Rowing Performance Testing
What is Rowing Performance Testing?
Performance testing in rowing provides objective benchmarks for fitness. The gold standard is the 2K time trial — a maximal effort over 2000 metres that tests both aerobic and anaerobic capacity. Other common tests: 5K (more aerobically demanding), 6K (used by many university programmes), 30-minute distance test (pure aerobic benchmark), and 1-minute power test (anaerobic peak power). Best practices for performance testing: test under consistent conditions (same warm-up, time of day, hydration, rest), allow 48-72 hours of rest before a test, test every 6-8 weeks during base phase and 4-6 weeks during build phase, and record all conditions alongside the result. Performance tests should be planned into the training programme, not done spontaneously. Pre-test nutrition and hydration significantly affect results.
How Watta Uses Rowing Performance Testing
Watta captures every dimension of your performance tests: not just the final time, but pacing strategy, heart rate response, power distribution, and overall Effort Score. Comparing these metrics across tests reveals whether you are getting fitter, not just faster.
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.
