Calories (Rowing)
What is Calories (Rowing)?
The Concept2 ergometer calculates calories using the formula: Calories/hour = (2.80/pace³) × 4.2. This is based purely on mechanical power output and does not account for individual body weight, fitness level, or actual metabolic cost. The displayed calorie count assumes a standardised "average" person. In reality, a larger person burns more total calories than a smaller person at the same watts. For most people, the Concept2 underestimates actual calories burned because it only counts mechanical work and ignores the metabolic inefficiency of human movement (typically 20-25% mechanical efficiency). For accurate calorie tracking, using heart rate data provides a better estimate.
How Watta Uses Calories (Rowing)
Watta extracts calorie data from your erg screen when displayed. However, the Effort Score algorithm uses watts (power output) directly rather than calories, as watts provide a more accurate representation of physiological work. Heart rate data further refines the effort calculation beyond what calories alone can show.
Further Reading
- Concept2 Training Resources — Official training guides and workout plans from Concept2.
- Concept2 RowErg Specifications — Technical specifications and performance monitor details.
- World Rowing — The international governing body for the sport of rowing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Content
Every erg counts.
Download Watta and start turning your erg sessions into data-driven training.
