(Frequently asked questions)

Do I have to be an experienced rower?

No, we welcome all those who are interested in rowing, or are experienced.

What is the youngest age acceptable?

A tricky one this.  There is a lot of load placed on the muscles and bones.  So I will not give a specific age but rather say that once somebody has reached ‘physical maturity’ then come along.  Girls mature sooner and there is a wide range of ages for both sexes when this happens.

What is the difference between rowing and sculling?

Rowing is with one oar per person.
Sculling is with two oars per person.
They are quite different disciplines and both need to be coached.
“Rowing” is often used as a generic term for both disciplines.

What is ‘sweep’ rowing?

This is usually used in North America as a description of rowing with one oar.  “I row sweep”, or “I scull”.

Do I need to be very fit?

Well it will certainly help.  A good level of fitness will help you to learn more quickly.  It is preferable that you establish a good level of fitness before starting your rowing career.

 I have a bit of a back problem.  Can I row?

Please consult a sports doctor before considering rowing.  This is the case for any physical ailment.

Do I need a lot of arm strength?

No.  Most of the power comes from the legs during the drive element of the row, and then finished off with a strong shoulder movement to clear the oar from the water.  The arms are basically used as a connector between your shoulder and the oar handle.

Imagine having to walk around on your hands all day!  Can’t be done!  Yet you can walk all day.  That is why we use our leg muscles predominantly.

What should I wear?

- Tops
We start off sculling.  The hands overlap during the stroke and end up against one’s chest.  So please, no baggy tops otherwise your thumbs will get caught in your shirt and the boat will become unstable.  A form-fitting top is best.  If it is windy then bring a windbreaker to stay warm while waiting on the dock.  Once rowing you will warm up very fast.

- Shorts
Cycling-type shorts are best and something with a thickish seat.  Just nothing too baggy please.

- Gloves
Sorry, no.  Sculling is all about ‘feel’ for the boat; that cannot be achieved with gloves.  We will show you how to hold (not GRIP) the oars so as to minimise the risk of blisters.

Please do not wear rings or necklaces.  Rings induce blisters and necklaces can get caught in your oars and ‘over you go’!

What else should I bring?

- Plenty of water
- Sun block greater than factor 20
- A hat
If you have ‘aqua shoes’ then these are very good for rowing.  We have some very good lace-up aqua shoes for $20 ($10 for children).  You can buy anywhere but we are trying to raise funds.

What about the social side?

This is VERY important to us.  We generally meet up every two weeks at BMDS to meet other rowers and make new friends.  Rowing is a very sociable sport as we go through quite a lot together.  We also meet at members’ homes for parties and regattas.

What does this wonderful sport cost?

Please see the membership form on the web site as the costs very with age.  [$500 to be a Patron (we are a charity) $300 for adults and $150 for those under 19].
If a young person is unable to pay for the cost then as long as they are willing to meet certain criteria the Association will consider facilitating their coaching.

You may like to consider comparing the membership cost with buying your own sculling boat ($5-$7,000 landed) or sharing the cost of a four-person boat ($21,000 landed).

My company donates funds to youth projects.  Would you appreciate some funding?

If it is not too much trouble; yes please.  We are trying to get rowing introduced into the schools to encourage self-confidence, self-worth, pulling together, responsibility and how to be a gracious winner or non-winner.