Rowing Basics
Caught a Crab?
Our quick guide to rowing lingo
Rowing has a language all of its own. And while you’ll recognise many of the words, their meanings can be quite different on the water.
Get to grips with the terminology and you’ll soon be talking like a seasoned rower — and, as a bonus, giving your brain a bit of a workout along the way.
Check out our quick guide to the words you’ll hear on the water, so you can get going without feeling all adrift!
And there’s a bonus: you’ll also find some really practical tips to help you get the most out of your rowing.
Catch - Where the stroke begins
The catch is the moment the blade enters the water at the front of the stroke. Timing is everything — get the catch right and the whole crew can move together as one.
Drive - The bit where you make the boat move.
The drive is the powerful part of the stroke, when you push with your legs, open your body and draw the handle towards you. Get everyone doing it together and the boat really starts to fly.
Feather - Turn the blade. Keep it moving.
After the stroke, the blade is rotated so it lies flat as you move it back towards the catch. This is called feathering. It helps the blade clear the water and keeps the recovery smooth.
New to Rowing? Got questions? We've got answers!
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes. Everyone who rows with the club needs to be able to swim 50 metres. Capsizes are rare, but they can happen, so being comfortable in the water is an important part of staying safe.
What should I wear?
Nothing special to start with — just comfortable sports clothing. Avoid anything too baggy, as your seat needs to slide freely. A waterproof jacket is useful, and a waterproof phone case is a good idea too. Leave the expensive rowing kit at home; you can get started with what you already have.
I've never rowed before, can I join?
Absolutely. You don’t need any previous rowing experience. We’ll introduce you to the boat, show you the basics and help you find your feet — or rather, your footplates.
Do I need to be fit to start rowing?
Not at all. You can build your fitness as you learn to row. We have people with different levels of experience and fitness, so there’s no need to arrive already looking like an Olympian!
Can children join the Club?
Yes. We welcome junior members and follow British Rowing’s safeguarding requirements for children and young people. Our Child Welfare Officer is Paul Gurbutt, and our safeguarding policies are available here.
There’s also a junior coastal sculling group based at Oulton Broad Watersports Centre, offering another route for young people who want to get on the water.
Who looks after the Club?
Lowestoft Rowing Club is run by volunteer members. The Club is affiliated to British Rowing, so we follow its rules, regulations and safety requirements. We are also a registered charity (No. 1216151) and operate in accordance with Charity Commission requirements.
The Small Print
Yes, you do need to read this bit.
It’s not quite as exciting as getting out on the water, but it’s important. We’ve got safety guidance, risk assessments, safeguarding and child protection policies to help keep everyone safe.
Have a read, know the basics and do your bit. And remember: safety isn’t just about looking after yourself — we’re all responsible for looking out for the people we row with