Indoor rowing has a problem. There, we said it. The monotonous, repetitive, soul-destroying nature of the entire process – sitting on an ergo, back and forth for hours on end with nothing to distract you apart from some drab gym walls and the slow progress of a screen – drives too many people away from the sport. On-water rowers have always had a complex relationship with the ergo and many refer to it as the most unpleasant of all the training mechanisms available to coaches. So, why is there such a burgeoning off-water community and what are they getting right that on-water rowers – who continue to fixate on an out-dated masochistic approach of pain over pleasure and deprivation over stimulation – are getting wrong?
After announcing our brand-new partnership with EXR – the team who are changing the face of indoor rowing forever – we wanted to shed some light on what this collaboration means and what EXR are doing to innovate this much-neglected corner of our sport.
What is EXR?
EXR is the app that turns your indoor rowing workouts into exciting online adventures. With its virtual worlds, detailed performance statistics and thrilling challenges, EXR inspires you to row more. Create your own avatar, engage with a wider rowing community, unlock achievements and level up.
Who is EXR for?
No matter your experience level or goals, EXR meets your individual needs with fitness-based workouts designed to maximize your potential. Race, join online events, or train alongside rowing enthusiasts from all over the world to boost your motivation.
How can you start using EXR?
All you need to get started is your Bluetooth rowing machine and a device like your smartphone, tablet, computer, or Apple TV to run the app. During your free trial, you dive into the full range of features that invite beginners and champions to explore the virtual waters. Choose a subscription that suits your lifestyle and add the optional family plan to share the joy of indoor rowing with your loved ones.
Are EXR holding any events I can get involved with?
On Sunday, 10 December 2023, British Rowing and EXR are staging an online indoor rowing event that will be completely free for all participants. The community will be global and the race course will be a beautifully-rendered 3D version of Henley-on-Thames. During the event, you can row at your preferred pace, explore your surroundings and train with the international rowing community. Besides experiencing the future of indoor rowing right from your home, you’ll earn the exclusive “Row with British Rowing” EXR badge.
How do I take part in the British Rowing EXR indoor row?
Check out the event and sign up for it here: https://exrgame.com/events/14
Are you new to EXR? Here’s how you can participate:
– Create an EXR account for free and download the app at https://exrgame.com/
– Sign up for the event in the app or at https://exrgame.com/events/14
– On 10 December, a few minutes before the start time, open the EXR app and select “Just Row”. Choose the Henley map’s Cliff Course route. Wait together with all the other online rowers for the start and, most importantly, enjoy the event!
Is EXR helpful to me if I am already a competitive on-water rower?
In short, absolutely! EXR creates a unique training experience for beginners and experienced rowers alike. The app’s broad range of features supports competitive rowers in their pursuit to break personal records and extend the boundary of performance. Here are three EXR highlights for competitive rowers:
- Online training mode: Following training plans is more fun when you get to overtake your team-mate’s virtual boat!
- Instant performance feedback: EXR’s comprehensive training display immediately highlights changes in your performance and gives you clear instruction for improvement
- Seamless synchronization: EXR syncs its workouts with apps like Apple Health, Strava, TrainingPeaks and Concept2 so you (or your coach) always have data at your fingertips
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