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| A row of Concept2 "Model C" ergometers |
Ergometer rowing machines (colloquially
ergs or
ergo)
simulate the rowing action and provide a means of training on land when
waterborne training is restricted, and of measuring rowing fitness.
Ergometers do not simulate the lateral balance challenges, the exact
resistance of water, or the exact motions of true rowing including the
sweep of the oar handles. For that reason ergometer scores are generally
not used as the sole selection criterion for crews, and technique
training is limited to the basic body position and movements. However,
this action can still allow a comparable workout to those experienced on
the water.
Indoor rowing has become popular as a sport in its own right with
numerous indoor competitions (and the annual World Championship CRASH-B Sprints in Boston) during the winter off-season.
