Erg Machine: Invention, Evolution, and Impact of the Concept2 Rower

Who invented the erg machine?

The "erg machine," most commonly referring to the rowing ergometer, was invented by brothers Dick and Pete Dreissigacker, who founded Concept2 in 1976 and introduced their revolutionary air-resistance indoor rower in 1981.

The Genesis of the Rowing Ergometer

The term "erg machine" is widely used in the fitness world, often as a shorthand for an "ergometer," a device that measures the work performed during exercise. While various types of ergometers exist—such as cycle ergometers, arm ergometers, and treadmill ergometers—the phrase "the erg machine" almost universally refers to the Concept2 Indoor Rower. This piece of equipment has become a staple in gyms, boathouses, and homes worldwide, synonymous with a challenging, full-body workout.

The story of the rowing ergometer's invention is deeply rooted in the passion for rowing and the pursuit of athletic excellence.

• The Inventors: The Concept2 Indoor Rower was conceived and developed by Dick and Pete Dreissigacker, two brothers who were competitive rowers themselves and graduates of the University of Vermont.
• Their Background: Both brothers were members of the U.S. Olympic rowing team (Dick in 1972, Pete in 1976). Their firsthand experience with the demands of the sport, coupled with their engineering backgrounds, provided the perfect foundation for innovation. They understood the critical need for effective off-season training that accurately mimicked the on-water rowing stroke.
• The Company: They founded Concept2 in 1976, initially producing composite racing oars. Their expertise in materials and design from building oars naturally led them to tackle the challenge of indoor training.

From Ski Poles to a Global Phenomenon

The Dreissigacker brothers' journey to inventing the indoor rower was one of iterative design and ingenuity, driven by a desire to create a training tool that was both effective and accessible.

• Early Prototypes: Their initial experiments involved using bicycle parts and aluminum ski poles to construct rudimentary rowing devices. The key challenge was to create a resistance mechanism that felt natural and provided a consistent, measurable workout.
• The Breakthrough: Air Resistance: The pivotal innovation was the development of the air resistance flywheel. Unlike earlier rowing machines that used hydraulic cylinders or elastic cords, the air-resistance system offered several advantages:
  • Fluid Motion: It closely mimicked the feel of rowing on water, where resistance varies with effort.
  • Self-Pacing: The user controls the resistance; the harder you pull, the more air the flywheel moves, and the greater the resistance.
  • Durability: Fewer moving parts meant less wear and tear.
• Launch of the Model A: After years of development, Concept2 introduced its first commercial indoor rower, the Model A, in 1981. It quickly gained traction within the rowing community for its accuracy, durability, and superior simulation of on-water rowing.
• Continuous Evolution: Concept2 has continued to innovate, releasing subsequent models (Model B, C, D, E, and the current RowErg). They have also expanded their product line to include the SkiErg (simulating Nordic skiing) and the BikeErg (a stationary air-resistance bike), applying the same reliable air-resistance technology.

Why the Concept2 Design Endured

The enduring popularity and widespread adoption of the Concept2 erg machine are a testament to its fundamental design principles and its efficacy as a training tool.

• Accuracy and Consistency: The performance monitor on Concept2 machines provides precise, repeatable data on power output, distance, pace, and calories burned. This objectivity is crucial for training, tracking progress, and competitive benchmarking.
• Durability and Simplicity: Built with robust materials and a straightforward design, Concept2 rowers are known for their longevity and ease of maintenance, making them a cost-effective investment for individuals and facilities.
• Full-Body Workout: Rowing engages approximately 86% of the body's muscles across key muscle groups:
  • Legs: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes (power phase).
  • Core: Abdominals, obliques, erector spinae (stabilization and power transfer).
  • Upper Body: Lats, rhomboids, deltoids, biceps, triceps (pull phase and recovery).
• Low Impact: Despite being a high-intensity exercise, rowing is remarkably low-impact, making it suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels and those recovering from certain injuries.
• Community and Competition: Concept2 fostered a global community through its online logbook, rankings, and virtual challenges, further solidifying the erg's status beyond just a training tool.

The Broader Definition: What is an Ergometer?

While "erg machine" colloquially refers to the rowing machine, it's important to understand the scientific context of the term "ergometer."

• An ergometer is any device used to measure the amount of work or energy expended during physical activity. The word "erg" itself is a unit of energy or work.
• Purpose: Ergometers are crucial in exercise physiology for:
  • Assessing Fitness: Measuring aerobic capacity (VO2 max), anaerobic threshold, and power output.
  • Research: Standardizing exercise protocols for studies on metabolism, cardiovascular health, and training adaptations.
  • Rehabilitation: Providing controlled, measurable exercise for recovery.
• Examples: Beyond rowing, other common ergometers include:
  • Cycle Ergometers: Stationary bikes with controlled resistance.
  • Treadmill Ergometers: Treadmills with adjustable speed and incline.
  • Arm Ergometers: Devices for upper-body cycling.

The Legacy of Innovation

The invention of the Concept2 erg machine by Dick and Pete Dreissigacker did more than just create a piece of exercise equipment; it revolutionized how rowers train and significantly contributed to the broader fitness landscape. Their commitment to engineering excellence, rooted in their own athletic experience, resulted in a machine that is scientifically sound, incredibly effective, and remarkably durable.

Today, the erg machine stands as a testament to the power of combining personal passion with innovative design to solve a practical problem, ultimately benefiting millions of people seeking improved fitness and performance.

Conclusion: A Testament to Ingenuity

The "erg machine," specifically the widely recognized Concept2 Indoor Rower, was invented by brothers Dick and Pete Dreissigacker. Their vision, fueled by their competitive rowing backgrounds and engineering acumen, led to the creation of the air-resistance rowing ergometer in 1981. This invention transformed indoor training for rowers and established itself as an indispensable tool for comprehensive fitness, standing as a significant milestone in exercise science and equipment design.