How to Row (Crew)

Last Updated: June 16, 2022

Rowing is a team sport that requires synchronization and rhythm between all teammates. While stroke seat (seat 8) is often regarded as the hardest and most important seat in the team of eight, all spots are extremely important to maintaining rowing flow. This article will help you learn proper rowing technique so you are ready to get on the water!

1

Get in the boat.

Have the boat parallel to the dock, unattached. Make sure the oars are in and are pushed as far as they can go until the catch, and that the 'oar lock' on the rigger is closed, to stop the oar from popping out. Move the oars forward and hold them with one hand. Slide the seat back, and put one foot in. Make sure to stand only on the parts of the boat that are marked with tape and do not step in the bottom, or rounded, part of the boat. Then squat down and sit down on the sliding chair. You should then be able to put the foot in the shoe, and then move the other foot in. Hold the oars in one hand and push off of the dock. Always keep one hand on the dock until you push off the dock.

2

Push your hands forward.

The oars will move back. Make sure they're flat on the water when you do this. Keep moving your hands forward until you can't reach anymore. Then bend your body over until it is fully extended. Then you should bend your knees so the seat moves up until your shins are perpendicular to the water. Remember not to lunge (called 'rushing the slide') when you get to the front or reach for too much length.

3

Square the blades.

This means to roll your wrists so the oars shift so that they are perpendicular in the water. In sweep rowing (one oar), it is important to only roll the wrist closest to the oar blade (a.k.a. the inside hand). This requires very little effort and the oars are built to stay in the flat or squared position, so don't fight it! If you're just starting out, you can row "on the square." Though this may unset the boat for new rowers, it is a useful technique in larger boats, especially when rowing half-crew.

4

Pull the oars back.

When sitting forward the first motion is to push your legs back in a dynamic motion, and the seat slide back. Do not jerk but apply some force. As you continue to improve, you can start to add more force, but it's helpful to get the technique down properly before you try to go quickly. Then lean back when you are close to the end of the stroke. The final motion should be the arms. The boat will probably spring backwards. Don't be worried, shells only go backwards.

5

Feather the oars flat, then repeat from step two.

Be sure to roll up the oar(s) once the handle passes the knees. Continue doing this until you feel you've traveled an appropriate amount, and then row back to where you got on.

6

Practice.

It takes a long time to perfect your proper rowing technique. But do not be discouraged, the sport is great fun and a great workout. The first few times out will be difficult, but the more you get to know the boat you are rowing the easier it will get.

Warnings

If you are inexperienced or do not have an instructor do not go rowing if there are many other boats on the lake or river, or if the water is rough. It is difficult to see someone rowing on their own because of how low you are. Only row in enclosed areas where other boats can't go if there are other boats out. If you have any doubt about it, do not go out. There's too much risk for hesitation.

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Keep your finger nails clipped nice and short, especially for sculling (rowing with two oars). Your left hand will be directly on top of your right hand, and long nails will dig into your skin.

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New rowers (and experienced) will sooner or later form blisters and/or ripped skin where the hand(s) grips the oar(s). Be sure to clean any and all blisters and use athletic tape to protect tender hands. They can be painful but don't give up!

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Make sure you take care of your shell if you choose to buy one. Keeping it in good condition is a factor in how you row. If you don't take care of it, it will be a danger to ride on. Remember to wash it when you take it out of the water.

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Rowers Tip! Bring socks! You never know who (or what) has been in those shoes, so bring socks to protect your feet! If you don't blisters might form on your heels.

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Remember if a boat does not have a coxswain you must call to them to alert them of you so you don't crash.

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