Reinventing the Erg: How MyRow Is Making Rowing Addictive Again

Discover how Gary Simpson, founder of MyRow and The Rowing Company, is transforming the Concept2 rowing experience with immersive tech, smart data tools, and a mission to make rowing more engaging for everyone.

Let’s be honest—rowing on the erg can get boring. I’ve heard it a hundred times from clients, teammates, and masters rowers alike. And I get it. You sit down, strap in, and stare at that tiny screen while hoping the workout goes by quickly. But what if rowing could feel more like play—without sacrificing training quality?

On this episode of Rowing on the Square, I sat down with Gary Simpson, the founder of The Rowing Company and the creator of MyRow—a 22-inch touchscreen platform designed specifically to enhance the Concept2 rowing experience.

Yes, that Concept2—the gold standard for rowing machines. Gary’s vision? Keep the world’s best erg, but make it smarter, more immersive, and (dare I say) fun.

The Big Idea Behind MyRow

Like many of us, Gary was rowing more during COVID and realized just how stale the experience could get. Meanwhile, his Peloton bike offered engaging classes, sleek metrics, and a level of motivation that made it hard to skip workouts. So the question became: Why doesn’t the erg have this?

Instead of settling, Gary built it.

With MyRow, you get a connected fitness experience on your Concept2: real-time data, dynamic programming, performance tracking, and a coach right there on screen. It’s about making your workouts something you look forward to, not just get through.

From Subway Systems to the Rowing World

Gary’s not new to innovation. He founded Transit Wireless, the company that brought Wi-Fi to the New York City subway system. (If you’ve ever checked your phone underground in NYC, you’ve got him to thank.) He’s also co-founder of Windmill Capital and an active investor in both real estate and education-focused initiatives.

That kind of entrepreneurial mindset shows up in MyRow. It’s not just about slapping a screen onto a machine—it’s about rethinking how we engage with rowing as a sport, as training, and as a lifestyle.

Why It Matters for Rowers Like Us

I know a lot of rowers—especially masters—are skeptical of new tech. But this is the kind of evolution that could bring new life to your training. Whether you’re trying to build endurance, stay consistent, or just enjoy your workouts more, MyRow gives you tools to do that.

There’s even a Functional Threshold Power (FTP) feature designed just for rowing, and future updates will include more advanced analytics and streaming capabilities.

This isn’t about replacing good coaching—it’s about enhancing what you’re already doing and helping you row longer, smarter, and stronger.

Want to Learn More?

Check out myrow.com or follow them @myrowactive to see what they’re building. And if you haven’t already, give the episode a listen—it’s a deep dive into rowing tech, coaching philosophy, and what it takes to keep this sport thriving for years to come.

Until next time—see you on the water (or the erg).

—Adrien