THE INDOOR ROWER
THE Indoor rower
Welcome to the indoor rower, a page dedicated to indoor rowing news, results, nutrition, training, coaching tips and latest information.
Whether you’re starting a health and fitness journey, competing at local races or racing on the world stage, the indoor rower will help you on your journey of health, fitness, endurance, strength, speed and knowledge on the rowing machine.
From focussing on technique to nutrition, planning of race meals, tapering, periodisation, workouts and any other topics involving indoor rowing, our aim is to get you into the fastest part of the stream.
BRIEF INDOOR ROWING HISTORY
The history of the modern day commercial rowing machine started in the 1970s with the Gjessing-Nilson ergometer from Norway. The Gjessing used a friction brake mechanism with industrial strapping applied over the broad rim of the flywheel. Weights hanging from the strap ensured that an adjustable and predictable friction could be calculated.
The Concept 2 ergometer (erg or ergo). was introduced in 1981 by the Dreissigacker brothers. The machine was created for rowers in the north-east of the United States during the frozen winter months when lakes and rivers were inaccessible. This revolutionised training for water rowing.
And so the machine’s capability of accurate measurement combined with easy transportability spawned the sport of competitive indoor rowing.
The first indoor rowing competition was held in Cambridge, Massachusetts USA in February 1982 with participation of 96 on-water rowers who called themselves the “Charles River All Star Has-Beens”, hence the acronym, “CRASH-B“.

TRAINING PROGRAMMES

the indoor rower podcast

video hub
about your host
With over three decades in elite fitness and performance coaching and a Commonwealth multi-medallist, double Henley Royal Regatta winner and former World Indoor Rowing Champion, Tony Larkman brings science-backed training, hands-on experience and a passion for helping others reach their goals.
As both a certified personal trainer and rowing specialist at clubs such as Molesey Boat Club, Thames Rowing Club and Tideway Scullers, Tony bridges the gap between physical performance and last wellbeing – focussing on precision, balance and consistent progress.

latest news

Rowing for Longevity: How to Train Smart for Health and Performance
Rowing for longevity means training smart, not just hard. Learn how Zone 2 and Zone 5 rowing, strength work, recovery, nutrition, and lifestyle choices protect your heart and support lifelong performance.

Australian Indoor Rowing Championships 2025 – Row Anywhere, Race Together
The Australian Indoor Rowing Championships return 25 Oct – 2 Nov 2025. Compete virtually or in-person, chase your PB and join a nationwide leaderboard challenge.

English Indoor Rowing Championships 2025 – Bolton Arena
After a four-year break, the English Indoor Rowing Championships return on 6 September 2025 at Bolton Arena, alongside the legendary Rainhill Trials. Open to all levels, with sprints, endurance, and team relay races — don’t miss this celebration of indoor rowing.

British Rowing Indoor Championships 2025 – Entries Now Open!
BRIC25 entries now open

2025 World Rowing Indoor Virtual Series
Take part in the 2025 World Rowing Indoor Virtual Series



