Two types of Rowing
Sweep Rowers
Athletes with only one oar are sweep rowers.
Sweep rowers come in pairs with a coxswain (2+) and pairs without (2-),
fours with a coxswain (4+) and fours without (4-) and the eight (8+), which always carries a coxswain.
Scullers
Athletes with two oars – one in each hand – are scullers.
There are three sculling events:
the single – 1x (one person), the double – 2x (two) and the quad – 4x (four).
Two main rowing events
Sprint Races
Sprint Races normally range from 500-2000 metres in length and this is where boats normally compete in marked lanes side by side.
Head Races
Head races are best described as time trials held in Autumn and Winter on rivers or canals over different distances, but usually range from 2.5km to 6km.
Health and wellbeing benefits of rowing
- Active, healthy engagement with the natural environment
- Builds confidence and self-esteem
- Boosts stamina and flexibility
- Develops fitness and body strength
- Improves mental and physical wellbeing