Water Resistance

Do you want to improve your fitness and get stronger? Then choose a water-resistance rowing machine for a full-body workout. With the unique water resistance mechanism you always enjoy a realistic rowing experience, just as if you were rowing on real water. These rowing machines are also a beautiful addition to any interior thanks to their elegant and natural design.

Water-resistance rowing machines are the most realistic variant within the complete range of rowing machines. They work with a water tank filled with water and paddles that generate resistance as soon as you pull the handle towards you. The harder you row, the more resistance you experience. The main selection criteria are stability, maximum user height, resistance adjustment on the tank, the fold mechanism and material quality.

What is a water-resistance rowing machine?

A water-resistance rowing machine, also called a water rowing machine or water rower, is a rowing machine that works with a water resistance system. The machine has a tank filled with water, in which paddles are mounted that generate resistance when you pull the handle towards you. Compare it to a paddle going through water: the harder you pull, the more resistance the water provides.

Unlike magnetically braked rowing machines where resistance is set manually, the resistance in a water-resistance rower automatically scales with your effort. There is no dead spot after each rowing stroke, resulting in a smooth, continuous movement that most closely resembles rowing on open water.

Why choose a water-resistance rowing machine?

Water-resistance rowing machines are seen by many athletes as the best choice for an authentic rowing experience. The combination of a smooth stroke, automatically scaling resistance and the characteristic water sound makes training on a water rower more enjoyable and motivating than on other types.

The benefits of a water-resistance rowing machine include:

• Most realistic rowing experience, comparable to rowing on open water
• Automatically scaling resistance based on your effort
• No dead spot, smooth and continuous rowing stroke
• Full-body workout activating virtually all muscle groups
• Characteristic water sound that motivates and concentrates
• Elegant appearance thanks to wooden or aluminium frame — beautiful addition to any interior
• Low joint load for safe low-impact training

Which water-resistance rowing machine suits you?

The right choice depends on your training goal, budget, available space and desired material finish.

You want the most natural rowing feel and row regularly several times a week: Choose a quality model from an A-brand such as WaterRower or First Degree. These models are known for an exceptional rowing feel, durable construction and beautiful appearance. An investment that pays for itself in years of rowing enjoyment.

You also want to use the rowing machine as a design object in your living room: Choose a water rower with wooden frame. The elegant wooden appearance of brands like WaterRower makes the machine a decorative object that also looks beautiful when folded. Available in various wood types to match any interior.

You want to train intensively and need a robust frame with high user load: Choose a rowing machine of aluminium or steel with higher maximum user load. More robust than wooden models and better able to withstand intensive daily use by multiple users.

You have limited space and want to store the rowing machine after use: Choose a water-resistance rowing machine with fold mechanism. The water does not need to be emptied first in most models before you store the rower upright. Check the height and width of the folded model.

You want to save on a water-resistance rowing machine: View our range of used rowing machines. Water-resistance rowers are durable machines that last for years with good maintenance, making a second-hand model an excellent choice.

You are looking for a rowing machine specifically for your upper body and arms: Consider a hand and seat rowing machine. This variant trains primarily your arms, shoulders and upper back. Ideal for specific upper body training or rehabilitation after a leg injury.

What to look for when buying?

Stability

Stability is crucial for safe and effective training. An unstable rowing machine can wobble or slide during rowing, making it uncomfortable and dangerous. Check the construction of the frame, the weight of the machine and whether it has non-slip feet. Heavier models are generally more stable.

Maximum user height

Are you taller than 1.95 metres? Then always check the maximum user height of the model. A rail that is too short prevents a full and efficient rowing movement. For some water-resistance rowing machines an extension rail is available as an option for taller users.

Resistance adjustment on the tank

Most water-resistance rowing machines let you adjust the basic resistance by raising or lowering the water level in the tank. More water gives more basic resistance, less water less. Check how easy this adjustment is and whether the model offers that option. This is the only way to influence resistance besides your rowing power.

Fold mechanism and transport wheels

Do you want to store the rowing machine after use? Then check whether the model has a fold mechanism and transport wheels. A great advantage of water-resistance rowing machines is that the water does not need to be removed before storing the machine upright, which makes daily use considerably easier.

Maintenance of the water tank

Add chlorine tablets to the water tank every 3 to 4 months to keep the water clean and prevent algae or bacterial growth. This is simple maintenance that greatly extends the lifespan of the machine and a smooth operation of the mechanism. Always check the maintenance protocol of the specific model.

Material choice and appearance

Water-resistance rowing machines are available with a wooden frame for a warm, classic appearance or a frame of aluminium or steel for a more modern look. Wooden models are beautiful but require slightly more care for the wood. Aluminium and steel frames are more robust and withstand more intensive use.

Display and connectivity

Depending on the model, the rowing machine has a display on which you can read training time, distance, strokes per minute, calorie consumption and heart rate. Some models also have Bluetooth connectivity for linking with training apps. Want to monitor your heart rate accurately? Also view our range of heart rate monitors.

Our advice: Choose a water-resistance rowing machine from a quality brand if you want to train regularly. The higher purchase price compared to cheaper variants pays back in a better rowing experience, more durability and less maintenance. Always place your rowing machine on a protective mat to protect your floor and increase stability.

Who are water-resistance rowing machines suitable for?

• Athletes who want the most natural rowing feel and prefer a smooth stroke without dead spots.
• Living room and home gym users who also value the appearance of the machine and want to place it as a design object in the home.
• Advanced athletes and rowing enthusiasts who want to continue training at the same level in the winter months without having to row on the water.
• Athletes who want to lose weight thanks to the effective full-body activation and high calorie burn of rowing training.
• Athletes in rehabilitation who want to train low-impact and in a controlled manner. Always consult your physiotherapist first.
• Everyone who wants the best rowing experience at home, regardless of level.

Need help with your choice?

Would you like to buy a water-resistance rowing machine but are not yet sure which one best suits your needs? We will be happy to help you. You can reach our rowing machine specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about water-resistance rowing machines

What is the difference between a water-resistance and a magnetically braked rowing machine?

With a water-resistance rowing machine the resistance automatically adjusts to your effort through water resistance. Rowing harder automatically gives more resistance. With a magnetically braked rowing machine you set the resistance manually via a display or dial, regardless of your effort. Water resistance gives a more natural and smooth rowing feel, magnetic resistance is quieter and offers more precise resistance setting.

How do I maintain the water tank of my water-resistance rowing machine?

Add chlorine tablets to the water in the tank every 3 to 4 months to prevent algae and bacterial growth. Also regularly check whether the water level is correct. Always consult the maintenance protocol of your specific model for exact instructions. Good maintenance greatly extends the lifespan of the machine.

Does a water-resistance rowing machine make a lot of noise?

Water-resistance rowing machines produce a characteristic, calming splashing water sound that many athletes experience as pleasant and motivating. The noise level is generally lower than air resistance rowing machines but higher than magnetic rowing machines. For apartment residents or those who do not want to disturb others, the water sound is something to consider.

Can I adjust the resistance on a water-resistance rowing machine?

Yes, by adjusting the water level in the tank. More water gives more basic resistance, less water less. Besides the water level, the resistance also automatically scales with your rowing power. The harder you row, the more resistance you experience.

Why does a water-resistance rowing machine have no dead spot?

With an air rower, the fan has to get going again after each stroke, giving a brief moment of less resistance. With a water-resistance rower, the paddles move through water, which as a fluid immediately provides resistance as soon as you start pulling. No start-up time is needed, resulting in a smooth, continuous rowing stroke without interruption.

What are the best brands of water-resistance rowing machines?

The best-known and most appreciated brands are WaterRower, First Degree Fitness and Finnlo. WaterRower is known for its beautiful wooden frames and excellent rowing experience. First Degree Fitness offers robust models with excellent value for money. Finnlo and Kettler are well-known European brands that deliver solid water-resistance rowing machines for home use.