Stroke Power (Peak Watts)
What is Stroke Power (Peak Watts)?
Stroke power is the watts generated during a single drive phase. The PM5 calculates instantaneous power from the rate of flywheel acceleration during the drive. The display can show this as instantaneous watts (updating each stroke), average watts (running average), or on the force curve as the area under the curve. Peak single-stroke power for elite male rowers exceeds 1000W; recreational rowers typically generate 150-400W per stroke. Average watts over a workout are lower because they account for the powerless recovery phase. Stroke power is the most direct measure of muscular output and is the primary input for split time calculation. Improving stroke power through technique and strength is the most direct path to faster splits.
How Watta Uses Stroke Power (Peak Watts)
Watta extracts average watts from the PM5 display and uses it as the primary input for the Work Output component of the Effort Score (35% of total). Higher average watts at the same body weight produce higher Work Output scores.
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.
