Types of Ergometers

By the Watta Team · Updated

Types of Ergometers: Ergometers (ergs) are indoor exercise machines that simulate rowing, skiing, or cycling motions, with the main types being air-resistance, water-resistance, magnetic, and hydraulic models.

What is Types of Ergometers?

The term ergometer covers several types of indoor training machines. Air-resistance ergometers (like the Concept2 RowErg) use a fan flywheel where resistance increases with effort — they are the global standard for rowing performance measurement. Water-resistance ergometers (like the WaterRower) use a paddle in a water tank, providing a quieter, natural-feeling stroke. Magnetic-resistance ergometers use electromagnets for smooth, adjustable resistance and are common in commercial gym settings. Hydraulic ergometers use piston cylinders and are typically the most affordable but least realistic in feel. Beyond rowing, the term also covers ski ergometers (Concept2 SkiErg) and bike ergometers (Concept2 BikeErg), which simulate cross-country skiing and cycling respectively.

How Watta Uses Types of Ergometers

Watta supports the three Concept2 ergometer types: RowErg, SkiErg, and BikeErg. When logging a workout, users select their machine type, and the Effort Score algorithm accounts for the different physiological demands of each modality. The AI OCR is trained to read the PM5 monitor used across all three Concept2 machines.

Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of ergometer is best?
For serious rowing training and performance tracking, air-resistance ergometers (particularly Concept2) are the gold standard. Their metrics are universally comparable and used in all official competitions. Water-resistance ergs are excellent for home use where noise is a concern.
Does Watta work with all ergometer types?
Watta works with Concept2 ergometers — RowErg, SkiErg, and BikeErg — all of which use the PM5 monitor. It does not currently support WaterRower, magnetic, hydraulic, or other brand ergometers.
What is the difference between air and water resistance?
Air-resistance ergs (Concept2) use a fan flywheel and produce the characteristic erg sound. Water-resistance ergs (WaterRower) use a paddle in a water tank and are significantly quieter. The resistance curves differ, making metrics between the two types not directly comparable.

Related Content

Concept2 RowErgThe Concept2 RowErg is the industry-standard air-resistance indoor rowing machine used by Olympic teams, universities, CrossFit boxes, and home gyms worldwide.Concept2 SkiErgThe Concept2 SkiErg is a wall-mounted or floor-standing air resistance machine that simulates the double-pole motion of cross-country skiing.Concept2 BikeErgThe Concept2 BikeErg is a stationary bicycle using the same air resistance flywheel system as the RowErg, designed for cycling training and cross-training.FlywheelThe flywheel is the spinning air resistance mechanism inside a Concept2 ergometer that generates resistance during the drive phase of the rowing stroke.WaterRowerWaterRower is a rowing ergometer brand that uses a water-filled flywheel tank to create natural, variable resistance that simulates the feel of rowing on water.Erg (Ergometer)An erg (short for ergometer) is a rowing machine that measures work output, with the Concept2 being the standard used worldwide for training and testing.Rowing Machine Noise LevelRowing machine noise level varies by resistance type, with air-resistance ergs (Concept2) typically measuring 70-80 dB, water-resistance ergs around 55-65 dB, and magnetic ergs at 40-55 dB.Split to Watts ConverterRowing for BeginnersSkiErg Workout GuideFor BeginnersFor Home GymFor Concept2 UsersFor BikeErg Users
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