EXR and Concept2: Connecting, Optimizing, and Troubleshooting Your Ergometer

How do I connect EXR to Concept2?

Connecting your EXR application to a Concept2 ergometer is a straightforward process typically accomplished via Bluetooth FTMS, allowing for seamless data transfer and an enhanced interactive training experience across all Concept2 PM5-equipped machines.

Understanding the Core Technology: Concept2 PM5 and Bluetooth FTMS

To effectively connect EXR to your Concept2 machine, it's essential to understand the underlying technology. At the heart of this connection is the Concept2 Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) and Bluetooth Fitness Machine Service (FTMS).

• Concept2 PM5: This is the standard monitor found on all modern Concept2 RowErgs, SkiErgs, and BikeErgs. The PM5 is crucial because it acts as the data hub, collecting metrics like pace, power, stroke rate, and distance. Critically, the PM5 features integrated Bluetooth connectivity.
• Bluetooth FTMS: This is a standardized Bluetooth profile specifically designed for fitness equipment. It allows applications like EXR to wirelessly connect to and receive real-time performance data from compatible fitness machines, including your Concept2 PM5. This ensures accurate and consistent data flow between your ergometer and the virtual training platform.

Prerequisites for Connection

Before attempting to connect, ensure you meet the following requirements for a smooth setup:

• Updated Concept2 PM5 Firmware: Your PM5 must have the latest firmware installed. Concept2 regularly releases updates that improve connectivity and add new features. You can update your PM5 using the Concept2 Utility software on a computer.
• EXR Application: Have the EXR app installed and updated to its latest version on your chosen device (iOS, Android, or Windows).
• Bluetooth-Enabled Device: The device running the EXR app (smartphone, tablet, or computer) must have Bluetooth enabled and functioning correctly.
• Proximity: Ensure your device running EXR is within close range (typically 1-3 meters) of your Concept2 ergometer for a strong and stable Bluetooth signal.
• No Prior Connections: The PM5 can only maintain one active Bluetooth FTMS connection at a time. Ensure no other apps or devices are currently connected to your PM5 before attempting to connect with EXR.

Step-by-Step Connection Guide

Follow these steps to establish a connection between EXR and your Concept2 ergometer:

1. Power On Your Concept2 PM5:

   • Wake up your PM5 by pressing any button or, on a RowErg/SkiErg, by taking a few strokes. On a BikeErg, simply start pedaling.
   • Ensure the PM5 display is active.

2. Access the EXR Application:

   • Open the EXR app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
   • Navigate to the "Connect Device" or "Add Trainer" section within the EXR menu. This is typically found on the main screen or in the settings/profile area.

3. Initiate Device Search in EXR:

   • Within the EXR connection screen, the app will begin searching for nearby compatible Bluetooth FTMS devices.

4. Select Your Concept2 PM5:

   • Your Concept2 PM5 should appear in the list of available devices (e.g., "Concept2 PM5 [Serial Number]").
   • Tap or click on your PM5 to select it.

5. Confirm Connection:

   • Once selected, EXR will attempt to establish a connection.
   • On your Concept2 PM5, a small Bluetooth icon will appear in the top right corner of the display, indicating an active connection.
   • In the EXR app, you should see confirmation of the connection, and real-time performance metrics (e.g., watts, strokes per minute, distance) from your ergometer will begin to display.

Optimizing Your EXR Training Experience

Connecting your Concept2 to EXR unlocks a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your training:

• Data Accuracy: Direct Bluetooth FTMS connection ensures highly accurate, real-time data transfer, which is crucial for effective training and performance analysis.
• Interactive Workouts: EXR leverages your Concept2's data to power immersive virtual environments, gamified challenges, and structured workouts, making each session more engaging.
• Ergometer Compatibility: This connection method works seamlessly across all Concept2 machines equipped with a PM5, including the RowErg, SkiErg, and BikeErg, providing a consistent experience regardless of your chosen modality.
• Structured Training Plans: Utilize EXR's pre-designed training plans that adapt to your performance, providing guided sessions based on your real-time output from the Concept2.

Common Connection Issues and Solutions

While the connection process is generally reliable, you might encounter occasional issues. Here are common problems and their solutions:

• PM5 Not Showing Up in EXR:
  • Solution: Check if Bluetooth is enabled on your device. Ensure your PM5 has the latest firmware. Try restarting both your PM5 (remove and reinsert batteries, or hold down "Menu" and "Change Display" for 10 seconds) and the EXR app.
• "Another App is Connected" Error:
  • Solution: The PM5 can only connect to one app via Bluetooth FTMS at a time. Close any other fitness apps (e.g., ErgData, Kinomap, Zwift) running in the background on your device or other nearby devices that might be trying to connect.
• Connection Drops Intermittently:
  • Solution: Ensure your device is close to the PM5. Minimize wireless interference from other devices (e.g., microwaves, Wi-Fi routers). Check the battery level of your PM5.
• Data Mismatch or Lag:
  • Solution: While rare with direct FTMS, ensure EXR is updated. If persistent, try disconnecting and reconnecting the PM5 within EXR.
• Unable to Connect After Firmware Update:
  • Solution: After a PM5 firmware update, sometimes a full power cycle (removing and reinserting batteries) is necessary to refresh its Bluetooth module.

The Benefits of Connecting EXR to Concept2

Integrating EXR with your Concept2 machine transforms your training from a solitary effort into an engaging, data-rich experience:

• Enhanced Motivation: The gamified environment, virtual races, and scenic routes provided by EXR make workouts more enjoyable and help combat monotony, driving consistent engagement.
• Structured Training: EXR offers a variety of guided workouts, training plans, and interval sessions that automatically adjust to your performance, providing a clear path for progression.
• Performance Tracking: Detailed metrics captured by EXR allow for in-depth analysis of your performance over time, helping you identify strengths, weaknesses, and track improvements.
• Community Engagement: Participate in virtual group rides or rows, compete on leaderboards, and connect with a global community of ergometer users, adding a social dimension to your training.

Conclusion: Elevating Your Ergometer Training

Connecting EXR to your Concept2 ergometer is a simple yet powerful step towards enhancing your fitness journey. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of the PM5 and the immersive world of EXR, you can transform your workouts into dynamic, motivating, and highly effective training sessions. Embrace this integration to unlock new levels of engagement, track your progress with precision, and elevate your overall ergometer experience.