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Think of them like a standing rowing machine, with even more benefits.

SkiErg machines are one of the lesser-known cardio machines than, say, treadmills or rowing machines, but that’s not to say they’re any less reputable. The reason you may not have heard of a SkiErg is probably because the first one only launched in 2009. For context, the first treadmill was invented in 1952, giving it a 57-year head start. What’s more, SkiErgs were initially only intended for Nordic cross-country skiiers to train when they didn’t have access to a mountain/snow (SkiErg machines mimic the exact same movement used in Nordic skiing, which we’ll explain in a mo).

Endurance and functional fitness athletes were next to join the SkiErg train, shortly followed by your average gym-goers (including us - big fans over here). So, what exactly is a SkiErg machine, how do you use one, and is it actually worth taking your routine off-piste and giving it a go?

As mentioned, the SkiErg machine hails from Nordic cross-country skiing. That’s where the ‘ski’ part of the name comes from. Andy Vincent, a strength and conditioning coach who often uses the machine adds: ‘Erg stands for ergometer, which is a device that measures the work you put in. Back in the day, this is the device that pro skiiers would use to measure their data and get better for their next competition.

‘Concept2 is the brand that founded the SkiErg machine. You may know them for their RowErg machine, the rower. The SkiErg uses the same concept that the rowing machines of the brand do, but you use it in a standing position, pulling down on two handles that mimic the technique used in Nordic skiing.’

Cardio endurance is the obvious one, but SkiErg machines also help you build muscular strength at the same time, as Vincent explains: ‘The SkiErg is an upper-body focused conditioning tool.’ Here are some more reasons you might want to try incorporating a SkiErg into your weekly routine:

Vincent cites the following muscles:

The SkiErg also works your core since the downward pulling motion can act as a crunch.

We totally get where you’re coming from if you’re wondering what the difference in the benefits of using a SkiErg and rowing machine is – they use practically the same movement (except you're standing with a SkiErg), after all. As for whether a SkiErg is ‘better’, it comes down to what you’re hoping to get from your workout.

Vincent gives the following examples: ‘If you want a low-impact workout but have a history of lower-back pain, the SkiErg machine might be better than rowing since it doesn’t put as much pressure on your lower back.

‘On the other hand, if you want a cardio workout, have no injuries, but your upper-body endurance is lacking, a rowing machine might be better since it still requires a lot of leg strength, so you won’t need as much from your upper-body.’

Check out this video for more tips.

If you’re serious about making a SkiErg a regular part of your routine, we’d highly recommend going with its mothership Concept2. This is the top rated iteration on Amazon, with 5 stars. It can be mounted on a wall or used with the floor stand, and it works for the traditional technique (i.e. pulling both handles down at once), or alternate arm techniques. This version also has the most advanced performance monitor, tracking distance, speed, pace, calories and watts. It’s compatible with your iPhone or Android, too – just download the Concept2 app and connect via bluetooth.

The next best thing after Concept2’s OG SkiErg is this machine by METIS. At £480, it’s almost half the price of the original Concept2, so a good choice if you’re fairly new to the machine. It has 10 adjustable resistance levels and comes with a blue backlist display for you to track your stats.