1. What is the Concept2 Pace Formula?

The Concept2 Pace Formula calculates your rowing pace (time per 500 meters) based on the power output (watts) you're generating. It's used by Concept2 rowing machines to display your pace in real-time during workouts.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Concept2 pace formula:

Where:

• \( Watts \) — Power output in watts
• \( Pace \) — Time in seconds per 500 meters

Explanation: The formula shows the cubic relationship between power and speed in rowing - doubling your power doesn't halve your time due to water resistance.

3. Importance of Pace Calculation

Details: Knowing your pace helps you maintain consistent effort during workouts, set appropriate training targets, and compare performance across different sessions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your power output in watts. The calculator will show your predicted 500m split time in minutes:seconds format.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the relationship between watts and pace not linear?
A: Water resistance increases with the cube of speed, so going faster requires disproportionately more power.

Q2: What's a good watts-to-pace ratio?
A: For reference, 100W ≈ 2:30/500m, 200W ≈ 2:00/500m, 300W ≈ 1:45/500m for average rowers.

Q3: Does this work for other rowing machines?
A: The formula is specific to Concept2's dynamic resistance system. Other machines may use different calculations.

Q4: Why does my actual pace sometimes differ?
A: Technique, stroke rate, and environmental factors can affect the watts-to-pace relationship in real-world conditions.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It matches Concept2's internal calculations exactly, but individual results may vary based on rowing style.