Watts and Splits: Training Tools for the Concept2 Ergometer Devotee
For the indoor rower who tracks 2k splits, does pieces on the erg, and wants to do it with better data and form
Garmin HRM-Pro Plus Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap
Optical wrist heart rate monitors give unreliable readings during rowing because arm movement and wrist tension create artifact — a chest strap with electrode contact is the only accurate option for erg training. Garmin's HRM-Pro Plus pairs via ANT+ and Bluetooth simultaneously, syncing to both the Concept2 PM5 monitor and a training app simultaneously.
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Dark Horse Rowing: Complete Indoor Rowing Training Program by Cameron Nichol
Nichol's periodized training program is built around the Concept2 PM5 data and covers the 10-week training structure that most erg athletes use to peak for a 2k test. The workout descriptions include target split ranges and rate prescriptions, which is the format that translates directly to the PM5 programming screen.
Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap
The Polar H10 is the chest strap that most exercise physiology research uses as a reference device — its accuracy during high-intensity anaerobic intervals, which is where erg training lives, has been independently validated. The H10 also records ECG-quality data locally when not paired, which is useful for reviewing heart rate variability trends between training sessions.
Concept2 Ergometer Slide Rails (Pair) for Rowing Machine
Concept2 slide rails let two ergs be linked so the drive and recovery motion are coupled between machines — a training tool that removes the ability to brace against the foot stretcher and forces engagement of leg drive timing. It's also the setup that pairs rowers for synchronized training, which competitive rowing clubs use for boat timing work.
Hydrow Ergatta Foam Rowing Machine Seat Pad
The Concept2 seat is shaped for athletic rowing position but extended sessions develop contact point pressure on sitting bones — a firm foam pad that maintains the hip-angle geometry of the erg seat without the lateral slide that softer cushions create. The wrong pad raises seat height and changes drive geometry, which is why erg-specific foam density matters.
Core Prodigy Rowing Training Log Workout Notebook
A structured training log with columns for split, stroke rate, wattage, and heart rate for each piece, plus a weekly periodization summary section. PM5 data exports to ErgData and Concept2 logbook, but a paper log that tracks subjective feel and training load alongside numbers is the tool coaches and serious self-coached rowers use to spot overtraining patterns.
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