Why do rowers fear the erg?

This machine has been given many names. The most widely used brand is Concept 2.  The ergometer; Why do rowers fear and hate the ergo? Some call it a torture machine, or the machine from hell.  Why all these negative connotations?

You’ll say ‘You’re crazy, how can you even question that?’.  Well the reason I question these negative connotations are because it causes rowers to become fearful of the erg and simply detest using it to workout.  There are a lot of other things in life which do hurt and are painful, so why should the erg be hated on? 

The negative mindset is a real hindrance to your fitness and performance levels on the erg.  The mind is so much more powerful that the body.  When the mind already feels defeated before a workout, how can you possibly perform well?  The simple answer is you won’t.  I hear so many people complain about this erg and that erg, and why we have to erg so much.  Once again, this negativity sets you back, and puts you behind your competitors.

The erg is a fantastic tool which can be used to great effect.  Every time you prepare for a session, drop the hate, and think of all the positive things you can gain out of this.  By preparing your mindset and constantly thinking positively, you will be surprised by how much less it hurts your body and mind.  The more scared you are of the erg, the more it will hurt you, and the less you will achieve. 

I challenge you to treat every session on the ergo as a chance for you to prove your fitness and see how hard you can go.  Don’t wallow in self pity, but instead rise to the challenge, set yourself a goal to achieve and go out there and do it.  Self talk and self encouragement are really positive tools to obtaining a strong mindset before and during an ergo workout.  Go in there with 100% confidence and know you are fully capable to achieving your target split.  If you set out a plan, don’t back off or back out.  The key is to controlling the mind before and during the piece and always staying positive. Sure it takes time and practice, but don’t hate the erg. Love it. Yes I said LOVE THE ERG !  DO you want to make the national team?  Well I love to inform you that the 2k and 6k are two staple tests to be performed as part of selection.  Go in there with the mindset to attack the piece; don’t let it attack you. 

Adam Kreek scoring 18:59 min for his 6000m ergo test. Incredible amount of positive energy emanating from the crew. What an achievement.

I’ve heard people say the erg always wins. I disagree.  You can beat the erg every time.  It only wins if it’s defeated your mind before you start.