TargetSplits¶
Web Application | November 2024 - Present
Overview¶
TargetSplits is a modern erg score calculator designed to help rowers calculate target split times for indoor rowing (erg) tests. Built as a personal challenge to improve upon traditional calculators as well as experiment with AI code generation, it combines clean design with practical functionality.
Key Achievements¶
Rapid Growth¶
- 3,700+ users in under three months
- Organic growth with no paid marketing
- Strong engagement from the rowing community
User Experience¶
- Simple, intuitive interface
- Instant calculations
- Mobile-responsive design
- No registration required
The Problem¶
Traditional erg calculators often suffer from outdated design implementing basic javascript calculations and don't help users plan their pacing strategy.
TargetSplits addresses these issues with a clean, modern approach focused on the core user need: quickly calculating target splits.
Technical Implementation¶
Design Philosophy¶
- Minimalist interface: Focus on the essential calculation
- Immediate feedback: Real-time results as you type/swipe
- Mobile-first: Optimized for use on the go
- Fast loading: Lightweight, no unnecessary dependencies
Development¶
Built as a modern web application with: - Responsive design for all devices - Clean, readable interface - Fast performance - Simple, maintainable codebase
Impact¶
TargetSplits has become a go-to tool for rowers training for erg tests, demonstrating that even in niche domains, there's value in rebuilding familiar tools with modern UX principles.
The rapid adoption (3,700+ users in under 3 months) validates the approach: sometimes the best innovation is making existing tools simpler and more pleasant to use.
Development Timeline¶
- November 2024: Concept and initial build
- Launch: December 2024
- Growth: 3,700+ users by February 2025
What I Learned¶
- Domain expertise matters: Understanding rowing training meant knowing exactly what features were essential vs. nice-to-have
- Simplicity wins: The most successful feature is often the simplest implementation
- Mobile-first is critical: Most users access the tool from the gym on their phones
- Organic growth works: A well-designed tool that solves a real problem spreads through word of mouth