Concept2 Rowing Machine Accessories Worth Buying

A Concept2 RowErg works well straight out of the box, and the PM5 monitor already has Bluetooth and ANT+ built in. A few accessories do make it more comfortable and easier to look after. Here are the ones that earn their place, and what you can skip.

Comfort

Seat pad. The hard seat bothers some people on longer sessions. A thin cushion or padded cover helps, though padded shorts may be enough. Our guide to choosing a seat cushion covers the options. Keep any pad thin: a thick one changes your seat height and makes it harder to feel the stroke.

Gloves. Most rowers do not need them, as calluses are normal. If you want protection, see do you need rowing gloves. If blisters are a problem, check your grip first, since a tight hold on the handle is the usual cause.

Tall legs. Concept2 sells the RowErg with standard or tall legs, and it lists a Tall Legs Retrofit Kit that raises the seat of an existing machine from 14 inches (36 cm) to 20 inches (51 cm). Taller legs make getting on and off easier for people with stiff knees or hips, or limited mobility. Check UK price and stock with Concept2 UK before you plan on one.

Tracking your effort

Heart rate strap. The PM5 can pick up a Bluetooth or ANT+ chest strap, so you can see your heart rate beside your pace. A chest strap is generally more accurate than a wrist sensor during rowing. Read about heart rate monitors and heart rate zones.

ErgData. Concept2’s app connects to the PM5 and stores your sessions. It is free, with no subscription, and it lets you review splits, rate and heart rate afterwards.

Device holder. A new RowErg comes with a device holder for a phone or tablet, so you can follow a video or workout. If you use a third-party stand, make sure it does not touch the moving parts.

Older monitors. If you own a Model C or D with a PM2, PM3 or PM4 monitor, Concept2 lists a PM5 retrofit kit that includes a device holder. Check that it fits your model, and that it is in stock in the UK, before ordering.

Looking after the machine

• Chain oil. Concept2 says to oil the chain every 50 hours of use, or weekly for institutional machines. Put about a teaspoon of purified mineral oil, 3-IN-ONE oil or 20W motor oil on a paper towel, rub it along the chain and wipe off the excess. Do not use WD-40 or any other cleaner or solvent on the chain.
• A cloth and mild cleaner for the rail and handle. See how to clean your rowing machine.
• A mat. Protects the floor and catches dust. Choose a firm rubber mat that does not slide.
• Spare batteries. The monitor takes two D cells.
• A cover. Optional, but useful if the machine sits in a garage or dusty room.

A quick routine keeps the machine in good shape: wipe the rail and seat after each session, check that the handle and chain are free of grit, and look at the drive cord or chain every few months for wear. Replacement parts are available from Concept2 if something does wear out.

Things you can skip

Fancy covers, add-on sensors that duplicate the PM5 and gadget bundles rarely add much. Spend on a good seat pad, a heart rate strap and basic maintenance first.

Slides and dynamic setups

Concept2 also sells the Slide Pair, which lets the whole machine move back and forth under you, as a boat does, rather than you moving on a fixed rower. Concept2 says this gives a quicker catch and lets you row at a higher stroke rate. The product page lists Models A to E, and a RowErg on slides needs about 11 ft of length, but it does not mention tall legs, so ask Concept2 UK about price and fit. Slides matter mainly for competitive rowers who want to mimic the boat.

Which RowErg do you have?

The machine formerly called the Model D is now simply the RowErg. It costs around £990 with standard legs (checked 30 Oct 2026). For more on the machine itself, read our Concept2 RowErg review, and see handy rowing machine accessories for a wider list.