Erg Workout Types

By the Watta Team · Updated

Erg Workout Types: Erg workout types include single distance, single time, interval distance, interval time, and just row — each format configurable on the Concept2 PM5.

What is Erg Workout Types?

The Concept2 PM5 supports five main workout types: Single Distance (row a set distance, e.g., 2000m), Single Time (row for a set time, e.g., 30 minutes), Interval Distance (multiple distance pieces with defined rest, e.g., 8 x 500m with 2:00 rest), Interval Time (multiple timed pieces with rest, e.g., 4 x 5:00 with 3:00 rest), and Just Row (open-ended rowing with no set target). Each format stores data differently in PM5 memory. Interval workouts store individual split data for each piece, which is valuable for tracking pacing consistency. Single distance and time workouts store a single summary. Choosing the right workout type and configuring it on the PM5 before rowing ensures clean data capture.

How Watta Uses Erg Workout Types

Watta's AI-powered OCR can read data from all PM5 workout types. For interval workouts, Watta captures the summary screen showing individual interval splits, rest times, and average data — providing richer training analysis than single-piece workouts.

Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Which workout type should I use on the PM5?
Use Single Distance for tests (2K, 5K). Use Single Time for steady state (30-60 minutes). Use Interval Distance for distance-based intervals (8 x 500m). Use Interval Time for time-based intervals (4 x 5:00). Use Just Row for warming up or casual rowing.
How do I set up intervals on the PM5?
On the PM5 home screen: Select Workouts > New Workout > Intervals. Choose Distance or Time. Enter the work piece duration/distance, then the rest duration. Set the number of intervals. Press the row button to start.
Does the PM5 save all my workouts?
The PM5 stores up to 100 recent workouts in internal memory. Older workouts are overwritten. For permanent storage, log your workouts in Watta or the Concept2 Logbook after each session.

Related Content

PM5 MonitorThe PM5 (Performance Monitor 5) is the current-generation display unit on Concept2 ergometers, showing split time, distance, stroke rate, watts, heart rate, and other workout metrics.Interval Training (Rowing)Interval training in rowing involves alternating between high-intensity work periods and rest or low-intensity recovery periods on the ergometer.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 MemoryConcept2 memory is the onboard storage on the PM5 monitor that automatically saves workout data, storing up to 200 workouts that can be reviewed on-screen or transferred via USB or Bluetooth.Erg IntervalsErg intervals are structured rowing workouts alternating between high-intensity work periods and rest or low-intensity recovery periods, designed to develop speed, power, and anaerobic capacity.Rowing Pace CalculatorErg Interval WorkoutsRowing for BeginnersFor Concept2 UsersFor Beginners
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