| Split | Watts | Cal/hr | Km/h |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calculate a result to see table | |||
How much time is saved over 2000m if you drop 1s/split?
- seconds total.
How to use this calculator
This tool helps rowers, skiers, and cyclists plan their training on Concept2 machines (RowErg, SkiErg, and BikeErg). It uses the official Concept2 formulas to convert between your pace, distance, and time.
- Choose your machine: Select RowErg/SkiErg (500m split) or BikeErg (1000m split).
- Enter two values: Input any two knowns (e.g., Distance 2000m and Time 7:00).
- Get instant results: The calculator automatically fills in your Split (pace), plus your average Watts, Calories/hr, and Speed.
What the results mean
Split (Pace)
Your split time is the standard measure of speed in indoor rowing. For the RowErg and SkiErg, it represents the time it takes to travel 500 metres. For the BikeErg, it is per 1000 metres. A lower split means you are going faster.
Watts (Power)
Watts measure the mechanical power you are producing with every stroke. Unlike split time, watts scale linearly with your effort. This metric is useful for precise interval training and comparing performance across different athlete weights.
Calories per Hour
This is the rate at which you are burning energy. The Concept2 Performance Monitor (PM5) calculates this based on your power output (watts) plus a base metabolic rate of 300 cal/hour. This standard formula allows you to track total energy expenditure during steady state or high-intensity workouts.
Formulas used
This calculator uses the physics-based relationship between power and speed defined by Concept2:
- Watts to Pace: Power (watts) = 2.8 / (pace in seconds per metre)³.
- Pace to Watts: Pace = ³√(2.8 / watts).
- Calories: Cal/hr = 300 + (4 × Watts × 0.8604).
Frequently Asked Questions
Enter "2000" in the Distance field and your target time (e.g., "7:00") in the Time field. The calculator will automatically display the required 500m split you need to hold to achieve that time.
This varies widely by age, weight, and fitness. A competitive split for a heavy-weight male might be under 1:35/500m for 2k, while a beginner might row at 2:15/500m. The key is to improve your own average pace over time using consistent training.
Drag factor measures air resistance. For a realistic on-water feel, most rowers set the drag factor between 110 and 130 (usually damper setting 3-5). High damper settings do not necessarily mean more work; they act like a heavier gear on a bike, which can lead to fatigue or injury if sustained incorrectly.
Concept2 sets the BikeErg split to 1000m to better reflect cycling speeds, which are roughly double that of rowing speeds for similar effort levels. However, the watts calculation remains consistent across all Concept2 ergs.
The standard result shown here matches the PM5 monitor, which assumes a 175lb (79.5kg) individual. Heavier athletes may burn slightly more calories due to a higher basal metabolic rate, but the mechanical work (watts) remains the most accurate measure of performance on the machine.
This calculator uses the specialized formula for the Concept2 Indoor Rower. On-water speeds are affected by wind, current, boat class, and technique efficiency, making them generally slower than the ergometer for the same physical effort.