Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine
The Concept2 RowErg is the rowing machine used at every Olympic training facility and competitive rowing club worldwide, now available for home gyms at a price that reflects its commercial-grade build.
- PM5 monitor tracks split times, watts, strokes per minute, and calories with competition-grade accuracy
- Air resistance scales automatically with rowing intensity for a natural feel
- Separates into two pieces for storage under a bed or in a closet
Best For / Not For
Best for
- Buyers serious about rowing as a structured training discipline who need accurate performance metrics
- CrossFit athletes and competitive rowers who train at home between facility sessions
Not for
- Apartment dwellers sensitive to the fan noise of air resistance machines
- Buyers who only want light cardio and do not need performance data
Key Details
Why the PM5 Monitor Matters
The Concept2 PM5 monitor measures power output in watts in addition to standard metrics like calories and time. Watts are the only objective measure of rowing performance because they account for both pace and stroke rate simultaneously. Training to a watts target produces more consistent performance adaptation than training to a calorie or heart-rate target. This is why every competitive rowing program uses Concept2 machines: the data is comparable across machines worldwide.
The Concept2 online logbook allows you to record every workout and compare your performance against a global rankings database. If you ever want to know how your 2000-meter pace compares to others your age, the logbook provides a direct answer. For buyers who are performance-motivated, this accountability layer is a meaningful training tool.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- PM5 monitor is the most accurate and feature-complete rowing monitor available
- Air resistance feel is the closest to on-water rowing of any gym machine
- Durable commercial-grade build that lasts decades with minimal maintenance
Cons
- Air resistance creates noise from the fan; inappropriate for quiet apartment environments
- Premium price relative to magnetic resistance machines with equivalent health benefits for casual use
Bottom Line
Buy the Concept2 RowErg if you are serious about rowing training and need accurate performance data. The PM5 monitor and air resistance are the standard by which every other rowing machine is measured.
Check current price on Amazon
