Drag factor controls how much opposing force builds up against your Peloton Row handle as you increase your rowing speed. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rower, we strongly recommend that you use the default drag factor setting to experience the best Peloton workout. This setting simulates the feeling of rowing a boat in the most realistic way. Increasing or decreasing this number will change that lifelike feeling.
Adjusting the Drag Factor
Drag factor on the Peloton Row does not work the same as the resistance setting on the Peloton Bike or Bike+. The opposing force on the Row is automatic and gets increasingly difficult as you pull the handle faster.
Your Peloton Row has three preset drag factor settings:
- Light (100)
- Medium (115)
- Heavy (130)
Medium (115) is the default setting. To change the drag factor setting manually, click on “Settings” in the top right corner of the Row’s touchscreen and then click on “Drag Factor”. You can also use the drag factor slider to manually enter a value.
Adjusting the drag factor on your Peloton Row will not necessarily make your workout easier or harder. The intensity of your workout is determined by form, technique, and the effort you put into each drive. If you do adjust this setting, pay attention to how the new drag factor affects your form. Improving your form is the best way to increase your speed, strength, and to have the most enjoyable workout.
- Please note: a higher drag factor can make it harder to maintain a target pace and negatively affect your form. Proper form and technique is key in determining your power output and the intensity of your workout, whether the drag factor is heavy or light.
For more tips and information on the proper Row form, click here.
What is drag factor and how does it affect my Row workout?
Drag factor controls how much resistance builds up as you pull the Row handle faster. It’s important to note that drag factor is not equivalent to resistance on the Peloton Bike, Bike+, or other workout equipment, given that resistance on rowers increases by default as the velocity of the handle increases.
The Peloton Row drag factor is set to a default value that's just right for taking Peloton classes, therefore we recommend not changing it. Advanced rowers might want to adjust it depending on how their body works most efficiently, but Members who are new to rowing might find it difficult to keep proper form at drag factors that are higher or lower than the default setting. This could lead to injury.
The Peloton Row's default drag setting is set to recreate the most realistic feeling of rowing a boat, and is the right level for the majority of people.
Does drag factor increase the intensity of my Row workout?
Drag factor is not intended to be a difficulty setting like those found on other Peloton products and may not lead to a more efficient workout. We recommend sticking with the default setting for the best experience.
How do I change the resistance on my Row?
Resistance on the Row is automatic, and it increases the faster you pull the handle. However, the degree to which the resistance increases with respect to speed is controlled by the drag factor. Automatic resistance can be adjusted by using drag factor and can be helpful for advanced rowers that are interested in fine-tuning their experience on Peloton Row.
How can I update my drag factor?
Your Peloton Row has three preset drag factor settings:
- Light (100)
- Medium (115) this is the default setting
- Heavy (130)
You can also use the drag factor slider to manually enter a value.
Outside of Class:
- To update your drag factor, tap on "Settings" located in the top right corner of your screen, then tap on "Drag Factor," and select the appropriate settings.
During Class:
- You can change your drag factor in "Quick Settings" in the top right corner.