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What resistance level should I train on a concept 2 rower? How to find my Concept 2 drag factor? Is there a booklet?
Concept2 Resistance Drag Factor
Concept 2 ergos have a range of resistance from 1 to 10 (Dampers). Info Here:
Concept 2 Drag factor
My understanding of the rowing rule of thumb is that women row on resistance 4 and men on 5. Juniors are on a lower resistance.
BUT the resistance is not the absolute measure – it’s the “Drag Factor” which is calculated by the monitor and so the actual number can vary depending on whether the machine has been serviced and is new or older.
A helpful information by Concept2 which may help you decide which is the best setting for your needs
C2 Drag Factor for Children
Year 7 – below 100 to 100 (girls & boys) (use the speed strap to go below 100)
Of course, the real question rowers want answered is what is the magic number for drag? The answer is there is no magic number. It’s different for everyone. Where you set your drag factor will depend on your own size, weight and conditioning level, as well as the size boat you row.
That said, you should set the drag so the feeling of your drive on the rowing machine is as close to possible as your experience on the water. In general, scullers will need a higher drag due to the slower leg speed on the drive in a single. Those who row in an eight will have a lower drag, reflecting the faster drive speed.
There is specific advice for Masters Rowers C2 Drag Factors
To give masters specific rowers parameters for setting the drag factor, I asked various masters and coaches to share their experiences. Here’s what I learned. A 45+ male lightweight rower told me he rows with a drag of 115-120. He used to row around 130, but as he ages, he’s discovered that he has to watch the stress he puts on his back. A 35+ lightweight male told me he likes to row with low resistance of 100 because it feels more like being on the water and is easier on his back. A 60+ lightweight woman rows between 100 and 110, and a 50+ heavyweight woman rows at 120.
If you found this article helpful – it’s a good example of how Rowperfect helps answer your questions.
Hello…first of all i’d like to thank you for your page, it’s nice to find articles by people that know about rowing. I wish you could help me to find the best drag factor. I used to row for my national team as a junior (17-18 years) on January after 4 years of NOT doing sport, I decided to get back to my national team. My first goal is the ergo national championship. I did a test a couple of days ago and did 6:53. If i could go under 6:30 in 3 months time, it would be amazing. I hace donde it before, I know I can do it, but I also need help.
Emilio the usual rule of thumb is drag factor 130 for men, 120 for women and 110 for juniors. If you need coaching help – look at our remote rowing coaching advisors and pick one to coach you, write a program and give you feedback on your video of ergo.
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Hello…first of all i’d like to thank you for your page, it’s nice to find articles by people that know about rowing. I wish you could help me to find the best drag factor. I used to row for my national team as a junior (17-18 years) on January after 4 years of NOT doing sport, I decided to get back to my national team. My first goal is the ergo national championship. I did a test a couple of days ago and did 6:53. If i could go under 6:30 in 3 months time, it would be amazing. I hace donde it before, I know I can do it, but I also need help.
Emilio the usual rule of thumb is drag factor 130 for men, 120 for women and 110 for juniors. If you need coaching help – look at our remote rowing coaching advisors and pick one to coach you, write a program and give you feedback on your video of ergo.