Drag Factor Recommender
Answer 3 questions to get a personalized drag factor and damper setting recommendation for your Concept2 erg.
Quick summary
- What it does:
- Recommends ideal drag factor and damper setting
- Input:
- 3 questions about body weight, experience, and goals
- Output:
- Personalized drag factor range and damper setting
- Price:
- Free, no signup required
1. Your experience level
2. Your body weight
3. Primary training goal
Drag factor vs damper setting
The damper (1-10 lever) controls airflow into the flywheel. The drag factor is the actual resistance number the PM5 calculates. Two machines at damper 5 may have different drag factors depending on dust, altitude, and wear.
Most competitive rowers use a drag factor of 110-130 (roughly damper 4-6). Higher drag factor is NOT “harder” — it changes the feel of the stroke. Think of it like gears on a bike: higher drag = heavier, slower strokes; lower drag = lighter, faster strokes.
How to check drag factor on the PM5
Go to More Options → Display Drag Factor, then take a few strokes. The monitor will display your current drag factor. Adjust the damper lever until it's in your target range.
Get started with a training plan
ErgManiac generates personalized training plans at the right intensity for your fitness level.
Start Free Trial →