# BoatCoach for rowing & erging

> BoatCoach is the leading app for on-the-water and Concept2 ergometer training

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.eiref.boatcoach](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.eiref.boatcoach)

## Overview

- **ID:** `com.eiref.boatcoach`
- **Platform:** Android
- **Type:** Android app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Dan Eiref
- **Category:** SPORTS
- **Downloads:** 108,666
- **Rating:** 3.88 / 5 (645 ratings)
- **Version:** 2.202
- **Last updated:** 2025-08-30
- **First published:** 2012-04-09
- **Publisher country:** US
- **Size:** 7.87 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-13
- **Store listing:** [Google Play Store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eiref.boatcoach)
- **Website:** [http://www.boatcoachapp.com](http://www.boatcoachapp.com/)
- **Privacy policy:** [http://privacy.boatcoachapp.com](http://privacy.boatcoachapp.com/)

## Description

BoatCoach is the premier app designed for rowing enthusiasts and Concept2 ergometer users seeking comprehensive training tools. It offers real-time stroke rate, stroke count, distance, speed, and heart rate monitoring, utilizing your phone's built-in sensors without the need for external hardware. Supported boat types include sweeps, sculls, kayaks, dragon boats, and Concept2 ergometers (PM3, PM4, PM5). 

Users can create and customize unlimited workout programs via a simple graphical wizard or choose from predefined sessions such as pyramids and tabata. The integrated logbook records all rowing and erging workouts, enabling detailed analysis with graphs and maps, plus export options to platforms like Strava and RowsAndAll.com. Additional features include heart rate monitor integration, stroke analysis, power curve visualization, and a handy erg calculator. A paid upgrade unlocks advanced programming, Bluetooth HRM support, mapping, and data capture capabilities. BoatCoach stands as a cost-effective, feature-rich alternative to dedicated stroke meters, optimizing your rowing and erging training experience.

## Rankings

- #212,820 — Overall

## Permissions and access

### Permissions

- `android.permission.ACCESS_COARSE_LOCATION`
- `android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION`
- `android.permission.ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE`
- `android.permission.BLUETOOTH_ADMIN`
- `android.permission.BLUETOOTH_CONNECT`
- `android.permission.BLUETOOTH_SCAN`
- `android.permission.BROADCAST_STICKY`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE`
- `android.permission.INTERNET`
- `android.permission.MODIFY_AUDIO_SETTINGS`
- `android.permission.READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`
- `android.permission.VIBRATE`
- `android.permission.WAKE_LOCK`
- `android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`
- `com.eiref.boatcoach.permission.MAPS_RECEIVE`
- `com.google.android.finsky.permission.BIND_GET_INSTALL_REFERRER_SERVICE`
- `com.google.android.gms.permission.AD_ID`
- `com.google.android.providers.gsf.permission.READ_GSERVICES`

## Review summary

Top positives: rich analytics, real-time and offline data, strong compatibility with Concept2 PMs and Strava, plus an easy-to-use, cost-effective alternative to dedicated speed coaches. Key drawbacks: intrusive permission prompts and privacy concerns; inconsistent logging and export to Drive/Strava; PM5/cable connectivity can be unreliable; data accuracy varies (distance, calories, speed) and there are occasional glitches during workouts. Overall, the app is powerful and valuable for rowers, but reliability and privacy prompts are ongoing pain points.

### Pros

- In-depth analytics and session comparisons help track and improve rowing performance.
- Real-time metrics (speed, stroke rate, time) with offline analysis after sessions.
- Broad hardware and service integration: supports PM3/PM4/PM5 via cable or Bluetooth and exports to Strava/Concept logs.
- Easy-to-use interface with stable UI and responsive developer support.
- Cost-effective alternative to expensive speed coaches while still delivering key features.

### Cons

- Frequent Bluetooth and GPS permission prompts during workouts and privacy concerns over location data.
- Inconsistent logging/export: some workouts don’t appear in the log, Google Drive uploads fail, and Strava authorisation can error (403).
- PM5 via cable connectivity and setup can be problematic; some users report kludgy setup and limited compatibility.
- Data accuracy issues: distance, calories per hour, and speed can be unreliable depending on device sensors.
- Occasional glitches and UI annoyances during workouts (screen flicker, finishing-popup prompts).

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.eiref.boatcoach)