Rowing Pacing Strategy
What is Rowing Pacing Strategy?
Pacing strategy in rowing determines how effort is distributed across a workout or race. The three main strategies are: even pacing (maintaining the same split throughout), negative splitting (getting faster in the second half), and positive splitting (slowing down — generally undesirable). Research and race data consistently show that even pacing or slight negative splits produce the fastest times. For a 2K test, the optimal strategy is: a slightly fast start (first 200-300m, 1-2 splits faster than target), settle to target pace for the middle 1400m, then kick in the final 300-400m. Common pacing mistakes: starting too fast (the most common error — every second too fast in the first 500m costs roughly 2-3 seconds in the final 500m), inconsistent stroke-to-stroke splits, and failing to commit to a pre-planned pace.
How Watta Uses Rowing Pacing Strategy
Pacing Strategy is one of the four Effort Score components (15% weight). Watta analyses split consistency across your workout segments — even, controlled pacing earns higher Pacing scores, while erratic splits or significant fade indicate poor pacing execution.
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.
