Rowing is a unique sport in many ways. It is an activity where athletes don't see where they are going as they move backwards. They have to develop a good sense for spatial orientation to safely maneuver their boats. They have to work together in a perfect unison so that the boat runs smooth and efficient. They have to be able to balance the boat to take their strokes and prevent capsizing. They have to evenly work on developing their strength and endurance. They have to master breathing techniques that will allow them consistent supply of oxygen. And these are just some of the skills and abilities rowers have to acquire for successful performance.
Watch this video Opener from World Rowing to get a glipmse into the sport of rowing
#1 SWEEP ROWING vs SCULLING
Sculling boats are faster than their equivalent sweep boats.
Sculling utilizes symmetrical motion, compared to asymmetrical motion in sweep rowing.
Sculling is developmentally more appropriate for youth and beginners.
Sculling boats are generally more stable and easier to steer.
#2 BOAT CLASSES AND OLYMPIC EVENTS
The number indicates how many rowers are in the boat
The letter X indicates a sculling boat; No letter means it is a sweep boat
Symbols and indicate a boat with or without a coxswain
A coxswain can be at the stern (stern loader) or at the bow (bow loader) of the boat
In the Eight, a coxswain is always at the stern
Watch this video from World Rowing to learn more about the Olympic Rowing Boat Classes
#3 ROWING BOAT AND OAR EXPLAINED
A Bowball is a safety feature that reduces the damage and the risk of injuries in case of collisions.
Heel ties are also a safety feature, and connect the heel part of the foot stretcher to the foot plate helping a rower to pull their free out in case of capsizing.
The oar goes into the oarlock and is secured with a safety pin
All boats with a coxswain have a rudder for steering.
All "straight" sweep boats, meaning without a coxswain, also have a rudder that is connected to the foot stretcher of a rower that sits at the a bow or stroke seat.
Skeg helps the boat run straight and keeps it on a course.
The rigger is an aluminum or carbon structure that is attached to the side of the boat and holds an oarlock at its end.
The seat allows a rower to slide back and forth while taking strokes.
Whatch this video to learn more about the Parts of a Rowing Shell
#4 THE CREW EXPLAINED
The Coxswain is in charge of the boat. If the boat does not have a coxswain, then usually the bow and/or the stroke seat is in charge of giving commands.
The coach decides the boat lineup based on unique characteristics of each rower. The most important factor is that rowers have the ability to blend in and row together as one.
When you put 8 fastest individuals in the same boat, they will not necessarily be the fastest lineup.
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