What Is Concept2?
If you’ve spent any time in a CrossFit box, military gym, or Olympic training facility, chances are you’ve seen a Concept2 machine. But what makes Concept2 rowing machines, ski trainers, and bikes so trusted by pros—and should you get one for your home gym? Founded in 1976 by Olympic rowers Dick and Peter Dreissigacker, Concept2 is a U.S.-based company that revolutionized rowing machines with the world’s first air-resistance ergometer. Today, Concept2 is known for building elite-level cardio equipment used in top athletic facilities and thousands of home gyms around the world.
Concept2 Three Flagship Products
- RowErg – The classic rowing machine, available with standard or tall legs.
- SkiErg – A ski-style upper body and core trainer with wall or stand mount.
- BikeErg – A high-performance air-resistance stationary bike.
Each machine comes equipped with the PM5 Performance Monitor, which tracks your metrics and syncs with third-party fitness apps—no subscription required.
How Concept2 Machines Work
Concept2 machines use air resistance via a flywheel, giving you infinite resistance scaling: the harder you work, the more resistance you feel. You control your workout intensity 100%.
Key Features:
- Flywheel with Damper – Adjust the feel of your workout (like changing boat drag or wind).
- PM5 Monitor – Tracks time, watts, pace, calories, intervals, and heart rate.
- Durable Build – Made with commercial-grade aluminum and steel.
- Bluetooth/ANT+ Connectivity – Sync with fitness apps, smartwatches, and heart rate monitors.
Concept2 Rower (RowErg)
The RowErg is arguably the most iconic rowing machine on the planet. It’s trusted by elite rowers, CrossFit athletes, and fitness pros for its accurate feel and unmatched reliability.
Specs
- Seat height: 14” or 20”
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Easily separates into two pieces for storage
- No power required
Best for
- Total-body workouts
- Cardio conditioning
- Low-impact rehab and mobility
Concept2 SkiErg
If rowing isn’t your thing—or you want an upper-body alternative—the SkiErg is your answer. Inspired by Nordic skiing, it’s ideal for metabolic conditioning, core training, and improving pulling mechanics.
Why Choose It
- Great for people with knee issues or limited lower-body mobility
- Wall-mounted or freestanding with a compact footprint
- Builds aerobic capacity and upper-body endurance
Concept2 BikeErg
The BikeErg delivers a smooth, infinitely scalable ride thanks to the same air resistance system. It’s favored by cyclists, HIIT enthusiasts, and gyms looking for a durable alternative to traditional spin bikes.
Features
- Lightweight frame (under 70 lbs)
- Belt drive = quiet operation
- Easily adjustable saddle and handlebars
- PM5 monitor tracks cadence, power, and more
Concept2 Vs. Other Exercise Equipment
When it comes to cardio and conditioning equipment, there’s no shortage of options — from smart bikes with touchscreen classes to minimalist training systems for strength and mobility. But Concept2 holds a unique place in the market: it offers commercial-grade performance with no-nonsense design, zero subscriptions, and a proven track record in both professional and home gym environments.
Unlike brands that prioritize entertainment, aesthetics, or app ecosystems, Concept2 focuses on raw performance, data accuracy, and longevity. Whether you’re comparing it to tech-driven solutions like Aviron, functional systems like TRX and Dialed Motion, or elite treadmills like Woodway, the question isn’t just “Which is newer?” — it’s “Which will still be working perfectly 10 years from now?”
Here’s how Concept2 stacks up against other popular fitness equipment brands:
| Brand | Primary Focus | Quality Rating | Digital Integration | Price Tier | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 | Air-resistance cardio machines | Excellent | Moderate (PM5) | Mid | Data-driven athletes, reliable cardio |
| Dialed Motion | Rack-mounted cable systems | Excellent | None | Mid-Premium | Functional training, garage gyms |
| Woodway | Curved/manual treadmills | Excellent | Low–Moderate | Premium-Plus | Elite training, boutique gyms |
| Aviron | Gamified rowing machines | Good | Very High | High-End | Entertainment-focused home workouts |
| BLK BOX | Strength rigs and custom setups | Very Good | Low | Mid | S&C gyms, military, performance facilities |
| Rogue Fitness | Strength, rigs & accessories | Excellent | Low | Premium | CrossFit, powerlifting, functional training |
| Crossrope | Weighted jump rope systems | Good | Low–Moderate | Mid | Compact conditioning workouts |
| TRX Training | Suspension & bodyweight systems | Good | Low | Mid | Mobility, core, rehab, functional fitness |
| Technogym | Smart, integrated fitness | Excellent | Very High | Premium+ | Corporate wellness, connected training |
| Peloton | Guided cycling & treadmill | Very Good | Very High | High-End | Live classes, community |
| Assault Fitness | HIIT air bikes & runners | Very Good | Low | Mid | High-intensity, garage and CrossFit gyms |
Summary: How Concept2 Holds Its Own
Concept2 may not have the flash of brands like Peloton or Aviron, nor the modular strength-training appeal of Dialed Motion or TRX, but it outshines them in durability, consistency, and performance-focused design.
- Compared to Woodway, which also caters to elite users but comes at a much higher cost, Concept2 offers similar commercial durability at a more accessible price point.
- Unlike Technogym or Aviron, Concept2 doesn’t require a subscription or lock you into a content ecosystem. The PM5 monitor gives you real-time performance data and Bluetooth/ANT+ support without monthly fees.
- For those considering functional cable systems like Dialed Motion or suspension training from TRX, Concept2 complements these tools with world-class cardio. The machines can round out a minimalist training space with low-impact conditioning and accurate metrics.
- Even compared to niche solutions like Crossrope — great for space-saving cardio — Concept2 machines offer a more measurable, scalable training experience, especially for endurance athletes and rowers.
Bottom line: Concept2 is not about trends. It’s about timeless training tools that work — day after day, year after year. Whether you’re outfitting a garage gym, PT studio, or athletic facility, Concept2 equipment delivers results without fluff.
Concept2 Equipment Cost
Investing in a Concept2 machine means choosing reliability, durability, and long-term value. While these machines aren’t the cheapest on the market, their unmatched quality and resale potential make them a smart choice for serious fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and home gym owners.
As of mid-2025, here’s what you can expect:
- The Concept2 RowErg with standard legs is priced at around $990, while the tall legs version comes in at approximately $1,155.
- The SkiErg is available for about $850, with an optional floor stand costing an additional $220 to $250 depending on the vendor.
- The BikeErg retails for roughly $1,100, though some bundles or third-party resellers may offer slight variations depending on included accessories or shipping region.
- Shipping fees vary by location, typically adding $55–$85 within the U.S., and up to $150+ for international or remote addresses.
All machines come with Concept2’s PM5 Performance Monitor as standard and are known for lasting over a decade with minimal maintenance.
Discounts & Deals
Concept2 rarely offers major seasonal discounts — their pricing is fairly consistent year-round to reflect quality and demand. However, there are a few smart ways to save:
- Bulk discounts are available directly from Concept2 when ordering five or more units — ideal for studios, schools, or small group buys.
- Refurbished machines or scratch-and-dent units are occasionally available through Concept2 or authorized resellers. These are tested and often discounted by $50–$150.
- Military, school, and non-profit pricing may apply for institutions placing larger orders — contact Concept2 directly for quotes.
- Free shipping promotions sometimes appear on third-party platforms like Rogue Fitness or Amazon, especially during holiday sales.
While used Concept2 machines retain high resale value, it’s not uncommon to find older RowErgs or SkiErgs in excellent condition on local marketplaces at a 20–30% discount — just be sure to verify the PM5 version and condition.
Final Thoughts On Price & Value
Concept2 equipment may come with a higher upfront cost than basic cardio machines, but you’re getting elite-level performance, near-zero maintenance, and a product that holds its value for years. Whether you’re training for performance or simply want reliable, low-impact cardio at home, Concept2 delivers a return on investment that’s hard to beat.
Concept2 Pros And Cons
Pros ✅
✅ Ultra-durable construction
✅ Accurate, real-time performance data
✅ Bluetooth + ANT+ ready
✅ Great for any fitness level
✅ Excellent resale value
Cons ❌
❌ No built-in touchscreen or classes
❌ Requires some floor space
❌ Not gamified or entertainment-focused
❌ Basic design (functional, not flashy)
Final Verdict: Is Concept2 Worth It?
Absolutely — if you care about performance, durability, and getting results.
Concept2’s rowers, ski machines, and bikes aren’t gimmicky or trendy. They’re built for serious athletes, coaches, and everyday users who want proven cardio tools that last. While you won’t get streaming classes or glossy screens, you will get one of the smartest long-term investments in your gym.
Best For
- Runners, rowers, and endurance athletes
- Home gym owners who want commercial-quality cardio
- Functional fitness and CrossFit training
- Rehab, mobility, and low-impact exercise
- Data-obsessed users tracking watts, pace, and output
Not Ideal For
- People wanting touchscreen displays and live classes
- Users with extremely limited floor space
- Those who prefer gamified fitness experiences
- Shoppers on a strict budget
Fun Fact
Concept2 tests every machine by hand in Vermont, USA before shipping — and their RowErg is the global standard for rowing performance benchmarks.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, yes — Concept2 is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your fitness. Whether you’re a competitive athlete, a weekend warrior, or just someone who values efficient training with real results, Concept2 delivers unmatched performance, reliability, and value.
These machines are not flashy. There are no built-in touchscreens, no monthly content fees, and no over-the-top promises. Instead, what you get is professional-grade equipment trusted by Olympians, military units, CrossFit boxes, and rehab clinics worldwide. The PM5 monitor gives you all the data you need to train smarter, while the flywheel resistance ensures your output matches your effort — every single time.
Even after years of daily use, Concept2 rowers, bikes, and ski machines continue to operate like new with minimal maintenance. And if you ever decide to part ways with your machine, resale value is excellent — a rarity in the fitness equipment world.
In a sea of cardio machines built for trends, Concept2 remains laser-focused on performance, function, and simplicity. No gimmicks, no tech bloat — just powerful, proven tools that help you become a stronger, fitter, more resilient version of yourself.
So, is Concept2 worth it? If you want equipment that performs for the long haul, holds its value, and elevates your training without distractions — absolutely.
