1. What is the Concept 2 Pace to Watts Formula?

The Concept 2 formula converts rowing pace (time per 500 meters) to power output in watts. This is the official formula used by Concept 2 rowing machines to calculate power from your split time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Concept 2 formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Power output in watts
• \( P \) — Pace in seconds per 500 meters
• 2.8 — Constant factor in the formula

Explanation: The formula shows the cubic relationship between pace and power - small changes in pace result in large changes in power output.

3. Importance of Power Calculation in Rowing

Details: Power output is a key metric in rowing performance. It allows for precise training intensity measurement and comparison between rowers of different sizes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your 500m split time in seconds (e.g., 120 for 2:00/500m). The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is there a cubic relationship between pace and power?
A: Power increases with the cube of velocity because water resistance increases exponentially with speed.

Q2: What are typical wattage values for rowers?
A: Casual rowers might maintain 100-200W, competitive rowers 300-400W, and elite rowers can exceed 500W for short bursts.

Q3: How does this compare to actual on-water rowing?
A: The Concept 2 formula approximates on-water physics but doesn't account for factors like wind or current.

Q4: Can I use this for other rowing machines?
A: This formula is specific to Concept 2 machines. Other brands may use different calculations.

Q5: Why is power important in rowing training?
A: Power allows precise training zones and objective performance tracking, especially useful for interval training.