1615 Coastal Rowing 14a English

coastal
rowing
1st edition, July 2020
01
world rowing: coastal rowing
foreword
Coastal rowing is the mountain biking of The earth’s surface is 71 per cent water,
rowing. It is a discipline that is growing so let’s open this enormous field of play
around the world. up to everyone, from small islands to
huge urban harbours.
The rowing skills needed to have fun and be
safe out on the water are useful for more Get out on the water and enjoy the waves.
than just sport, they are essential life skills
for all coastal communities.
They are traditional skills, and many have

been forgotten since the outboard engine
became more widespread in the 1970s.
The team at World Rowing have created this
guide, so together we can teach the next
generation to be confident and competent
on the sea.
I want to thank the coaches and rowers

who provided their time and knowledge Guin Batten
to support this booklet. Chair of the FISA Rowing For All Commission
The World Rowing Federation, FISA (from the French, Fédération Internationale des
Sociétés d’Aviron) is the governing body of the sport of rowing. It is empowered by its
155 member National Rowing Federations, the National Olympic Committees and the
International Olympic Committee to govern the sport of rowing.
FISA sets the rules and regulations for the practice of the sport, in all its forms including
elite, para-rowing, coastal, masters and aspects of indoor rowing. The Federation works
on coaching education and other matters relating to the sport and its development.
02
contents
1.0. introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04
1.1. coastal boats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06
2.0. preparing to go afloat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07
2.1. safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08
2.2. managing a water session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08
2.3. planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09
2.4. pre-launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.0. on the water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.1. getting into the boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.2. holding the blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.3. technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.4. working the water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.5. skills and drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.6. steering and calling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.0. equipment and rigging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.0. training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5.1. learning the basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
5.2. learning to race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
5.3. annual training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6.0. boathouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
6.1. coastal rowing boat hangar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
7.0. coaches toolkit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
7.1. rescue drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
7.2. commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
7.3. dynamic risk assessment checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7.4. dynamic risk assessment template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
03
pictured: CMix2x racing at the World Rowing

Beach Sprint Championships, Shenzhen CHN
1.0. introduction
coastal rowing racing is one of the fastest growing

disciplines in the sport of rowing, with activity now
in all continents of the world.
1.0. introduction 04
what is coastal rowing?

Coastal rowing takes place on open water, Since then the beach sprint format has been
typically on the sea or on large lakes. There in Beach Games events across the world
are many different types of boats that including Asia, Africa and the Americas. The
race on the sea. The official World Rowing first global event was the 2019 World Rowing
discipline was first codified in France and Beach Sprint Finals in Shenzhen, China. The
is now a global discipline. 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal will
have the beach sprint format.
Coastal rowing is defined by a set of
measurements and regulations that boats and The endurance format is older and started
rowers need to comply with when they want in France in the late 80s. The first World
to race. These can be found in the FISA Rules Rowing Coastal Championships was held in
pictured: 2x: double
of Racing www.worldrowing.com Cannes, France in 2007 and is run annually.
The Championships have been held around
There are three pathways: beach sprint, the world including Lima, Hong Kong,
endurance and touring (sometimes called Victoria and on Lake Geneva. beach sprint format: endurance format: tour format:
challenge or raid rowing).
Clubs and tour companies run 1,000s of • Is a run, row, run • Is a 4-6km course around • Is a longer duration
The beach sprint format started as a result tours around the world each year using combination over a a variable number of (can be multiple days
of the emergence of the beach games coastal boats. The World Rowing Tour runs 250m out and back turning points. and has stops along
competitions. The first event was in Italy in each year for about 60 people and often buoyed course. the route).
• Starts and finishes can
2015 at the Mediterranean Beach Games. uses coastal boats. • It uses a time trial be either on the water • Can be either a race or
and knock-out or a beach depending a challenge.
progression system. on the location.
• Crews are often
pictured: 1x: solo • Races last between • Each race has 10-20 accompanied by support
2:30-3:30 minutes. boats, which can mean boats or land support.
there is interference at
• Venue is on swimming • Successful rowers
the first turning mark.
beaches with small have ultra endurance,
waves (less than 1m). • Races take between good navigation and
20-40 minutes. watership skills.
• Successful rowers need
running and rowing • Successful rowers need
speed, agility, turning good watership skills,
power, directional endurance fitness,
awareness and wave navigating skills and
handling skills. race tactics.
1.0. introduction 05
1.1. coastal boats solo: 1x double: 2x quad: 4x+
There are three types of boats: the solo solo: 1 rower

scull (C1x), the double scull (C2x) and the
coxed quad scull (C4x+).
max length: 6,00m (19ft 8in)
All the boats are sculling boats, meaning
minimum width: 0.75m (2ft 5in)
that rowers have two oars each. Males and
females compete in all three boat classes minimum weight: 35kg (77lbs 2oz)
and in mixed crews. coastal Events: CW1x, CM1x
The boats are designed to row safely
in big offshore waves; they are highly
manoeuvrable and can be launched on double: 2 rowers
and off sandy swimming beaches.
max length: 7.50m (24ft 7in)
minimum weight: 60kg (132lbs 4oz)
coastal Events: CW2x, CM2x, CMix2x
quad: 4 rowers with cox
max length: 10.70m (35ft 1in)

minimum weight: 130kg (286lbs 8oz)
coastal Events: CW4x+, CM4x+
1.0. introduction: 1.1. coastal boats 06

pictured: safety kit on a boat
2.0. preparing
to go afloat
pictured insert: buoyancy aid (left),

life jacket (right)
2.0. preparing to go afloat 07

2.1. safety 2.2. managing a water session
When going out on the water follow These come under four headings:
rowers’, crew captains and coaches obligations some simple steps to keep the session Planning, Pre-Launching, On Water
fun and safe. and Post Landing.
Rowing is by its nature an unpredictable According to international maritime law,
sport and therefore inherently involves all sea-going vessels should have one
an element of risk. Rowers, coaches person responsible for safety and 1. planning 3. on water
and officials all have a ‘duty of care’ navigation. In coastal rowing this person
• Which rowers • Launching
to themselves and others to take all is called the ‘crew captain’ and is often the
reasonable action to reduce the risks. most experienced crew member. • What equipment • Warm-up and drills
• Risk assessment • Training and coaching work
As a coach or a crew captain, there are The crew captain is expected to*:
• Float plan • Landing
expectations placed on you, by the national
federation, the club, an event organiser, • Before the outing: assess the risk and • Coach session plan
the rowers and their families. Everyone is ability of the crew for the conditions, do
an important part of the risk management the boat safety checks and complete the
process for rowing. sign-out process.
• During the outing: monitor conditions and
Coastal rowers and coxes are expected to*:
make decisions on safety, ensure the crew ✓
• Follow the local maritime rules. respects all navigation and safety rules.
• Wear or have within easy reach • After the outing: complete the
appropriate lifejackets (cox to wear). sign-in process. 2. pre-launching 4. post landing
• Know what to do if swamped, capsized As a coach your role is to oversee, teach • Dynamic risk assessment • Sign-in
or in need of a tow. and instill these in your rowers and coxes. • Safety checks • Wash the boat and replace
• Briefing safety equipment
*
or more details see the
F
• Sign-out • De-brief
World Rowing Rule Book
• Take boat and oars to water • Report any damage
2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.1. safety 08

2.3. planning
• Rowers: list your rowers. Make sure you

know their skill level, health condition
rowers’ experience
and if they have done a swim test. Collect
emergency contact details for all rowers Take account of the rowers’ ‘watership’ and
and parents’ permission for Junior technical confidence and competence.
rowers.
Rowers should be able to swim at least
• Equipment: check what boats, blades and 50m comfortably, put their head under
coach boat you can use. water without panicking and be able to float
for at least two minutes. If they cannot, a
• Risk assessment: refer to the generic risk
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is essential.
assessment (the club will typically have
All rowers should be trained to deal with
one for your normal training locations).
a capsize, a re-entry and man overboard.
If it is a new location, undertake a generic
These can be taught at a swimming pool.
risk assessment and make a record of it.
• Float plan: develop a float plan. This will A detailed look at the three key rescue drills
have the route, time period, expected can be found in Coaches Toolkit section on
weather, tides and currents, marine traffic page 52.
notices, emergency shelters and contacts
and the sign-out/in method.
• Coach plan: design the warm-up, the
physical training and the technical
elements the rowers will work on.
2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.3. planning 09

what’s in the float plan navigation hazards

• What route are you going to take. This On the sea there are a number of hazards
might be a GPS route, compass bearings that coastal coaches need to understand.
or line of sight.
Here is a list of potential dangers to explore:
• How long you expect to be on the water
and your estimated return time. • Shipping lanes/anchorages/firing ranges
• What is the weather forecast. The wind, • Shallows/sand banks/reefs
swell, waves, visibility etc.
• Headlands/rocks/wrecks
• The tide times and speed and direction
• Strong tidal currents (2kt+), tidal overalls,
of currents. Assess the risks of shallows,
tidal races, tidal bores.
rips, tidal overfalls, wind over tide
conditions etc. • Refracted waves off harbour walls/wind
over tide waves.
• Consider other water users and any
marine traffic. Check if there are any • Dumping shore breaks and rip currents on
‘notice to mariners’ issued by the beaches
authorities.
Tip: Put a marine chart on the notice board
• Name your emergency shelters (Plan B) showing all the navigational hazards and
and contact details of who to call for help. add any ‘no go’ zones. Some clubs put
• How you will sign-out/in. tide tables up and other important safety
information.
pictured: example of a marine chart with ’NO GO ZONE’ shown

COLREGs – rules of the road

COLREG stand for International Regulations • Recreational boats should respect buoys and marks *
I ALA Buoyage System – International
for Preventing Collisions at Sea and is a set commercial vessels, especially if they are Association of Marine Aids to Navigation
There are buoys and marks on the sea
*
of rules that all vessels on the sea should follow. restricted in their ability to manoeuvre. and Lighthouse Authorities. There are
which show navigation channels and
two systems. REGION A – used in Africa,
The simple explanation is: • Pass red to red/port to port. features like rocks and wrecks. It is worth
most of Asia, Australia, Europe and India.
learning the lateral (channel) and cardinal
• Keep to green/starboard. REGION B - used in North, Central and
• Every vessel must maintain at all times a marks in your area, as they can be helpful
South America, Japan, Korea and the
look out – big vessels can’t see very small • Overtaking vessel must keep clear (same in describing your location. Many marks
Philippines.
rowing boats. as the World Rowing Coastal Rules). have numbers or names.

2.4. pre-launching
last minute actions before getting on the water signing out Keep a small collection of nuts and bolts
with you. These kind of things are the most
There are a range of systems for signing out,
frequent losses from boats and quickest
There are five action points just before dynamic risk assessment but they all have the same key information.
to replace if you have a collection of
launching: What type of boat you are in? The number
It is the real time evaluation you take as replacements.
of people? Where you are going? When you
• Dynamic risk assessment: do this just a coach to ensure your crews are happy
plan to be back? You will also need some tools: the basics
before, especially if the conditions have and safe. There are a wide range of risks
and controls to consider. From the sea are a 10mm and a 13mm spanner, an allen
changed since your planning. Things like: - Here are some examples:
and weather conditions, to breakages and key, a tape measure, a set of pliers, a flat-
the weather is worse than forecast, one of
fatigue. To help guide you there is a dynamic • Sign-out sheet: a book in the club house headed and a cross-headed screwdriver.
your more experienced rowers can’t make
risk assessment checklist and template in where you write down the information and As you progress you will want to add some
the session, you don’t have access to the
the Coaches Toolkit section on page 52. sign back in when you return. specialist tools such as a pitch gauge and a
coach boat etc.
height stick.
• Safety checks: the people and boat safety safety checks • Responsible person on shore: a person
checks. It can be a list on the club notice onshore who will raise the alarm if you fail calling for help
Your safety checks depend on what you to return on time.
board or a laminated sheet. It may include Every member of the crew needs to know
are planning to do. A beach sprint boat will
a radio check. • Digital phone app: an app that you how to call for help. When close to or on the
have less safety items onboard compared
• Briefing: an explanation of what the plan is to a tour boat, but the safety check is just input your trip details in. If you over beach it is single arm raised and waving.
to the whole group. How long you expect as important. Refer to the three photos run your return time a named When out at sea this may be done using
to be out. What conditions to expect. on the following pages to see examples contact is automatically alerted. flares or calling MAYDAY on channel 16 on
What work will happen in the outing. What of safety checks for the three formats. https://www.safetrxapp.com/ a marine radio. Every boat should carry a
to do if things go wrong. minimum of two means of calling for help. A
safety boat single mobile phone on it own is not enough.
• Sign out: follow the clubs signing out
If you are using a safety boat it should have
procedure. This might be writing in a log-
a radio or mobile phone in a waterproof bag,
book, texting an ‘accountable person’ on
flares, a paddle, survival blanket, kill cord,
shore or radioing the harbour master.
bailer, throw line, sharp knife, megaphone
• Take boat to water: safety push or carry and a first aid kit aboard. Driver and
the boat to the water’s edge. passengers should all wear PFDs.
2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.4. pre-launching 12

safety equipment/check: beach sprint racing
crew and boat

handlers alert and
watching the waves
gates checked and

oars across boat safety boat/
fin
✓ lifeguard notified
easy release foot all sharp edges

shoes/clogs ✓ covered up
PFD for less water-

✓ confident swimmers
bung closed ✓ helmets if required

safety equipment: endurance racing and training
tow line boat ID

cox wearing
lifejacket and
suitable clothes
VHF radio/ hatch covers
crew lifejackets mobile phone
securely stowed
safety boat/coast
✓ watch notified
PFD worn by less

✓ water-confident
swimmers
sign in and out/

✓ float plan shared
easy release foot

shoes/clogs suitable footwear flares, tools and
rudder and ✓ survival blanket
bung closed fin checked as required

safety equipment: touring
lifejacket, whistle, extra clothing, tow line

wheels and fin block: 10mm and PLB VHF radio knife and multi tool
to get the boat
above the tide line
ID and visible
markings
flares
compass
grab bag: survival bags,
tools, strobe, food, mobile phone safety boat/coast
and GPS maps
✓ watch notified
water, money,
first aid kit, spare phone
✓ float plan shared

3.0. on the water
teach your rowers to get in safely.

you may like to demonstrate this
before they try it. in their earlier
attempts have someone steady
the boat.
3.0. on the water 16

S01. S02.
3.1. getting into the boat
beach launch
When launching off an open beach select B09. Cox puts the rudder in while the boat
the zone with the smallest waves and time is moving.
your entry in the lulls between wave sets.
B10. Once safely clear of the wave break,
B01. Put the blades into the gates, stop to put your feet in the shoes. S03. S04.
adjust foot stretchers and stow
water bottles. slipway launch
B02. The crew captain checks everyone
On the land adjust the footstretcher so
is ready and explains the launch.
that the thumbs are a fist and a bit apart
B03. Take the boat to the water. when sitting at back stops.
B04. In big waves keep the bows S01. Put the blades into the gates and
pointing into the waves. A few draw the handles across the boat.
boat handlers are very helpful
in deep shelving beaches. S02. Launch the boat.
B05. Rowers stand by their seats with their S03. Stand alongside the position you
S05. S06.
outside hand holding both handles. are going to sit in.
B06. Bow in a double or bow pair in a quad, S04. Hold both blade handles and press
then step, slide or climb into the down on the rigger nearest to you
boat first. with the other. Slide the seat out of
the way and place the foot nearest
B07. Rest of the crew enter the boat. the boat into the footwell.
B08. Immediately bow or bow pair start S05. Sit down and bring in the other foot.
rowing. They may be needing to
steer at this time too. S06. Put your feet in the shoes.
3.0. on the water: 3.1. getting into the boat 17

3.2. holding the blades
in sculling, there is overlap of the hands.

conventionally one rows with the left hand
over and in front of the right.
In sculling, the thumbs provide the contact to roll the blade from
square to feather by turning the handle with the fingers. Use the
thumb by circling it on the end of the handle, one way to feather and
the other to square. Excessive movement of the wrist should be
avoided, wrists remain flat.
If the sculler has the handle too much in the palm of the In rough water it is important to keep the spoons covered.
hand, the wrist is often arched; too much in the fingers and This will often mean that the handles do not stay level
the sculler cannot control the blade. Control should come and may also mean that the leading hand is the right hand
by pressing the blade out against the gate using the thumb. rather than the left for some strokes. It may also mean that
If the handle is too small or large then the sculler will also the handle is deeper into the palm of the hand to maintain
grip too hard. control.
3.0. on the water: 3.2. holding the blades 18

3.3. technique 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4
the extraction and recovery

1 1 2 2
the mechanics
of the stroke are
the same as for
olympic-style
flat water rowing.
the summary is
reproduced here 1 1 1 entry/catch
01. 5 2 5 202. drive
2 1 6 3 6 drive
03. 3 2 3 7 4 707. recovery
4 4 1 808. recovery
8 2
Raise only hands. No change in body Upper body gradually Hands move away At the beginning of
for reference. Oar enters water before position. The body takes over from leg from body at a sliding, hands are past
the leg drive begins. weight is off the seat. drive. Body starts to constant speed. the knees before the
1 1 2 2 5 3 5 3 6 4 6 4
the catch Work done by legs. open up in a natural way. slide begins. Arms are
Arms stay straight. straight. Body lean early.
and drive
This is a description
of the basics.
5 5 5 9 6 9 6 6 10 7 10 7 7 8 8 8
3 4
04. drive 3 5 505. drive 4 6
606. finish/release 9 9 7recovery 3
7 09. 10 8 10 8 entry
10. before
Legs almost finished. End of the layback. Forearms and hands At half slide upper Last part of the slide.
The upper body Arms move quickly and move oar-handles body has finished All body movement
continues to swing. strongly into the body. around in a circular and reaching forward. has finished and
The arms begin. continuous manner. concentration is on
a quick catch.
9 9 9 10 10 10
7
3.0. on the water: 3.3. technique
8 9 9 10 10
19
3.4. working the water catching green/unbroken waves
coastal rowers adapt their technique to match the shifting

energy of the water. as the waves surge and stall, coastal a: Crew feels suck b: Crew reacts to match c: Crew working to stay
down before release. the boat speed to the at 90° and in front of face
rowers must feel the changes and take advantage when they wave speed – stern is of wave.
can. this is called ‘working the water’. lifted. Feel for the surge.
Stroke rate will lift.
There are a few basic techniques to master: length and power from one side of the
boat to the other.
• Into the waves: rowing into waves is
generally just hard work. The skill is to be • Down the waves: down wave rowing (aka
surfing) is the most skillful and the most
tips for surfing on beach waves
as efficient as possible and keep the speed
as consistent as you can. Avoid crashing fun! Learn how to ‘feel’ the ‘surge- stall-
off the top of big waves. Bow should try surge’ of the sets as they pass under the
In a controlled surf the
their best to keep good technique in the hull. Catching the wave can be done with
wave is at the stern and
waves. The crew needs to learn to adapt a well timed power ‘draw’ on the blades at
the boat is running flat.
their stroke length and rate as the boat the end of the stroke. Once on the wave
speed changes. the skills is to keep the boat straight and
to hold the wave speed, so the hull does
• Side on to the waves: side waves can be not over run the wave or stall off it.
uncomfortable. It is important to watch
out for waves that risk breaking over the Beginners should learn how to get off a
surfing wave, using the shafts of their
In out-of-control surfing
the wave is overtaking the
✗
boat. When you see these coming, steer
into the wave to allow it to break over blades to kill the boat speed. This is boat, it starts to lift the
the bow quarter and run through the particularly important when surfing in stern and the bows dive.
boat. There is no one particular skill for shallow water or approaching a beach, This is called bow upending.
rowing in side waves, as each boat design when there is risk of bow ‘upending’.
is different. But the common skill is to As a crews improves they will learn to
remain loose and relaxed through your use less and less energy and be able to SAFETY: The crew should use shafts to stall the speed
body for a more stable boat. You may ‘catch’ even the smallest wave. of the boat and let the wave pass. They should come
also find you need to modify your stroke into the beach between waves.
3.0. on the water: 3.4. working the water 20

3.5. skills and drills
these exercises can also be used in doubles and

quads. here the skill requirement is to carry out
the exercises in perfect unison.
A crew that can work and move together is more efficient in boat
propulsion than a crew that is improving its blade timing.
Boat manoeuvres like turning and backing down should also be taught.
They can be incorporated into games, such as those presented in the
OVEP rowing scheme
In this section you will find specific skills and drills which will help
improve the rowing capabilities of learners.
3.0. on the water: 3.5. skills and drills 21

01.
emergency stop 01. spin turning

01. Slap Emergency Stop. This can be taught in stages.
02. Bury Emergency Stop.
01. Spin 1: at front stops, right blade
03. Turn Emergency Stop. feathers and left blade is used to
row on.
The learner stops rowing, puts the blade
flat on the water, pushes it into the water 02. Spin 2: sculler has returned to the
flat and when the boat speed has reduced, back stop position.
turns the blade square.
03. Spin 3: backing with the right hand. 02.
04. Spin 4: sliding forward and continuing
02. 03. to back with the right hand. Left blade
is feathered.
Early learners should practice alternately
backing with one hand and rowing with the
other, keeping their seat at the backstops.
Whilst one blade is working the other should
be feathered on the water.
03. 04.

Later learners can introduce a body lean,

rocking back to row on and pushing forward
01. chops 01.
from the hips to back down. The feathered
blade should run over the water surface so 01. Learner sits at the front stops.
that the handles stay together and again Back should be straight, shoulders
one blade should be feathered while the should be relaxed.
other is working. 02. Dip the blades in and out of the water
by moving the hands up and down.
The very last stage is to turn the boat
After some practice the learner should
alternately backing and rowing using full
be able to make small hand movements
slide. The learner backs down with one
to get the blade in and out and not wet
hand while sliding forwards. Having arrived
much of the oar.
at front stops the blade is feathered, the
other is squared and the learner rows a 02. Good for fine tuning the hand movements 02.
one-handed stroke. The cycle continues at the catch.
until the boat has completed its turn.
slaps
01. Learner sits in the safe position.
02. Learner presses both handles down
into the lap then releases so that
the blades drop back on to the water
surface. Repeat.
Good for balance and hand position.

hand circling 01. rock the boat 01.
01. Learner sits in the safe position. 01. Learner starts at the safe position.
02. Holding the handles, the hands are 02. Raise one hand and lower the other
rolled around one another. alternately to tip the boat from side
to side.
As the learner gets better, the circles
should get smaller so that the hands As the learner gets more confident, he
remain close together. or she should push hands away and slide
forward. Here the boat will rock over more.
Good for hand positioning and therefore 02. The biggest tips are at front stops and they
boat balance. are called rigger dips, because the tip of the
rigger will get wet. 02.
Both these exercises are good for
confidence and balance.

legs only rowing 01. square blade paddling 01.
01. Learner sits at the catch with blades 01. This is difficult for beginners,
flat on the water. Make sure the learner but worth the effort.
has a strong back position. Square
A good exercise for lots of reasons,
blades into the water and drive legs
particularly extraction. Teaches a good
using 5cm of the slide.
tap down when practiced over waves!
02. The learner should use the legs only
and remain rocked forward at the hips Start by asking for a few square blade
and arms straight. strokes without much slide, later adding
more repetitions and more slide.
As the rower improves allow more slide,
but maintain a legs-only stroke. 02. Men’s Square Blade Paddling
Good for teaching drive sequence.
Body Mechanics

wide turns and buoy turns

01. From stationary, row full length strokes 04. Drop a small plastic buoy for the boat
using the left blade. The right blade is to turn around. Add progression for
feathered and skims along the top of more able students by timing them and
the water. Do one complete 180˚ turn. asking them to beat their fastest time
Switch hands and turn the other way. and asking them to try tighter turns.
This is called a wide turn or U turn.
05. Once the rowers have mastered the
02. Repeat the same turn, but this time basics, build progression by doing
start the turn while the boat is moving. the drill in crew boats and at full
speed. Encourage experimentation
03. Repeat the above, but make the turning
and creativity in your rowers.
circle tighter by burying the shaft of
Recording and showing a video will
the inside oar in the water. As the rower
help to give feedback.
goes faster the inside hand will need to
be locked into the body of the rower.
The crew are doing a classic racing turn. Notice that the stroke person is taking
The inside blade is reversed squared, the most of the turning force on his inside
wrist is dropped and the hand is locked blade while the bow is focusing on rowing
against the body. The outside blade is the bows around. This is because the main
rowing on. pivot of the turn is centred on the fin.

hand coordination
Once your rowers have learnt to row leading with their left hand.
It will quickly become important to build their hand coordination
skills so they can row in rough water. A good way to learn is to
practice these drills:
01. Row left hand lead, with the right hand touching the elbow
of left arm in the recovery.
02. Row right hand lead.
03. Row with alternate strokes with left hand lead then right
hand lead.
04. Row right hand lead, with the left hand touching the elbow
of right arm in the recovery.

3.6. steering and calling
steering and calling are essential

coastal skills. the solo and double
use different blade pressures to
steer, while the quad has a cox
who uses a rudder to steer.
3.0. on the water: 3.6. steering and calling 28

In the solo and double when surfing waves, some coxing tips
steering adjustments for wind and tide holding a straight line becomes more
difficult the faster the boat goes. A good
When rowers stop rowing, the quad will still
crew will spend a lot of focus on steering the
be moving and until it comes to a stop, it can
boat straight, making early asymmetrical
example A: example B: be steered with the rudder. When it stops
adjustments from one side of the boat to
incorrect steering correct steering you cannot steer it with the rudder and must
the other. A mixture of shorter and longer
use the blades. The cox is a skilful part of a
strokes, increasing and decreasing the
crew and needs be encouraged and coached
direction of wind power or sharpening and slowing the catch.
to improve, just like the rowers.
or tidal current In deep waves, good steering will prevent
The crew have The crew has
a broach. A broach is when the stern goes
misjudged their made regular
faster than the bows and the boat ends up calling
steering and will steering
sideways in the wave. The quad doesn’t
need to make last corrections for
have this issue as it has a rudder, which Clear communication in a crew boat will
minute steering the effects of the
steering direction gains more turning power as the boat speed mean better coordination between the
corrections close to wind and tide.
picks up. rowers and speed up the time it takes for
the turning point. They have taken
path of boat a boat to do something. Like launching,
There is some the shortest At certain times you will have to steer the turning or doing technical drills. Some
danger of being route and have boat in a direction which means that waves common commands can be found in the
pushed onto lots of room to will hit the side of the boat. Steer up into Coaches Toolkit section on page 52.
the mark. round the mark. bigger waves to counteract the swamping
and then down the wave again when you
reach the crest. Always warn the crew if a
swamping wave is approaching. This will
Learning to steer on open water is an They are more difficult to see. Experienced allow them to prepare for the impact.
important skill to master. Sometimes a steerers will always look at the way water
turning point is difficult to see, and it is passes by a navigation buoy, as this can
helpful to use other guides like land features, often show the direction of tidal currents.
GPS, compass bearings or back markers.
When heading to a mark or rounding a buoy
Side winds or waves also affect the steering it is important to make corrections early.
line and the steerer may need to adjust to Last minute corrections can mean being
avoid being pushed below the turning point. swept onto the mark or collisions with
Tidal currents can also affect steering. other crews.
3.0. on the water: 3.6. steering and calling 29

4.0. equipment and rigging
rigging is the process whereby equipment is adjusted to

best suit a particular rower. the aim is to allow each rower
to be as effective and comfortable as possible.
4.0. equipment and rigging 30

01. 02.
Most people need some face-to-face span: 158-160cm

help when they first attempt to rig a boat.
The adjustments are not complicated but
This is the distance at each seat position
they are small and sometimes difficult to
between the middle of the bottom of the
convey on paper. The following is an outline
two pins.
which will allow the novice to practice the
measurements and adjustments. It is vital to check that each pin is the same
distance from the middle of the boat. First
It is likely that many different people will
measure across the boat noting down the
be using the same boat. The following is
distance from one side to the other level
an average rig for this situation and should
with the pins. Divide that measurement by
be used as a start point for rowers in the 03. 04.
two. Next measure from the side of the boat
height range 5 feet 4 inches (162cm) to
to the pin. Add the two numbers together.
6 feet 3 inches (192cm).
Each total should be the same throughout
the boat (images 01-03).
image references:
01. Tape measure across pins. 06. Measuring work height. 11. Adjustable footstretcher. 17. Adjusting blade length.
02. Tape measure across the boat. 07. Stretcher height. 12. Non-adjustable footstretcher. 18. Changing inboard/outboard.
03. Tape measure side of boat to pin. 08. Stretcher placement. 13. Boat adjustments. 19. Use a clam to make a quick
or temporary change to the
04. Measuring swivel pitch: zero the 09. Adjusting stretcher angle. 14. Measuring macon.
inboard/outboard.
pitch gauge.
10. As a general rule the angle should be 15. Measuring inboard.
20. The clam sits against the outer
05. Pitch gauge and pin. 42-45 degrees from horizontal.
16. Measuring cleaver. face of the collar.

05. 06.
swivel pitch: 3-5 degrees Firstly on a horizontal part of the boat (level
with the water surface when the boat is
afloat) zero your pitch gauge or app. The
All the pitch should come from the swivel
level surface of the boat is often in the
and its inserts. This means that the pin itself
footwell or along the keel because decking
should be 90 degrees to the horizontal in
can be built with a slope. Turn the swivel
all planes. There are times when having the
until it is parallel to the side of the boat. Put
pins angled slightly out (leaning away from
the gauge hard against the working face of
the mid line of the boat) can be helpful to
the swivel (the back, next to the pin). For
the rower but the simplest set up is with a
a 4+4 insert on an upright pin the reading
fully upright pin. Level the boat, clamp it
should be 4 degrees (images 04 and 05).
into position and check it is level with a spirit 07. 08.
level. If the pins are not fully upright you
may need to lever them back into position. work height: 18-20cm
To check the pins you need to remove the
swivel and use your pitch gauge on the Use a height stick placed across the boat
metal pin beneath. level with the swivels. The bottom edge
should touch both sides of the boat and the
Use the inserts. Always use the same insert far upper end should rest inside the gate.
top and bottom and across the whole boat. Work height is measured as the distance
To attain 4 degrees of pitch on the swivel between a low part of the seat and the
use the 4+4 inserts (marked on the top face bottom corner of the gate (bottom edge
of the plastic insert). of the upper arm of the height stick) in a
vertical line down to the downward curve
For 5 degrees of pitch use the 5+3 insert like 09. 10.
of the seat (image 06).
this: 5+3 at the top of the swivel (5 nearest
to the pin) 3+5 at the bottom of the swivel
(3 nearest to the pin).
Now check the pitch. Pitch gauges come

in many different forms. A downloaded
spirit level app will do the job if a more
conventional gauge is not available.

11. 12.
other boat adjustments towards the bow to increase the finish

angle and to the stern to increase catch
angle. It is important that the rower is set
feet height
up to row a comfortable stroke. Adjust the
Some boat shoes have adjustable heels footstretcher placement until your rower
which can be moved up or down (image 07). looks like the picture 06 shown on page 37
when they are sitting at backstops.
Feet too high: rower may be unable to get
shins vertical at the catch and may not be stretcher angle
able to rock over from the hips easily.
(Image 09) The rower should be able to get
Feet too low: rower may not be able to his/her heels down on to the plate below 13.
control their slide into front stops, arriving the shoes as the drive phase proceeds.
too fast or travelling too far so that they This is related to ankle flexibility. The stiffer
are over-compressed (shins beyond the the ankle, the more shallow the footplate
vertical and knee tips beyond ankles). should be to accommodate the rower.
Start by setting the heel on the middle set Some footplates are adjustable. If the
of holes and adjust gradually to suit your underneath of your footstretcher looks
rowers so that each can arrive into the catch like the one in the picture, it is adjustable.
position comfortably and under control. Loosen the two screws circled and retighten
with the adjuster pulled out to make the
stretcher position stretcher angle more shallow (image 10).
As a general rule the angle should be
(Image 08) The simplest way to measure the
42-45 degrees from horizontal.
stretcher placement is to count the notches
along the mounting bracket, starting from (Image 11) With this type of footstretcher
the bow end. the angle but not the height can be altered.
(Image 12) With the second type the angle
To change the placement loosen all nuts
nor the height can be altered.
which secure the footplate to the boat.
These are at either side and often there is a (Image 13) Boat adjustments.
third between the heels. Move the stretcher
over-compressed under-compressed just right: shin is vertical

14.
pictured: work through blade adjustments

measuring and adjusting blades:
work through
Measuring macon (image 14). This shape is
known as a macon. Macons are longer than
hatchets to achieve the same work at the
blade tip.
Outboard measurement: hook the tape

measure over the spoon tip at the mid
point. Run the tape along the shaft to the 15.
outboard edge of the collar.
Measuring inboard (image 15). The inboard

measurement includes the thickness of the
collar and should include the rounded end of
the handle.
Ideally macon blades should be 296-298cm

long for coastal rowing. Set the inboard
between 87-90cm.
Measuring cleaver (image 16). This shape

work through with the working face of the swivels at the is known as a hatchet, big blade or cleaver. 16.
front of the runners. The aim is to minimise Outboard measurement: The tape measure
the boat pitching in the water as the rowers should run along the mid line of the shaft to
This is determined by footstretcher position the outboard edge of the collar and should
slide fore and aft because pitch slows the
and runner placement. Set in the range plus be hooked over the far edge of the spoon in
boat. In the picture above the seat has run
5cm to minus 5cm, work through is zero line with the shaft, as shown in this picture.
past the working face of the gate, the work
when the front wheels of the seat are level
through is therefore positive.

17. 18.
Adjusting blade length (image 17). Ideally hatchet blades should be 286-289cm outboard
The length of some blades can be changed. long for coastal rowing. Set the inboard
Some makes, like the one shown in between 86-88cm.
the picture, have screws on the shaft.
Loosen these carefully (not too much), Short people should use short blades. inboard
tap gently to loosen if the adjustment Taller people use longer blades with
is frozen and pull the handle out to longer inboards.
lengthen or push in to shorten.
Use a clam to make a quick or temporary
Another type has a screw in the domed change to the inboard/outboard (image 19).
handle end with which to lengthen or
This will increase the inboard and decrease
shorten the blade. There is a retaining collar 19. 20.
the outboard by the same amount and make
to loosen on this type. Some blades have
the rowing feel easier.
wooden handles. These are not adjustable
for length. The clam sits against the outer face of the
collar (image 20).
Changing inboard/outboard (image 18).
Loosen the collar by unscrewing it at the
side. Move it along the grooved sleeve,
being careful to reseat the collar into the
grooves of the sleeve before retightening.
Move the collar towards the handle to

reduce the inboard. With blades adjustable
for length, making them longer increases
the inboard unless the collar is moved
to compensate.

coastal gearing
The gearing for coastal and classic rowing the same boat. The boats are set to a
is very similar, despite the fact the coastal standard rig and crews are not allowed to
boats are wider and shorter. There are two make changes to the rig. Other than the
main reasons for this. In rough water the distance of the foot stretcher and adjusting
stroke tends to be less accurate and so the their blades.
actual gearing is less. The speed of coastal
boats when going down wind or surfing can Individual set-ups for crews is best done on
be faster than classic boats. The crew will the blades, by adjusting the length overall,
need enough gearing to allow for steering the in-board and the out-board. Teams
strokes at these high speeds to avoid preparing for races are encouraged to train
broaching or simply to keep on the wave. on the standard rig and to bring their own
oars to regattas.
Some say coastal rowers are like mountain
bikers and need lots of different gears. While coastal racing standard rig:
classic rowers are more like track cyclists
Tolerance
and only really use one fixed gear, as their
speed is very consistent over the duration Span 158cm ± 1cm
of their race. Coastal rowers adjust their Gate height 18cm or
gearing by frequently changing their stroke max
length and rate, as the boat speed varies.
Heigh Bowside ± 0.5cm
difference 1cm lower
standard rigs Stern pitch 5º ± 1º
Lateral pitch 0.5-1.0º ± 0.5º
In many coastal clubs the masters, men, pictured: a coach is measuring and adjusting the blade at the WRCC
women and juniors may all share the same Stretcher 42º (flatter ± 2º
boats, this means that each club tends to angle than 45º)
have a standard rig.
Recommended (Hatchet)
FISA have a standard rig for the pool boats Length oar: 286-289cm
at races, where multiple crews are using Inboard: 86-88cm

5.0. training
this is a suggestion on how you

might start your beginner training.
5.0. training 37
5.1. learning the basics
• Swim and float test every rower before • Continue water work with skill drills and
allowing them on to the water. If on a games, these help refine good technique.
beach, conduct a beach orientation and
• Build the crews understanding of the
rescue briefing.
local wave conditions and start to teach
• First lessons on safe lifting and launching. ‘working the water’ skills. Teach how to
Teach basic terminology. catch and get off a wave.
• Build the understanding of the local sea • Teach how to warm up and warm down
features, the navigation channels and the effectively.
role of the crew captain.
• Commence fitness training with cross
• Progress to getting in and out, also simple training activities like running, cycling
manoeuvres (backing down, turning, or swimming.
stopping). Keep boats on a tether until
• Rowing-specific fitness training should
rowers have mastered these simple skills.
start on the ergometer, later in the boat
• Teach capsize and re-entry drills as soon when the skill levels have improved
as possible, make sure this includes man (this could be weeks or even months
overboard. Include lessons on using a after the first steps).
tow line.
• Introduce race-specific drills
• Teach good technique using the rowing e.g. boat entry/exit, racing turns,
machine (ergometer) and teach small starts and navigation.
groups in boats.
• Use calm water at first. Gradually
• Teach coxes as well as crew if coaching introduce more demanding conditions as
a quad. the rowers gain in skill and confidence.
5.0. training: 5.1. learning the basics 38

5.2. learning to race boat handlers

The crew is supported by 2 boat handlers. the runner at the finish. Boat handlers
They are important part of a team and should be familiar with beach features
The true test of a coastal rower’s technique b. Slalom row: here the crew will use their should be at training sessions and receive (like rips, dumping waves, local wildlife and
is rough water. The skill to adapt the basic sprint rowing speed and accurate boat coaching in how to get better. These should how to call for help), know how to lift the
rowing technique to different types of wave placement to navigate the 2 slalom include aspects like checking and preparing boat safely and have done the swim test.
and boat speeds, is called ‘working the buoys in the shortest distance and the boat after lane selection, handling the If they are not confident swimmers they
water’. The basic principles are to keep the fastest time possible. boat during the start, steering the crew, should wear a PFD.
body relaxed and to create as much room how to receive the arriving boat and guiding
c. 180˚ turn: the crew will make use of the
for your blades by tapping down at the finish
boat speed into the turn by shafting and
and moving them away from your body at
the end of the stroke. Most coastal rowers
then reverse squaring their inside blade, coaches phases in beach sprint
while rowing on their outside blade.
tend to have a minimum rate of 22spm, and
a slightly smaller ratio between the drive d. Return row: on the return row the 85m
phase and the recovery phase. to the first slalom buoy requires ‘spatial d: return row c: 180˚ turn
awareness’ to get right as there are turn buoy
Rowing speed, Power and spatial
race techniques and tactics few reference points to navigate off.
spatial awareness awareness (5%)
The crew may catch a wave all the way
and boat
There are two global racing formats: beach in or feel the ‘suck down’ in the trough.
slalom positioning (41%)
sprint and endurance. Both test rowers’ If they are on the same wave as their buoy 2
opposition the race is still open.
250m
speed, turning point power, steering b: slalom row
accuracy and the ability to ‘work the water’. e: arrival and
e. Arrival and boat exit: as the crew Rowing speed, spatial
In the beach sprint and depending on the boat exit
approaches the beach they hopefully will slalom awareness and boat
venue for endurance, the transition time buoy 1
have picked up a wave and be rating in the Boat positioning positioning (42%)
between the land and the sea also matters.
high 40s. The crew should be coached and agility (6%)
to keep the speed up as they approach wave break
beach sprint technique the beach or to know when to drop back
zone a: boat entry
off a risky wave. As the bows touch the Running speed,
The key technical elements for beach sprint beach balance and agility
sand the runner will sprint up to the finish
can be divided into 5 sections. start and (6%)
line. While the remaining crew and boat finish line
a. Boat entry: a run, followed by a clean handlers manage the boat in the waves.
placement of feet, seat and hands into the See laying training buoys on page 45 for
boat, followed by an accurate first stroke. some guidance on set up a training course. *
See www.worldrowing.com for the format Rules.
5.0. training: 5.2. learning to race 39

sprint boat entry C1x Note entry side oar is parallel to boat
01. 02. 03.
01. Pivot leg placement 02. Pivot body around pivot leg and step into boat 03. Entry leg placement in middle of boat
04. 05.
04. Sit and grasp handles 05. Row

beach 180º racing turn: solo

a. Approach close to the buoy – when
the bows are in line with the buoy –
SHAFT hard on stoke side with handle b.
supported on chest
b. Row hard on bow side focusing the
power in the first half of the stroke
where there is the greatest turning
moment. As required bring stroke
side oar onto a reverse square –
try to keep the blade close to the
stern to improve the turning moment
c. As soon as the boat comes out of the
turn start to accelerate the boat to
top speed and make any final steering
adjustments. Accurate steering is
critical in this 85m, until the first
slalom buoy becomes a reference.
Hint: Use a back marker.
c.
a.

sprint boat exit C1x
01. 02. 03.
01. Bows touch the sand boat slows – feet are freed 02. Legs swing around 90° – pivot on seat 03. Foot plant, with weight transfer onto feet
05.
04. Final 90° twist and acceleration into running.

endurance racing technique

In the endurance format, the crew race boat speed accelerates thus the rowing how to use the wind and tide to position In endurance races, the course can be
4-6km thus technical and physical skills are style/technique should change. your boat to your advantage. See the complex to navigate. It takes time and
crucial. As a coach spend time teaching the diagram for an example. practice to become good at spotting distant
crews to recognize when and how to adapt The start is either a mass beach start or turning points amongst the waves and
their rowing style to different conditions. mass water start. There is typically an The basic interference rules* say the crew visual ’clutter’ of the shore. Build the skills of
advantage in getting into the lead group. being overtaken shall keep clear of the boat your rowers by setting training courses with
In a strong headwind, bow waves or negative The water tends to be cleaner and the it is overtaking and the crew being overtaken different challenges and shapes. See the
tide currents the crews need to use their potential for multi-boat collisions is less. shall maintain its racing line. It is worth noting diagram on advice on laying buoys for training.
skill to minimize the slowdown. In tailwind, Avoiding collisions with other boats at the in coastal rowing the fastest route is not always
stern waves or positive tides currents the first few turning point is important. Learn straight and it is common for blades to touch. *
See worldrowing.com for the rules.

keeping clear at a turn point

a. This crews is in the most dominant
position. It has the most options and
the smallest risk of a time penalty or a direction of wind
crash. It will also be travelling fastest or tidal current
into the turn
b. This crew has the fastest line. Is at risk
from a penalty or a crash from at best
one side at worst both
c. This crew has misjudged the impact of
the wind/tide on their steering and is
forced to make a last minute correction.
This is a high risk position and the crew
should slow/stop to avoid a collision or
penalty with boat B or A.
a. c.
b.

laying training buoys
here are some simple examples of turning marks and ways to measure distance on the water
beach sprint (1-5m depth) endurance (+2m depth) measuring distance

• Cigar buoy with 15kg deadweight in pocket • Large buoy with hanging deadweight 5kg • Beach sprint – use a laser rangefinder (see golf or shooting )
• 10mm elastic rope (1-5m) • Rope 2-3x the depth as GPS is not accurate enough
• 10-15kg deadweight (concrete bucket) • Anchor + chain • Endurance – use a GPS or a marine chartbucket
• Shackles • Spinner for safety
• Shackles

5.3. annual training
writing an annual training

programme is a specialist
area and beyond the scope
of this booklet. as a coach
you will need help with this if
you have not written such a
programme before.
5.0. training: 5.3. annual training 46

the general principles are that the programme needs

to provide:
• Progressive overload: a gradual increase once the basic skills are in place. This would
in the volume and intensity of training. build gradually to 70-90 minutes sessions
over a period of months.
• A focus on the goal activity. In early weeks
the goal might be to improve skills, later Beach sprint also requires anaerobic training
to build endurance fitness, later still (40-20%), which would include power
strength and last race skills. training, lactate tolerance and repeat sprint
• Continuous and regular training to training. The beach sprint race is made up
maximise gains. of 12% running, boat entry and exit, 83%
rowing and 5% turning.
• Planned recovery between sessions.
Hard sessions should be followed by light
• A means of measuring progress.
sessions to aid recovery or even a day
• A plan which uses phases. Within off. Shorter sprint rows will be included in
each phase there should be a menu of the training using the same progressive
activities which will enhance the aerobic principle.
(endurance) and anaerobic (sprint)
capabilities of your rowers. The phases When designing a programme, build in
alternate light, medium and heavy transitions and turns related to the race
training weeks. format you are training for. Spend time on
the technical aspects of starts, turns, on
Both beach sprint (60-80%) and endurance working the water and surfing waves.
(+95%) require a high level of endurance
(aerobic) fitness. It is important to spend a Always be aware of stresses and strains
high proportion of early training working in in your rowers’ lives as these can affect
this less intense zone. For beginners, this the quantity of sessions and the quality
would start with 20-30 sessions paddles of their rowing.
5.0. training: 5.3. annual training 47

6.0. boathouse
a boathouse could be as simple as an adapted

shipping container near the water.
6.0. boathouse 48
The smallest size boathouses are only Boats must be racked in ways which are safe
suitable for storing spares and oars. for the rowers and the boats so that neither
The 12m container is the most useful, and are damaged. This means sufficient space
with the correct adaptations, can be used to for lifting and manoeuvring out to the water
house a wide range of equipment including and a wide vertical gap between racks.
doubles and singles. Racking for oars is advisable and a space
to store throw lines, spares, tools and first
The container will need a solid level base 50x50x3mm
aid kit. clearance
to rest on. It may need some airflow if box section
the atmosphere is humid, and a padlock Containers can be very dark at the back and holes
or some protective fencing around it to some battery powered lighting is useful.
secure the equipment.
A notice board can be attached to the door
Inside boats can be racked by securing thick and used to display a map of the water,
metal gallows brackets to the outer wall. first aid technique, emergency telephone
numbers and other local safety information.
The diagram shows a bracket for a single.
The horizontal box section needs to be at
least 1000mm long for a double without
the riggers on. 6mm welded
strength plate
6mm plate
800mm
6.0. boathouse 49
6.1. coastal rowing boat hangar: suggested dimensions
container
goals for boathouse Make it easy to get Move the boats with Store as many boats
Length: 12.19m (outside), 12.00m (inside) heavy boats in and out; enough people to as you can safely.
in container:
make lifting easy;
Width: 2.45m (outside), 2.30m (inside)
Height: 2.60m (outside), 2.36m (inside)
boat measurements: 2CX pictured: boathouse American Samoa
Length: 7.50m
Width: 0.92m with folding rigger
1.60m with fixed rigger
Height: 0.50m
Other: 1.35m distance between fin/stern boat
boat measurements: 1CX
Length: 6.00m
Width: 1.60m with fixed rigger
Height: 0.40m
Other: 1.25m distance between fin/stern boat
6.0. boathouse: 6.1. coastal rowing boat hangar 50

There are many different designs for fitting boats into container boathouses. A good
2.3m
solution is suggested here (fig.1). The container is divided into floors and increases
the number of stored boats by using wheeled carriages.
It is possible to have four floors in a container boathouse. This is achieved by fixing in three
0.5m
sets of wooden cross beams to the long sides of the container using strong bolts to support
a chipboard floor on top of each set (fig.1).
• Put each boat on to a set of wheels. These • Use the top three floors for singles and
can be made from shopping trolleys. The doubles leaving the bottom for heavy
wheels need to support the boat at each quads (fig.2).
end of the saxboard.
0.6m
12m
2.3m door
2.36m
0.6m
fig.2
in this example (fig.2):

• A rower can slide out a boat with a second • Rowers should be aware that lifting and
rower lifting the far end as it emerges. carrying can damage equipment unless
0.63m
done correctly. They should be careful to

• Up to seven boats can be stored with six
avoid hitting riggers and fins because this
doubles or singles above a quad.
can cause damage.
• There is room on the floor to store oars
and other equipment.
fig.1
6.0. boathouse: 6.1. coastal rowing boat hangar 51

7.0. coaches toolkit
some useful checklists, templates

and guides to help you.
7.0. coaches toolkit 52

Capsize 01
Footstretcher
In cold climates this is a key rescue skill. If you are not able to re-enter the boat, pull
7.1. rescue drills Waiting to be rescued should always be yourself onto the upturned hull to reduce
a last resort. There is a risk that the boat the risk of hypothermia. A capsizer should
may drift away from shore and further into only leave the boat if it is drifting into danger
danger. Capsized rowing boats are low in (e.g. if it is within a breaking wave line. In this
Capsize 01
there are three rescue drills you want your crews to practice the water and hard for the rescue services case the rower could chose02
Capsize to push away
to spot. from the boat to avoid being hit by the hull).
each year
the swim and float drill in open water. They will be more confident capsize practice
Footstretcher
because they will know what to expect.
For your beginners use a swimming pool
with a lifeguard if you can. In rowing kit Practice in a solo boat. It is the easiest
swim 50m, and keep their head above boat to tip over and also the easiest to
water unassisted for 3 minutes. get upright again. The skills that you
teach can be used in bigger boats.
Immerse the head below the water, float
for at least two minutes after putting on a Here’s how to do it:
lifejacket in the water. This drill is particularly Capsize and recovery drill Push the handles behind
Capsize 01
beneficial for clubs that row on cold water as Safety capsizing Capsize 02
you. Let go.
Ergometer
it will help rowers to cope with the cold-water Capsize 03
Capsize 01
shock. Less confident swimmers should wear This basic drill can be performed in stages.
PFDs. When running this session make sure Firstly without blades in the gates and feet
you have a good ratio of coaches & lifeguards
Footstretcher on top of the shoes (the boat will need
to rowers. If operating in moving and cloudy to be held steady). Next with feet in the
water, take extra caution. Consider using a
Footstretcher shoes. Only when the learner is confident
buddy look out system and swimming along are blades put in the gates and the full
the shoreline. drill practiced.
capsize and re-entry drill There are two re-entry methods, a belly
slide up the stern or over the side. Both
Have throw lines and dry clothes available
methods require the rower to keep their
if you are outdoors, or if either the air or the Anchor your hands on When you are upside Push the rigger on your
body weight low and a final twist into the Capsize 02 Ergometer
water is likely to be cool. something solid. Lean down, release your side down with your foot,
rowing position. Capsize 03
over the side of the boat. feet from the shoes. whilst pulling the other
By getting your learners to practice in a safe Capsize 02 Ergometer
Come up next to the Capsize
side 04and towards you.
over
It is important to teach them how to
environment you are making them able to cope overturned boat.
re-enter the boat and get rowing again.
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.1. rescue drills 53

Should someone fall out of a quad then a to minimise tipping. An unconscious towing
man overboard rescue is appropriate. rower may be hauled over the side of a
Instructors should learn how to throw and slowly tow the boat to safety. Empty
counterbalanced boat. To counterbalance
man overboard drill and coil a line and keep one close by when quads have a habit of not holding a straight
one or two rowers, shift their weight
they are teaching. If you haven’t got a line, the cox can keep the quad straight
• Crew stops rowing. away from the rower in the water
throw line at your boathouse find a rope using the rudder.
towards the other side of the boat.
• Nominated crew member takes command 15-20 metres long.
Rocking the boat helps extract the In most cases the solo and double can
to spot the man overboard and guide the rower from the water.
crew back to the rower in the water by using When setting up a tow line, tie the tow line be rescued by being placed on the top of
commands to back down, turn or row on. to the cleat on the bows. When towing a the safety boat, rather than needing to
In a real capsize, coaches should not go into
quad it is helpful to keep the cox in the boat be towed.
the water to rescue, you may become in
• Rower in the water is directed to the stern
need of a rescue yourself if you do!
and helped to re-enter the boat there
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.1. rescue drills 54

7.2. commands
coxes and callers should deliver commands

which the entire crew can hear. this will involve
speaking clearly and slowly as well as sufficient
in volume to reach the bow rower.
if this is not possible, then a rower in the
middle of the boat should be instructed to
repeat the commands.
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.2. commands 55

some commonly used

commands:
• ‘Hands On’: The coxswain is in charge of
the crew when lifting the boat from its
rack or trolley and this is the command to
get everybody ready with their ‘hands on’
the boat.
• ‘Number Off when Ready’: This is used
when the crew is in the boat and has
pushed away from the shore or pontoon
and are confirming they are ready to
row. It is usual for each crew member to
shout out the number of their seat, in
order, starting with the bow seat which
is number one. If someone is not ready
then they will not shout their number.
• ‘Go’: A command only ever takes effect
when the cox shouts ‘go’ to make sure
more advanced:
that the whole crew acts together,
e.g. ‘hands on, are you ready, lift, go’. When preparing to surf a
wave the cox or caller will
• ‘Are you ready’: Used to make sure need to tell the crew to
everybody is ready for the command expect a change of rowing
which follows. rate. This could be ‘get
To get the crew to row the cox might say • ‘Easy oar’ means stop rowing. A good way for the cox
• ‘Back down’: Used to reverse the boat. ready to go with stroke’
‘Whole crew, back stops, are you ready, to use this would be ‘next stroke, easy oar’ in time
or ‘wave coming, go with
• ‘From backstops’: This is the command paddling light, go’. with the rowing so that the crew stop all together.
it’. The crew will harden up
for a stationary crew to get ready to row, • ‘Wind down/slow down’: The order • ‘Hold it up’ means do an emergency stop and is just before the bottom of
It makes sure that everyone starts in to slow the rate and ease off on the used if the boat or crew are in danger of collision the ‘pull down’ to catch the
the same position, which is with the legs rowing pressure. or accident. wave and then the stroke
down flat and the handles at the body. will build the rate as the
boat accelerates.
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.2. commands 56

7.3. dynamic risk assessment checklist
This checklist can guide a coach as part of an assessment of live risks during or just before
going on the water. It should be used to support a club’s generic risk assessment for the
training location. controls:
hazards:
rowing boat rower capability
water state beach state 01 suitability/condition of boat 18 rowing skill level
01 swell/waves 15 beach condition 02 suitable clothing 19 experience in surf/beach
02 water quality 16 slope of beach 03 pfd/life jackets 20 experience in harbour water
03 wind direction 17 headlands, groynes etc. 04 tow line 21 experience offshore (>1km)
04 wind strength 18 seaweed/debris 05 grab bag (>1km) 22 support for specific needs
05 depth of water 19 rocks, pebbles, sand 06 radio & phone (>400m) 23 all completed swim test
06 tidal current 20 other 07 extra floatation (>1km) 24 beach familiarization
07 other 08 fluids & snacks (>400m)
weather conditions other factors
09 personal locator device/gps
wave break 21 wind speed 25 safety briefing
08 wave type (spilling/dumping) 22 visibility/available light safety 26 crew captain appointed
09 wave break height 23 sun exposure heat/cold 10 lifeguard on duty (beach) 27 equipment safety check
10 waves frequency 11 coach trained & first aid kit 28 membership/entry form
other risk factors
11 shape of beach 12 specific safety/first aid cover 29 signing out complete
risk of bow piercing beach (up 24 marine traffic/other water users
12 13 float plan shared (>400m) 30 welfare system in place
ending) 25 number of rowing boats
14 safety boat & throw line
13 rip current
26 length of planned session
15 communication (radio, phone)
14 other distance of from shore/nearest
27 16 access to emergency services
shelter
28 age, health and fitness of rowers 17 shelters along route (>400m)
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.3. dynamic risk assessment checklist 57

7.4. dynamic risk assessment template
additional action required:

(beyond generic club/venue risk assessment and controls)
date & time: coaches/crew captain: hazard additional controls risk (L-M-H)
01
venue: safety/lifeguard:
02
03
nature of water
session:
04
boats:
rowers (numbers &

low risk is low – no extra controls required – proceed with caution
group/experience):
medium risk is medium – take action extra controls needed
high risk is high – stop until hazards are reduced
forecast wind
high tide :
speed:
checks and briefings
forecast wind
low tide:
direction: float plan complete & shared (>400m) beach familiarization complete
boat checks complete session briefing complete

sunrise/sunset: swell/wave ht:
safety equipment checks complete sign out complete
water/air temp (air/
quality: water): suitable clothing complete radio/comms check complete
coach/crew
captain
signature:
7.0. coaches toolkit: 7.4. dynamic risk assessment template 58

acknowledgements
Sallie Malt and Guin Batten
For development of the content, use of her photos
and overall involvement in this project.
Guin Batten
For her guidance as chair of the FISA Rowing for
All Commission.
Experts feedback
Andrew Couper, Vincent Tassery, Pasquale Triggiani,
Guin Batten, Sallie Malt, Ana Kazz, Nikos Gountoulas,
Julien Bahain, Monika Briedyte.
Yihuan Chang
For editing the content and making this book possible as
part of the FISA Coaching and Development Programme.
Image Credits
Fiona Carmichael, James Lovering, Mayflower Offshore
Rowing Club, Nick Copley, Bob Cottell, Tim Fenemore,
Detlev Seyb, Igor Meijer, Guin Batten, Sallie Malt,
John Parker.
Brochure design:
Positive change
through design.
www.tandt.design
59
coastal
rowing
1st edition, July 2020
60

1615 Coastal Rowing 14a English

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coastal

They are traditional skills, and many have

I want to thank the coaches and rowers

pictured: CMix2x racing at the World Rowing

coastal rowing racing is one of the fastest growing

what is coastal rowing?

1.1. coastal boats solo: 1x double: 2x quad: 4x+

There are three types of boats: the solo solo: 1 rower

quad: 4 rowers with cox

max length: 10.70m (35ft 1in)

1.0. introduction: 1.1. coastal boats 06

pictured: safety kit on a boat

pictured insert: buoyancy aid (left),

2.0. preparing to go afloat 07

2.1. safety 2.2. managing a water session

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.1. safety 08

• Rowers: list your rowers. Make sure you

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.3. planning 09

what’s in the float plan navigation hazards

pictured: example of a marine chart with ’NO GO ZONE’ shown

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.3. planning 10

COLREGs – rules of the road

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.3. planning 11

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.4. pre-launching 12

safety equipment/check: beach sprint racing

crew and boat

gates checked and

easy release foot all sharp edges

PFD for less water-

bung closed ✓ helmets if required

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.4. pre-launching 13

safety equipment: endurance racing and training

tow line boat ID

PFD worn by less

sign in and out/

easy release foot

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.4. pre-launching 14

safety equipment: touring

lifejacket, whistle, extra clothing, tow line

✓ float plan shared

2.0. preparing to go afloat: 2.4. pre-launching 15

3.0. on the water

teach your rowers to get in safely.

3.0. on the water 16

3.1. getting into the boat

3.0. on the water: 3.1. getting into the boat 17

3.2. holding the blades

in sculling, there is overlap of the hands.

3.0. on the water: 3.2. holding the blades 18

the extraction and recovery

3.4. working the water catching green/unbroken waves

coastal rowers adapt their technique to match the shifting

3.0. on the water: 3.4. working the water 20

3.5. skills and drills

these exercises can also be used in doubles and

3.0. on the water: 3.5. skills and drills 21

emergency stop 01. spin turning

3.0. on the water: 3.5. skills and drills 22

Later learners can introduce a body lean,