SkiErg vs RowErg: Which Is Better?

The Concept2 SkiErg and RowErg are two of the most recognisable cardio machines available. Both use air resistance, provide detailed performance data and are suitable for everything from steady endurance work to demanding high-intensity intervals.

However, the two machines deliver very different training experiences. The RowErg recreates the movement of rowing, while the SkiErg uses a standing pulling motion inspired by Nordic skiing.

So, which one is better? This guide compares the SkiErg and RowErg to help you choose the right machine for your training, space and goals.

SkiErg vs RowErg: Quick Comparison

What Is the Concept2 SkiErg?

The Concept2 SkiErg was originally designed to help Nordic skiers develop the strength and endurance needed for double-pole skiing. It has since become a popular machine in commercial gyms, functional fitness facilities, home gyms and competitive training environments.

The user pulls two independent handles downwards while engaging the arms, shoulders, back, core and hips. The movement can be performed with both arms together or alternated to create different training patterns.

Although the SkiErg is usually used from a standing position, it can also be adapted for seated training. This makes it a versatile option for athletes working around certain lower-body limitations.

What Is the Concept2 RowErg?

The Concept2 RowErg recreates the movement of rowing on water. Each stroke combines a powerful leg drive with hip extension and an upper-body pull, producing a coordinated full-body movement.

It is widely used by rowers, functional fitness athletes, commercial gyms and home users because it can support short sprints, longer endurance sessions and structured interval training.

The RowErg is available with standard or tall legs, allowing users to choose a seat height that suits their preferences and training environment.

Which Machine Provides the Better Full-Body Workout?

Both machines involve several major muscle groups, but the RowErg generally distributes the workload more evenly across the body.

The rowing stroke begins with the legs before transferring power through the core and into the upper body. This places significant emphasis on the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, back, core and arms.

The SkiErg also works the entire body when used with good technique, particularly when the hips and knees contribute to each pull. However, it usually places greater emphasis on the lats, triceps, shoulders and abdominal muscles.

• Choose the RowErg if you want a balanced full-body cardio workout with substantial lower-body involvement.
• Choose the SkiErg if you want greater emphasis on the upper body and core.

Which Is Better for Cardiovascular Fitness?

Both the SkiErg and RowErg can deliver an excellent cardiovascular workout. The better option is usually the machine on which you can train consistently and maintain efficient technique.

The RowErg is particularly effective for sustained endurance sessions because the workload is distributed across the legs, core and upper body. This can make it easier to maintain a consistent pace over longer distances.

The SkiErg can raise the heart rate extremely quickly, especially during powerful intervals. Because the upper body may fatigue sooner, it is often used for shorter conditioning efforts or as part of a mixed workout.

Which Is Better for HIIT and Functional Fitness?

Both machines are highly effective for high-intensity interval training, circuits and competitive functional fitness.

The SkiErg is easy to access during fast-paced workouts because the user can step directly into position and begin pulling. Its upright design also makes transitions between exercises quick and straightforward.

The RowErg may take slightly longer to get on and secure the feet, but it can generate an intense full-body effort over a wide range of distances and time intervals.

For mixed conditioning sessions, the SkiErg has a slight advantage in terms of rapid transitions. For standalone rowing intervals and longer conditioning pieces, the RowErg may be the stronger choice.

Which Takes Up Less Space?

The SkiErg is generally the better option where floor space is limited. When wall mounted, it has a particularly compact footprint and does not require the long horizontal space needed by a rowing machine.

A freestanding floor stand is also available for facilities where wall mounting is not suitable, although this increases the machine’s overall footprint.

The RowErg requires more space during use because of its long rail. However, it can be separated into two sections without tools, making it easier to store when it is not needed.

Which Is Easier to Learn?

Most beginners can start exercising on either machine relatively quickly, but both require good technique to produce efficient and repeatable movement.

The SkiErg movement can initially feel simpler because the user remains standing and pulls the handles downwards. However, learning to coordinate the arms, core and hips correctly is important if the machine is to provide a true full-body workout.

The RowErg has a more technical movement sequence. Users must learn to coordinate the drive and recovery while avoiding common mistakes such as pulling too early with the arms or rushing forward on the rail.

The SkiErg may therefore feel more accessible during a first session, while the RowErg can require more practice to master.

Performance Tracking

Both Concept2 machines use the PM5 Performance Monitor, allowing users to track important workout data including:

• Time
• Distance
• Pace
• Stroke rate
• Calories
• Watts
• Heart rate when connected to compatible equipment

The PM5 also supports wireless connectivity and can be used with Concept2’s ErgData platform to record workouts and monitor progress.

Because both machines use the same monitor system, neither has a major advantage in performance tracking. The choice comes down to the movement and type of training you prefer.

Who Should Choose the SkiErg?

The Concept2 SkiErg may be the better choice if you:

• Want to develop upper-body and core endurance
• Regularly perform functional fitness or mixed conditioning workouts
• Need a cardio machine with a compact footprint
• Want quick transitions between exercises
• Participate in HYROX or other events that feature SkiErg training
• Want a machine that can be adapted for seated use

Who Should Choose the RowErg?

The Concept2 RowErg may be the better choice if you:

• Want a balanced full-body cardiovascular workout
• Prefer longer endurance sessions
• Want to develop rowing-specific fitness and technique
• Want greater involvement from the legs and glutes
• Enjoy structured distance, pace and interval training
• Have enough horizontal space for the machine during use

Can You Benefit From Having Both?

For commercial gyms, performance facilities and serious home training spaces, the SkiErg and RowErg complement each other extremely well.

The RowErg provides a seated, leg-driven full-body movement, while the SkiErg provides an upright pulling movement with greater emphasis on the upper body and core. Offering both gives users more training variety and makes it easier to create balanced conditioning programmes.

They are also ideal for alternating intervals, partner workouts and functional fitness circuits.

Final Thoughts

There is no universal winner between the Concept2 SkiErg and RowErg. Both are durable, performance-focused cardio machines capable of supporting beginners, experienced athletes and demanding commercial environments.

The RowErg is the stronger all-round choice for users seeking balanced full-body cardio, longer endurance training and greater lower-body involvement.

The SkiErg is the better choice for upper-body conditioning, functional fitness and training spaces where a compact footprint is particularly important.

Ultimately, the right machine depends on the movement you enjoy, the muscles you want to emphasise and the space available in your gym.