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SkiErg
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Concept2 has developed a machine that mimics the motion of poling for Nordic skiers. The SkiErg is intended to help cross country skiers build strength and endurance in a sport-specific motion.
Concept2 is a leading manufacturer of racing oars and rowing machines. The company says its SkiErg is similar to the Concept2 Indoor Rower, which was first introduced in 1981.
The Vermont-based company is better known for rowing, but the founders, brothers Peter and Dick Dreissigacker, have have cross country skiied since they started Concept2 in an abandoned dairy barn over 30 years ago.
"We first played with the idea of making ski training equipment in 1982, using parts from the Model A Indoor Rower," explains Dick Dreissigacker. "We have fine-tuned our designs for skiing, and are excited to bring this technology to skiers."
An ergometer, or “erg”, is a device that measures work. Every SkiErg includes a performance monitor that gives skiers accurate, comparable feedback. This allows skiers to assess output, monitor progress, and compare scores with others.
"The launch of the SkiErg is exciting," says Peter Dreissigacker, "because it gives skiers the tools that rowers have had for years – a way to test their fitness in a way that is not impacted by terrain or snow conditions."
On the SkiErg, each pull engages the legs, arms, shoulders and core in a downwards "crunch," using body weight to help accelerate the handles. Each pull finishes by extending the arms down along the hips with knees partly bent.
The motion on the SkiErg can also be easily adapted to athletes with lower leg injuries. Kris Freeman, 10-time National Champion and two-time Olympic Nordic skier, has been using the SkiErg to rehabilitate from recent leg surgery.
The SkiErg is available either as a wall-mounted unit or with an optional floor stand.
More information is available at www.concept2.com . |
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