Why We Love Indoor Rowing & the Excruciating 2K

We'll admit it - we're big fans of rowing. It's a great low-impact exercise and you see the world from an entirely different vantage point. But watching a race on a river or lake often distances the spectator from the drama of the athlete's effort. Which is why we LOVE indoor rowing and the excruciating 2K.

The 2K is a  respected and for some, feared  test of physical and mental fitness. The rower has to start fast and then maintain their effort as close to the red-llne as possible without cracking. The cox'n, as they do in a rowing shell, is there to encourage, cajole, and motivate the rower to maintain their planned stroke rating and speed during the race. It is truly a team effort.

Meanwhile spectators get to watch the rower up close and personal as they turn themselves inside-out to complete the distance, typically in 7 to 8 minutes. That may sound like a short time-frame but when you're in the middle of a 2K, it feels like an eternity.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words so here's a video of the Hammer Ergatta that Cleveland State University Rowing Team recently hosted. You'll see the physical drama unfold for yourself!