2025/06 New BioRow online tools

The first BioRow Rowing Speed and Rigging Chart was created in 2009 (RBN 2010/01) and quickly gained popularity among rowers and coaches. Since then, we have received very positive feedback, along with some comments indicating that the chart was overly complex and occasionally produced extreme results. Recently, the chart has been divided into several simpler, more logical sections and stylistically redeveloped using the latest technologies. New online tools have also been added, implementing the latest BioRow studies: https://biorow.com/online_services/

1. Target Split Based on Constant Effective Work per Stroke (EWpS). This is the simplest calculator, using our classic 20 years-old model (RBN 2005/10). It calculates training splits at various stroke rates, assuming constant EWpS, which is defined by the target race speed and stroke rate. On an ergometer, EWpS is the product of stroke length and average force, directly reflecting a rower’s effort. On water, EWpS is also influenced by drag factor affected by wind speed and direction, so the chart assumes constant weather conditions.
2. Prediction of On-Water Rowing Speed Based on Ergometer Score. Rowing speed is calculated from ergometer power output and drag factor, the last depends on the rower’s weight and the type of boat (RBN 2007/07). Using thousands of measurements from the BioRow database, we developed a mathematical model that relates these variables across different boat types. The predicted speed reflects an average outcome based on the diverse data used in our model.
3. Basic Rigging Calculator. This tool provides standard rigging values based on surveys and manuals (RBN 2006/12) for a selected boat type, rower category, and blade type. It includes typical values for oar length, inboard, and span/spread, all derived from statistical data and common practice in the rowing community.
4. Advanced Rigging Calculator builds upon the original Rigging Chart, using an improved BioRow biomechanical model. It is based on the concept that the handle burden factor – the relationship between applied force and handle velocity, which defines rowing load – should remain consistent across different combinations of rowing speed, stroke rate, oar angles, and rigging values. This tool allows you to compare and adjust these parameters for various racing conditions and boat types.
5. Weather Effect Calculator estimates how wind speed/direction and water temperature affect rowing speed, using data from Klaus Filter (2004) further developed in the BioRow model (RBN 2009/12). The model also incorporates the effect of the rower’s weight, as implemented in our simpler calculator above.

Inputs: Water temperature in °C. Wind speed (m/s) with sign: “+” = headwind, “–” = tailwind. Wind direction (degrees).

6. Erg Score Weight Adjustment. This tool compares rowers of different weights by using their power-to-weight ratio calculated with BioRow model (RBN 2014/10). Based on erg times and body weights, it provides a weight-adjusted score and a direct comparison between both rowers.
7. Race Distance Performance Evaluator compares rowing performance across different race distances (RBN 2025/02). After entering gender, a base race distance (typically 2000 m), and a result, you can test other target distances. The tool generates prognostic times to identify relative strengths and weaknesses in endurance or speed/power.
8. Evaluation of Erg Scores Based on Age and Weight chart compares erg performance in across rowers’ ages and weights using the latest BioRow model (RBN 2025/03), based on Concept2 world records in all age groups. Weight adjustment follows the same model used in the simpler weight calculator.

The most of our online tools are free, but the most advanced charts require BioRow membership. Please give it a try and reach out to us with feedback – it will allow us to improve models and help you even further!

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©2025 Dr. Valery Kleshnev