If you’ve spent time in a gym, you’ve probably used or seen a rowing machine. But have you ever wondered why is a rowing machine called an erg? The answer is more interesting than you might think.
It’s not just a brand name or a random term. That short, punchy word has a specific meaning and a history tied to science and fitness. Understanding it can even change how you approach your workouts.
This article explains the origin of the term and why it matters for your training. Let’s look at the story behind the machine.
Why Is A Rowing Machine Called An Erg
The simple answer is that “erg” is short for “ergometer.” An ergometer is any device that measures work output. In physics, work is defined as force applied over a distance.
So, a rowing ergometer is a machine that measures the work you do while simulating the rowing motion. It quantifies your effort in precise terms. This makes it a powerful tool for tracking progress.
The nickname “erg” became common because it’s much easier to say. It stuck in the fitness world, especially among rowers. Now, it’s the universal term for the indoor rowing machine.
The Scientific Roots of “Ergometer”
To really get it, we need to break down the science. The word comes from Greek: “ergon” means work, and “metron” means measure. Literally, a “work measurer.”
Early ergometers were used in labs to study human physiology. They helped scientists understand energy expenditure and cardiovascular health. These weren’t fitness machines; they were research tools.
The concept was applied to rowing because the sport values measurable power. Coaches needed a way to test athletes off the water. The rowing ergometer provided an objective standard for performance.
A Brief History of the Rowing Ergometer
The journey from simple machine to modern “erg” is fascinating. It didn’t start as the sleek device we know today.
– The Early 1900s: The first devices were primitive. Some used a flywheel placed in water, others used mechanical brakes. They were cumbersome and not very accurate.
– The 1950s-60s: The Gjessing-Nilson ergometer was developed in Norway. It used a mechanical brake and was a step forward. It was used for testing but was still not ideal for training.
– The 1980s Revolution: The game changed with the Concept2 Model A, invented by the Dreissigacker brothers. These were competitive rowers and engineers. They created a machine with a wind-resistance flywheel and a digital performance monitor. This allowed for accurate, comparable measurements of work. Suddenly, everyone could call there machine an accurate “erg.”
The Concept2 monitor, often called the PM, is key. It displays your power output in watts, your pace, and crucially, it calculates calories burned based on work done. This turned the machine from a simulator into a true ergometer.
Why the Distinction Matters for Your Workouts
Knowing it’s an ergometer isn’t just trivia. It changes how you should think about your workout. You’re not just moving; you’re producing measurable work.
This means your performance is quantifiable. You can set goals based on data, not just feel. You can track small improvements over time with real numbers.
Here’s how to use your machine like a true ergometer:
1. Focus on the Monitor: Pay attention to your split time (time per 500 meters) and watts. These are direct measures of your power output.
2. Use Consistent Settings: For accurate comparisons, use the same drag factor or damper setting each time. Don’t just crank it to 10.
3. Perform Benchmark Tests: Standard tests, like a 2000-meter row, give you a fitness baseline. You can retest monthly to measure progress.
4. Understand Stroke Rate vs. Power: A higher stroke rate doesn’t always mean more work. The monitor shows the actual power (watts) of each stroke.
Common Mistakes People Make on the Erg
Because they don’t understand it’s a measuring tool, people often train inefficiently. Here are a few common errors:
– Rushing the Stroke: Pulling too fast with the arms first wastes energy. The monitor will show low watts for a high heart rate.
– Ignoring the Damper Setting: Setting the damper too high is like driving a car in first gear on the highway. It feels hard but doesn’t produce the best speed or power output. A lower setting (often 3-5) is usually better.
– Only Watching Calories: The calorie count on an erg is an estimate based on work. It’s less precise for cross-user comparison than split time or watts.
Erg vs. Rowing Machine: Is There a Difference?
In casual conversation, the terms are used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle technical difference.
A “rowing machine” is the broader category. It includes any machine that mimics rowing, even simple ones with no electronics. An “erg” specifically implies a machine that measures work output accurately.
Today, most quality indoor rowers are ergometers. So when you say “erg,” you’re highlighting its function as a performance-measuring tool. It’s the preferred term in the rowing community.
Choosing the Right Erg for Your Home Gym
If you’re looking to buy one, focus on machines that function as true ergometers. Here’s what to look for:
– Accurate Performance Monitor: It should display split time, watts, and stroke rate. Concept2 is the gold standard here.
– Consistent Resistance: The feel should be smooth and consistent, allowing for repeatable measurements.
– Durability: It should withstand high-intensity workouts over many years.
– Community & Data: Many ergs allow you to log workouts online and compare with others. This is a core part of the experience.
Remember, your paying for the measurement capability as much as the hardware. A cheaper machine might not provide reliable data, making progress harder to track.
Incorporating the Erg into Your Fitness Routine
The erg is a fantastic full-body workout. Here’s a simple weekly plan to get started:
– Monday (Technique Focus): 20 minutes of steady rowing. Concentrate on the sequence: legs, core, arms on the drive; then reverse on the recovery. Keep your stroke rate low (18-22 strokes per minute).
– Wednesday (Interval Training): This builds power. Try 8 rounds of: 500 meters of hard rowing, followed by 1 minute of rest. Watch your split time try to keep it consistent.
– Friday (Endurance Session): A longer, steady piece. Row for 30-40 minutes at a conversational pace. This builds aerobic capacity.
Always start with a dynamic warm-up and end with stretching. Proper form is critical to avoid injury and ensure your measured work is accurate.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: What does “erg” stand for in fitness?
A: It’s short for ergometer, a device that measures work. In fitness, it specifically refers to indoor rowing machines that provide detailed performance data.
Q: Are all rowing machines considered ergs?
A: Not technically. Only those with accurate work-measurement capabilities are true ergometers. However, the term is now widely used for most indoor rowers.
Q: Why do rowers use the erg so much for training?
A: It provides objective, comparable data on an athlete’s power and fitness, which is essential for training when not on the water. It perfectly simulates the motion and demand of rowing.
Q: What’s the benefit of knowing my wattage on the machine?
A: Watts are a direct measure of your power output. Tracking watts helps you train at specific intensity zones and see real strength gains over time, more precisely than just watching distance.
Q: Is the calorie count on an erg accurate?
A: It’s a very good estimate based on the mechanical work you perform. It’s more accurate for cardio than machines that just guess based on heart rate or averages. But individual metabolism still plays a role.
Understanding why is a rowing machine called an erg gives you a new perspective. You’re not just exercising; you’re conducting a personal experiment in output and efficiency. You can see your progress in clear, numerical terms.
This knowledge empowers you to train smarter. Use the data, respect the machine’s purpose, and you’ll find your workouts become more focused and effective. The erg is a powerful coach—it gives you immediate, honest feedback on every single stroke you take.