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Sports and Asthma – how Rowing Machine Training Can Help

24. May 2025

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BY Lars Wichert

For many, asthma and endurance sports seem contradictory. The fear of shortness of breath, coughing fits, or an asthma attack prevents many sufferers from being physically active. However, targeted exercise, correctly dosed and performed regularly, can significantly alleviate the symptoms. Rowing is a particularly gentle and effective sport – especially on an indoor rowing machine.
In this article, you will learn about the different forms of asthma, why rowing is particularly suitable, and how you can train safely despite having asthma – including practical tips and a look at the AUGLETICS Eight Style rowing machine, which enables you to train safely and with motivation.

Rowing as a gentle endurance sport for asthmatics

Rowing is a joint-friendly, rhythmic full-body workout. The controlled exertion, the even movement sequences, and the ability to perform the training completely independently of the weather make rowing an excellent choice for people with respiratory diseases such as asthma. Above all, indoor rowing offers a safe training environment – without cold, dry air, pollen, or other irritants that could become a problem outdoors.
Whether you have mild limitations or suffer from a chronic form – rowing can improve not only your endurance but also your lung function. It is important that you adapt the intensity to your level and listen to your body.

What is asthma? – The most important forms at a glance

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. It leads to hypersensitivity of the bronchi, which can manifest as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. A distinction is made between different forms:

Allergic asthma (extrinsic)

This form usually occurs in childhood or adolescence. Triggers are allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, mold, or animal hair. The symptoms are often seasonal – depending on the allergy.

Non-allergic asthma (intrinsic)

It is often only diagnosed in adulthood. Triggers are infections, stress, cold, medication (e.g., aspirin), or irritants such as cigarette smoke. This form is less controllable and often more severe.

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA)

The symptoms occur during or shortly after physical exertion. Shortness of breath is typical when the exertion becomes more intense. Particularly cold, dry air or high exertion increase the risk. At the same time, this form can usually be brought under control very well through regular, adapted training.

Why is sport still important for asthma?

Many doctors recommend adapted endurance training for asthmatics – and for good reason. Physical activity has a positive effect on the disease in many ways:
  • Better lung function: Regular training strengthens the respiratory muscles and increases the vital capacity of the lungs.
  • More endurance and fitness: The cardiovascular system benefits and the oxygen supply improves.
  • Immune system becomes more stable: Those who train regularly have fewer infections – an important point, as infections often worsen asthma.
  • Reduction of asthma attacks: Studies show that moderate physical activity reduces the number and intensity of attacks in many sufferers.
  • Fewer medications: In consultation with the doctor, the dosage of medication can be reduced in well-trained individuals.

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Rowing and asthma – What makes the rowing machine particularly suitable?

Rowing offers a number of advantages that make it an excellent form of training, especially for people with asthma. The even movement sequence is free of jerky shocks – unlike jogging or ball sports and racquet sports – and thus enables calmer, controlled breathing. In addition, you can train comfortably at home with the rowing machine, which means: no irritants such as pollen, cold air, or particulate matter – a clear advantage for sensitive airways.
Another advantage is the synchronized breathing rhythm, which results naturally from the movement sequence: You exhale during the drive phase and inhale again during the recovery phase. This creates a constant, calming flow of breath that helps to prevent shortness of breath. The risk of injury is also low, as it is a cyclical movement – ideal for (re)entering after inactivity.
Particularly important for people with asthma: The training intensity can be controlled individually – either via the stroke rate or the resistance. You have full control over your exertion level at all times and can flexibly adapt it to your daily form and well-being.

What should asthmatics pay attention to when rowing?

So that your training does not become a burden but strengthens you, you should pay attention to a few things:

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  • Preparation with the doctor: Have it clarified whether your asthma is well controlled and whether you should inhale a medication before exercising.
  • Do not forget to warm up: 10 to 15 minutes of light rowing reduces the risk of an asthma attack, additional mobilization can help to have a conscious breathing rhythm and to prepare your musculoskeletal system specifically for rowing. Greater flexibility of the joints and tendons gives you a smoother and higher range of motion.
  • Optimize the room climate: Avoid dry or dusty room air. A humidifier can help.
  • Incorporate breaks: Pay attention to your breathing. If you notice that you are getting out of breath, slow down.
  • No training with infections: You should also take a break even with mild colds – infections can significantly worsen asthma.

The positive effects of rowing on asthma sufferers

Regular training on the rowing machine can have numerous long-term effects:
  • Better lung capacity: Through the deep, rhythmic breathing during rowing, you train your respiratory muscles – diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and abdominal muscles.
  • More efficient oxygen uptake: Regular rowing improves oxygen uptake because your cardiovascular system works more efficiently: The heart pumps more blood per stroke, and at the same time, your body forms more capillaries (small blood vessels) around the muscles. This transports more oxygen-rich blood to the cells, where the mitochondria – the “power plants” of the cells – can use it more efficiently to generate energy. This noticeably increases your endurance and performance.
  • Lower susceptibility to attacks: The respiratory system becomes more robust overall.
  • Psychological benefits: The even training reduces stress – a common trigger of asthma attacks.
  • More self-efficacy: You learn to control your body and your breathing better.

Risks and limits: When is caution advised?

Despite the numerous advantages of rowing for asthma, there are also some risks and limits that you should consider. The correct training intensity is particularly important: Those who start too quickly or overexert themselves risk a narrowing of the bronchi, which can trigger an asthma attack. The room climate also plays a role – especially in winter, cold, dry air can irritate the airways, so you should train in well-tempered indoor spaces. In addition, overmotivation is a common mistake: Even if you feel good, stay moderate and increase your training slowly and in a controlled manner. In the case of severe asthma or frequent attacks, you should only train under medical supervision to avoid health risks.

Rowing with the AUGLETICS Eight Style – Safety and motivation for asthmatics

The AUGLETICS Eight Style is a particularly advanced rowing machine that offers many advantages for people with health restrictions such as asthma:

  • Magnetic resistance: The training is almost silent and particularly gentle – no draft or swing noise disturbs the flow of breath.
  • Virtual Coach: The device analyzes your technique in real time. This allows you to learn to row with the AUGLETICS Eight or improve your technique even further.
  • Entertainment options: The integration of YouTube, Netflix, or virtual routes makes the training varied – ideal for staying on track.
  • Ergonomic design: Comfortable seat, adjustable resistance – all this ensures a safe and pleasant training.
  • Data display: Pulse values and training zones help you stay in the “green zone.”

Tips for getting started with rowing training with asthma

Here are some practical tips for a safe start:
  • Talk to your doctor or pulmonologist. Medical clearance gives you security.
  • Start with short sessions: 10 to 15 minutes at low intensity is perfect.
  • Supplement with breathing exercises: Breathing techniques such as pursed-lip breathing or abdominal breathing help to deepen breathing.
  • Keep a training diary: Note duration, intensity, symptoms, and daily form.
  • Increase slowly: The goal is to train regularly – not to reach performance peaks immediately.

Conclusion: Rowing as an ideal endurance sport for asthma

Rowing is an effective, joint-friendly, and individually controllable training – ideal for people with asthma. The rhythmic movement helps to strengthen the respiratory muscles, reduce stress, and improve lung function. With the right control, the positive effects clearly outweigh the negative ones.
A rowing machine such as the AUGLETICS Eight Style not only offers a smart training environment but also safety, control, and motivation. With a little patience, preparation, and professional support, nothing stands in the way of an active, healthy life with asthma.

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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