Virtual Team Challenge: How to Find or Start a Team

The January Virtual Team Challenge is popular: it helps kick off the New Year by encouraging participants to row, ski or ride as many meters as possible all month. It’s a great way to stay active during dark winter months and the camaraderie creates a supportive environment. 

This challenge was specifically designed to celebrate virtual teams: members who are not working out side-by-side or in the same building. Dedicated to team goals, many athletes find themselves pushing farther than they would alone!

If you’ve never entered a team challenge, now is the time to join! It’s easy to start a team and you can invite along anyone who uses a Concept2 RowErg, SkiErg or BikeErg. It only takes two people to start a team, so invite your favorite training buddy. Whether you work out side-by-side at a gym or are separated by miles, you’ll work together towards a common goal. If you’re looking to join a team or find teammates, you can visit the Concept2 Forum to let others know you’re available.

You can also ask friends and family members to join a team. You might be surprised by how many say yes! A simple email or text can be all it takes. Social media is a great way to let others know you’re recruiting for a new team. Whether you post on your personal page, tag #c2challenge or share on your favorite Concept2 group, there are many ways to find a team or teammates. There are Concept2 groups that are managed by athletes who are loyal to our ergs, search around to find the right community for you!

Teams vary in their competitiveness and goals. Some want to stay ahead overall, or be at the top of the leaderboard based on their division or team size. Other teams are just looking to stay fit or conquer their personal goals. There’s likely a team that fits your vision for January meters. The wonderful variety of team names—Rowing for Beer, Knotty Knitters, BikeErgs Don’t Float—reflects the great sense of humor with which teams approach this challenge.

Teams may be consistent year over year or built for only this challenge. When finding team members, it helps to be clear on what you’re looking for: competitiveness, year-round racing, shared other interests or fun! Novices are welcomed on many teams. This challenge is a great way to make working out a regular habit.