic systems like those from AUGLETICS offer a realistic rowing feel, as the resistance is dynamically controlled via the pull, which is ideal especially for beginners. With water resistance, the resistance varies more depending on the execution of the movement and, depending on the model, experiences a pressure loss in the initial pull if the water tank does not optimally match the impeller blades.

5. Individual Adjustment Options

While water-braked machines regulate resistance only through one’s own pulling force or by filling the tank, magnetic and air systems allow for more precise adjustment via digital settings or manual adjustment of the fan wheel.

3. Comparison: Magnetic Resistance vs. Air Resistance vs. Water

Magnetic resistance performs best, especially in terms of noise level and maintenance-free operation. For those who prioritize joint-friendly, quiet, and individually adjustable training, a magnetic rowing machine is the best choice.

4. The AUGLETICS Eight Style – The Best Choice for a Rowing Machine Without Water

The AUGLETICS Eight Style combines modern technology with an intelligent magnetic braking system and offers a highly developed training experience. In the independent test of rowing machines in the F.A.Z., the AUGLETICS Eight Sport secured the test victory for magnetic-braked rowing machines. The advantages that make AUGLETICS convincing are:

1. Modern Magnetic Braking System

The AUGLETICS Eight Style uses an eddy current brake which provides smooth resistance. This makes every rowing stroke feel particularly smooth, while the resistance can be precisely adjusted.

2. Virtual Coach for Perfect Technique

A highlight of the device is the integrated Virtual Coach. This analyzes your rowing technique in real-time and provides direct suggestions for improvement. This is particularly helpful for beginners to learn the correct technique from the start and avoid incorrect postures.

3. Interactive Training Options

The large touchscreen display offers:
  • Pre-programmed training programs for strength, endurance, or fat burning
  • Technique analysis with live feedback
  • Streaming services like Netflix & YouTube to make training more enjoyable

4. Space-Saving Design

Thanks to the foldable rail system, the AUGLETICS Eight Style can be reduced to a compact size and easily stored – a great advantage for small living spaces.

5. Individual Resistance Adjustment

Thanks to the 15 finely tuned resistance levels, the training is perfectly suited for both beginners and advanced users. From endurance training to strength-intensive training within the last five levels, with the AUGLETICS Eight Style, training never gets boring.

Conclusion: Why a Rowing Machine Without Water Can Be the Better Alternative

A rowing machine without water is the optimal choice for anyone looking for quiet, maintenance-free, and flexible training. Magnetic resistance, in particular, convinces with its uniform load and precise adjustability.
The AUGLETICS Eight Style combines all these advantages and goes a step further with additional features like the Virtual Coach. Anyone looking for a high-quality rowing machine for home that offers technique training, entertainment, and a space-saving design will make the perfect choice here.

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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