Rowing and Crew Buying Guide

Rowing is an excellent form of exercise. Whether you're in the gym using a rowing machine or out on the water with fellow rowers, you're sure to get an excellent cardio vascular workout. It is a pretty demanding sport that requires strong core muscles as well as a lot of endurance. Whether you're rowing recreationally or competively, there is some key things you should know.

Basic Facts

• You always face the back of the boat and always have a steady place for your feet.
• Make sure your oars are in oarlocks and held securely in place. This will make taking strokes much easier.
• There are two forms of strokes:
• Sweeping- This is when each rower has only one oar and you're rowing in pairs.
• Sculling- This is done when the rower has both oars.
• It is low impact and low weight bearing, but still exercises most muscle groups.
• While its does burn fat, it only builds some muscle.
• Spains and twist injuries are rare, but rowing ca be tough on knee joints, spine and forearems.

Equipment

Ergs Ergs are used for rowing indoors when there is no opportunity to row out on water, although they are becoming increasingly popular among fitness centers. They don't measure the exact resistance of the water, but are a close match.	Oars  The type of oar you buy will depend greatly on the type of rowing you're planning on doing. Decide whether you use it mostly for steering or power or your sculling or sweeping. They should also coordinate with the rest of the people on your boat.	Boats  Racing boats come in a variety of sizes, depending on how many people you're going to be rowing with. The standard sizes are for 1, 2, 4,or 8.	Apparel and Accessories  There are many crew clothing and accesories to choose from when trying to find the most appropriate outfit.