Concept2 Instructor Certification: Is it for You?

Knowledge is power and the same can be said when it comes to indoor rowing. Concept2 offers a certificate instructor program with the help of our partners UCanRow2, Dark Horse Rowing, and most recently, Concept Fitness. The certification is meant for gym owners, seasoned rowers, personal trainers, rowing coaches, and on-water and dry land athletes alike. If you are looking to improve and help others improve body mechanics, stroke ratio and rate, demystify the flywheel and damper setting – the Concept2 Instructor Certification might be for you! 

Who Can Get Certified? 

Certification courses are open to everyone and are an excellent option for individuals looking to improve their own rowing. They provide structured feedback on your technique and a deeper understanding of the RowErg in a professional setting. It’s easier to learn good form from the start than to unlearn bad habits, so if you’re new to rowing, now is the perfect time to get started. 

For coaches already working with on-water rowing teams or clubs, these courses offer a new perspective: teaching rowing to those who may never pick up an oar. Rowing is a versatile training tool that complements many sports, and when taught as an exercise, it requires a different approach. Even experienced rowing coaches will find new insights and teaching strategies in indoor rowing certification. Clubs may also consider expanding their reach into the broader fitness community—certification is a great first step. 

For trainers and fitness professionals, a Concept2 indoor rowing certification is a valuable addition to their resume. The RowErg is widely available in gyms, but few members receive guidance on how to use it correctly and safely. Earning a certification helps you maximize your investment and gives your members confidence in this low-impact, full-body workout. While rowing technique may seem intimidating at first, it’s surprisingly easy to learn and teach.

How Can I Get Certified? 

We offer three different ways to get Concept2 instructor certified with our partners UCanRow2, Dark Horse Rowing, and Concept Fitness. Each partner teaches the same curriculum and content, but some courses are based virtually, in person, or online on demand. Based on your time commitments and learning style, you can pick the partner that works best for you. Each partner requires a final test to be completed with an adequate passing score and a “learn-row” instruction class or practical exam in either the form of a video submission or in person performance. 

Concept Fitness is our newest partner offering Concept2 instructor certification and our only option that offers each course 100% in person.  They are based in Oceanside, NY, and their next in person course is scheduled for November 15-16 from 1PM to 4PM each day. Expect an intimate learning experience with real-time feedback to give fitness professionals, athletes, and rowing enthusiasts the tools they need to master rowing mechanics, programming, and instruction. 

UCanRow2 Offers in person, live online classes, and on-demand teaching for the Concept2 instructor certification. Whether it takes 2 days or 6 months, UCanRow2 has the tools to help you become certified as a Concept2 rowing instructor no matter what your busy schedule is. 

Dark Horse Rowing has been helping certify Concept2 accredited coaches since 2011. The Dark Horse course is fully on-demand online and allows lifetime access to the curriculum, allowing students to review lessons even after they have completed the course at any time. They also offer two courses – Foundations or Pro. Pro is best for those who want to coach professionally with Concept2 instructor recognized credentials. Foundations is focused on those looking for personal development and expertise. 

How do I find Concept2 Certified Instructors? 

Once you have completed the Concept2 instructor certification with one of our partners, you have the choice to have your preferred contact information shared so we can publish it on our list of instructors. This allows individuals to find instructors to help them elevate their rowing with coaching. Anyone can search our extensive list of certified instructors based on location, or search for instructors that offer virtual online training.