Rowing Basics

Here are a few brief descriptions of sweep rowing and sculling, recommended clothes, and power snacks. For more detailed information on coxswain commands and boats, see our Learn to Row page  or print a copy of it as a PDF (includes details about boats, terminoilogy, and coxswain commands).

Types of Rowing

• Sculling. The rower has a hand on each of two shorter blades, one on side of the shell.
• Sweep rowing. Each rower uses both hands on a single long blade extending from one side of the boat.

Many members are involved in both kinds of rowing as well as paddling. BIAC's crew teams offer opportunities for coached practices and racing in both sweep and sculling. We run and attend races throughout the year.

Sculling

Most scullers go out in singles (one-person boats, denoted as 1x, where the x indicates the rower has two oars) or doubles (two-person boats, denoted as 2x). BIAC also has several 4x (quad) shells. The x indicates that each rower has two oars and there is no coxswain (or simply cox) to steer.

For more information on sculling, see Mike Sullivan's Sculling Manual.

Sweep Rowing

Most sweep rowers practice in boats with four or eight rowers, plus a coxswain to steer (these are denoted as 4+ and 8+; the + indicates the presence of a coxswain). BIAC also has boats for two rowers. These are called pairs and are designated as 2- (indicating the absence of a coxswain.)

The rowing machines (ergometers, aka ergs) seen in health clubs are great for practicing correct rowing motion and for physical conditioning, but give no sense of the balance, timing, or synchronized oar bladework required on the water. This is a sport that demands both individual and team excellence.

During practices, rowers take turns serving as coxes. First-timers should read our guide to coxing: Coxing 101.

Clothing for Rowing (and Paddling)

We recommend comfortable yet close-fitting workout clothing. Anything loose or baggy can get caught in the sliding seat or an oar handle. In colder weather, dress in layers so you can shed a layer when warm and put it back on when cooling down or if the weather turns.

​Modern cycling gear works well on the water, as it is close-fitting, is highly visible, breathes, wicks away moisture, and protects against the elements. You won't wear shoes on the water, but you need some that can get wet and offer good traction when carrying boats to and from the docks.

You will also need a water bottle and, optionally, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Scullers may find a cycling rear-view mirror a convenient safety aid.