Indoor Rowing is a relatively new sport performed on a rowing machine (ergo), that has traditionally been used to simulate the action of watercraft rowing for the purpose of exercise or rowing training.

The sport of indoor rowing was created in 1981 when Concept2 developed its first rowing machine. Hundreds of indoor rowing races are now held around the world each year, including the World Indoor Rowing Championships.

Most races take place over the Olympic regatta distance of 2000 meters.

The first World Rowing Indoor Championships (WRIC) took place at the Erg Sprints in Alexandria, Virginia, United States on February 17-18, 2018. The distance for all WRIC events is 2000 meters (with additional 1000 meter races for para-rowing categories).

rowing ergometer event rowing ergometer event

Other Rowing Variations

  • Sculling Rowing — a form of rowing in which a person uses oars, one in each hand, to propel a single or double scull rowing boat.
  • Sweep Rowing — each rower has just one oar which is maneuvered maneuverd with both hands to propel the boat.
  • Surfboat Rowing — a team of riders compete using surfboats on a course out and back through the surf.