Distance per Stroke (DPS)

Distance per Stroke (DPS): Distance per stroke is the number of metres the erg records per stroke, a key indicator of rowing efficiency that typically ranges from 8-12 metres on the erg.

What is Distance per Stroke (DPS)?

Distance per stroke (DPS) measures how many metres are recorded by the PM5 for each complete rowing stroke. It is calculated as: DPS = Distance / Stroke Count. Higher DPS indicates more power per stroke — the rower is moving the flywheel more with each drive. Typical DPS values on the erg: beginners 6-8m, intermediate 8-10m, competitive 10-12m, elite 12-14m. DPS depends on the interaction between power output and stroke rate. At a fixed pace, lower stroke rates produce higher DPS (more power per stroke). DPS is a useful efficiency metric: if your DPS increases at the same heart rate, you are becoming a more efficient rower.

How Watta Uses Distance per Stroke (DPS)

Watta captures stroke rate and distance data, from which distance per stroke can be derived. The Economy component of the Effort Score (10% weight) uses the watts-per-stroke metric, which is closely related to DPS — rewarding efficient power production.

Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Content

Stroke RateStroke rate (also called strokes per minute or SPM) is the number of complete rowing strokes performed in one minute on an ergometer.Watts (Rowing)Watts in rowing measure the power output on an ergometer, calculated from the pace using the Concept2 formula: Watts = 2.80 / pace³.Force CurveThe force curve is a graph displayed on the PM5 monitor showing the force applied to the erg handle throughout each stroke, used to analyse rowing technique.Effort Score CalculatorErg Technique GuideHow to Improve Your 2K TimeFor Competitive RowersFor Rowing Coaches
Get Started

Every erg counts.

Download Watta and start turning your erg sessions into data-driven training.

Download on the App Store