Concept2 Half Marathon Row Training Plan (21,097m)

  • Duration: 10 Weeks
  • Sessions: 4 per week
  • Tracking: Use ErgData to record each workout.

Introduction

Rowing a half marathon can be challenging and requires consistency, and planning. This 10-week program is structured to prepare you for this demanding task.

The training follows a four sessions per week pattern. Each stage serves a different function: to establish basic endurance, to build mileage, to enhance half marathon pace judgement, and to taper to ensure readiness before the final event. Long-distance rows are gradually introduced, and steady and half marathon pace sessions help you learn to deal with the pace during long periods.

You are encouraged to use ErgData with each workout to help monitor progress. Tracking distances covered, pace per 500 meters, heart rate, and your total mileage will allow you to measure your improvement in mastering longer distances, your control over half marathon pace, and your endurance levels on a weekly basis.

Whether this is your first half marathon row or a return to the distance, this plan emphasizes consistency and sustainability over speed. Commit to the process and trust that the accumulation of work will enable you to successfully complete your half marathon row.


Pace & Heart Rate Guide

ZonePace Guide (vs 5k pace*)HR Zone
UT2 (Low intensity)+18–22 sec60–70% HRmax
UT1 (Moderate)+14–18 sec70–80% HRmax
Half Marathon Pace (HMP)+8–12 sec75–85% HRmax
Threshold (AT)+6–10 sec85–90% HRmax

*We recommend performing a 5000m test, using your current fitness 5000m best, or a guestimate of what your 5000m best would be to help determine your pacing.


Training Schedule

Weeks 1–3: Base Endurance

WeekSession 1Session 2Session 3Session 4
18 km UT23×10 min UT110 km UT28 km UT2
210 km UT24×8 min AT10 km UT28 km UT2
312 km UT23×15 min UT110 km UT28 km UT2

Weeks 4–6: Aerobic Build

WeekSession 1Session 2Session 3Session 4
410 km UT23×10 min AT10 km UT22×20 min AT
512 km UT22×30 min UT110 km UT23×12 min AT
614 km UT25×8 min AT10 km UT23×10 min AT

Weeks 7-9: Half Marathon-Specific Endurance

WeekSession 1Session 2Session 3Session 4
712 km UT22×20 min HMP8 km UT22×20 min AT
814 km UT250 min HMP8 km UT23×12 min AT
916 km UT22×20 min HMP6 km UT26 km UT2

Weeks 10: Taper & Race Preparation

WeekSession 1Session 2Session 3Session 4
106 km easy3×5 min HMP4 km very easyHalf Marathon

Notes

  • Keep long rows slow and controlled
  • Limit rest periods during interval sessions to no more than three minutes
  • Fuel and hydrate during long rows
  • Consistency matters more than any single session