Decathlon Domyos Woodrower - Smart rowing bench without a socket

The smart rowing machine from Decathlon makes a very good impression in the test. The device is extremely stable, works quietly and impresses with its quick accessibility. Fast workouts can be easily integrated into everyday life and are fun. Thanks to the app connection with virtual worlds and competitions, even long workouts don't get boring.

The collection of training data is uncomplicated, as is synchronization between different apps. All the better that the Decathlon rowing machine can be folded up to save space and does not require a power socket. However, great functionality and high-quality workmanship also come at a price. 1000 euros are due for the Domyos Woodrower.

The Domyos Woodrower rowing bench is an own-brand device from the sporting goods manufacturer Decathlon. It is therefore available exclusively from Decathlon, either in a store or in the online store.

The Woodrower is only available in one size, one configuration and one color. The RRP is 1000 euros. At the time of testing, the device is available from Decathlon.

The name of the test device is rather unwieldy: Domyos 3-in-1 rowing machine Bench Connected Selfpowered Woodrower. The test device is a rowing machine that is largely made of wood, hence the name Woodrower. No power socket is required for operation, the device generates the required energy itself: Self-powered.

The rowing machine can be connected to a smartphone, tablet or external sensors for heart rate measurement via Bluetooth. The data can be processed on the other devices, and gamification of the training is also possible: Connected. The Woodrower can also be folded up and used as a training bench with footrest: 3-in-1, although the 3 remains a question mark.

Decathlon gives a 5-year guarantee on the device, and spare parts are also said to be available for 10 years.

The Domyos rowing bench is delivered by a forwarding agent. When moving the package for the first time, it becomes clear that it has its weight. With packaging, almost 70 kg have to be moved. The packaging is very well done. Solid molded parts hold the rowing bench in position and protect it from scratches.

Fortunately, the device does not have to be lifted out of the box, which can be opened all the way around. The Woodrower must be fully assembled on site. The instructions are illustrated, material and tools are included. A video instruction is to be started via QR code, but the page is not available at the time of testing.

Assembly takes around 30 minutes and the Woodrower makes a very high-quality impression. The accuracy of fit is excellent and there are no unpleasant odors. The box contains spare ball bearings for the seat in case they need to be replaced later.

A special feature of the Domyos Woodrower is its folding function. When folded, the device takes up very little space and serves as a bench. An extendable support is designed to hold the feet during abdominal muscle training. According to Decathlon, there is a 9 kg flywheel inside. The resistance is generated electrically, with a choice of 15 levels.

The power for the resistance, the display and the wireless connection is generated by the movement on the rowing machine. After two to three strokes, the integrated display starts working. There is a separate holder and fuse for smartphones or tablets.

The Woodrower can only be adjusted on the footrest. The position of the footrests can be adjusted in height. The feet are secured with straps and quick-release fasteners. Safety catches prevent accidental folding or unfolding of the device.

Two apps are listed on the protective film of the display, and the Woodrower is compatible with both. Decathlon has its own app "E-Connected" and Kinomap. In the test, the Woodrower was found and connected by the smartphone without any problems - provided that enough power was produced beforehand.

Training data can be collected and analyzed via the apps. Length of training, number of strokes, distance in meters, rowing strokes per minute, time over 500 meters and calories burned. These values are also shown on the display, without any app connection. However, they are saved in the app and synchronized with Google Health Connect, for example, if desired.

Virtual routes can be rowed via Kinomap or EXR Game. It is also possible to explore bodies of water and compete with other users.

Training on the Domyos Woodrower requires no lead time. Open it up, strap your feet in and you're ready to go. The training resistance is set by turning the display, and the training information runs automatically through the easy-to-read TFT display, even without an app. Even during hard training sessions, the device remains absolutely stable, nothing wobbles or twists. The noise level is also very low. Other people in the home are not disturbed.

The USB port does not really charge a connected device, but it at least maintains the charge level. After 10 minutes of training, a connected Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra shows one percent more. During the test period, the Woodrower was used by all family members and proved to be completely accessible. The positive aspect is that nothing needs to be adjusted, so even children can train safely.

Thanks to the simple operation, the inhibition threshold for training in between is lowered. This means that short training sessions can be easily integrated into an office day. The ability to explore lakes and cities in apps keeps rowing exciting, and virtual competitions are also great fun. It's great that the Woodrower is compatible with various programs. Another positive aspect is that an app is not necessary for training.