Average Watts

What is Average Watts?

Average watts represent the mean mechanical power produced over the duration of a rowing session or interval. On Concept2 ergometers, this figure is shown on the PM5 summary screen after completing a workout. Average watts are a more honest measure of effort than average split time because watts scale linearly with energy expenditure, whereas split time has a cubic relationship with power. For example, a workout averaging 200 watts demands the same total energy per second regardless of whether that came from steady pacing or a combination of hard and easy strokes. Average watts are particularly useful for comparing efforts across different distances and durations — a 5K at 180W and a 30-minute piece at 180W represent identical average intensities even though the distance covered differs. When combined with body weight, average watts per kilogram provides a size-independent fitness metric.

Formula

How Watta Uses Average Watts

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.