the good

6
R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s
ON T H E w A TEr
 6
6 .1 Introduction p5

the good
6.2 To s t a r t a c r e w r o w i n g p6
6.3 Aligning a boat before rowing p8
P o s s i b l e c o m m a n d s c e n a r i o s f o r a l i g n i n g a b o a t 10

6.4 Commands and Confidence p16

6.5 Checklist before saying ‘go’ p17
6.6 Warm-Up Routine Commands p20
R ESPONSIBILITIES 6.7 Basic coxswain commands
ON T H E W A TE R while training p22
When and how commands should be given 22
Giving the command to stop rowing 23
Giving the command to stop the boat 24
Giving the command to turn the boat 25
W h e r e t o t u r n t h e b o a t 26
How to stop the boat from drifting 28
W h e r e a b o a t i s l e s s l i k e l y t o d r i f t 29
Commands to avoid drift 30

6.8 Communicating with the Coach p32

S i g n a l s f o r C o x & C o a c h 32
Helping the coach 34

6.9 Steering the boat p36

Anticipating a turn 36
O v e r s t e e r i n g 37
N a v i g a t i n g t u r n s & s t r a i g h t s 38
Using the oars to steer a course 39

6 .10 Tra f f i c G u i d e l i n e s p40

A practical scenario for applying water
traffic guidelines p42
T r a f f i c s c e n a r i o - m a k i n g t h e r i g h t d e c i s i o n p44

6 .11 How to handle motorboat wash p46

Quick Glossary p48

The Good Coxswain knows... p50

 “Take one
coxswain and
just add
water... ” 6.1
the good

I NTRO DUC TI O N
6
There is no more forlorn a figure than a small inexperienced coxswain
being set adrift on a waterway for the very first time. It’s as if the umbilical
cord between coach and cox has been severed and the great tide of human
events is quickly sweeping the novice coxswain down river without a paddle!
It is a familiar scene and an experience all potential and novice
coxswains will wish to avoid. 
Thankfully, coaches are rarely so cruel. They prepare their coxswain
with helpful advice, practical observations and hours of patient
instruction. They point them toward helpful resources and introduce
them to fellow coxswains for ongoing support. By the time the coxswain
has been pushed away from the bank he knows:

Why he is there

What is expected of him

How he can control the boat’s direction

What he can say and needs to say to the crew

Where he can go, must go and how he is to get back

6.2 TO START A CREW ROWING
y
c h is t he dela
It is appropriate to refer to a coxswain as the ‘driver’ of the boat. And like a coa begin
a driver of a motor vehicle, a coxswain is unable to do very much ‘driving’ p e t h ates as c rew to
o f m y t h e
On e g fo r re so
e as kin
unless he first knows how to ‘start’ the boat.
e e n m to b e gin. The
betw em sk
The coxswain has a voice for this purpose and each time the boat is to move
c o x t elling th n e c tio n. If I a
from a stationary position the cox must start the crew with the following and the discon ean now
.
e m s to be a ” - I m
command sequence: e t, “NOW
often s to star tion is ov
er
c re w v e rs a
for the e con th eir
m e a n when th sted o r
o n ’t a d ju
Id b een
c lo t h es h ave
or d.
e a t h as drie kin d an d w
ait
COMMAND RESPONSE CAUTION
sw s o
r be
r t e r will neve ta star
t line.
A st a re g a t
the
rew at Brien, C
oach
“Sit-up” or “Sit forward ” for a c K e vin O’

Crew moves to the front of the slide, arms outstretched, and oar square in
the water. This is called the catch position.

The crew is assumed to be ready to row once they have moved to this 
position. A word of warning to make ready. Some or all of the crew may be
directed here. The cox must be sure the boat is straight before proceeding
to the next call in heavy traffic areas.

“Are you ready? ”or “Attention ” O n e thin

g I’ve n o
rus h th r ticed is
o ug h th e h o w b eg
“Sit up, a in n er co
Crew anticipates the taking of a stroke as they sit in the necessary position, Although re yo u r xes
boat balanced. you don’t e a d
not read e x pect a c y , r o w.”
y,” the c rew to s
This is the final warning. It is a rhetorical question and no response is s ettle b o x s hould giv a y “N o , I’m
expected from the crew. The coach will often prefer the cox to use etween e the cr
“attention” as it is the same command used by a starter in regattas. cox is to e a c h co m m an e w t im e to
n ot give d. M y ad
that the t h e n ext co vic e to a
earlier m m an d
“Row! ”or “Go! ” Everyo n c o m m and has u n t il s ure
e s h o uld been ac
a n d th e b e s it tin g still t e d upon.
The crew members initiate movement on the slide to lever the oar through bo at b ala with o ar
the water and move the boat forward. happens n c e d - do n’t s b u ried
. But do st a r t u n
do it quic n’t w a it t il t his
too long
In regattas the command will be “go”. The coxswain should speak the word kly! - the cr
with control and with appropriate volume. The cox must be sure that each
ew should
oar is buried in the water before making the call. George B
allinger,
Coach
 6.3 HOW TO ALIGN
A BOAT B E FO R E R OWI N G
The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. There are two main reasons why a coxswain must give his commands
The good coxswain will be sure to have the boat fully aligned before the for direction change without delay. Firstly, tide, wash or wind can move
crew commences rowing. It is best to take a few extra seconds to be a crew from course very quickly; the longer a coxswain leaves the
assured of a straight, uninterrupted course than to be asking the crew to command to adjust course after the boat has strayed from alignment,
stop or adjust their stroke immediately after starting. the more adjustment will be needed. Secondly, a regatta day starter
However, it is often necessary to make adjustments after the crew has will not wait for all boats to be straight before calling “attention, go!”
stopped rowing or before the session has fully commenced - the rudder The good coxswain will apply in training what will be necessary
cannot achieve this as the boat is not moving. in racing - i.e. alert, precise and quick calls!
Under normal circumstances, the rule of thumb should be to ask the crew (refer to the Booklet 9 - Race Day – Starting and Racing).
to ‘sit up’ (refer to pg 6 - Command Chart) and then ascertain, with a quick Prior to the crew rowing, the coxswain (whose job it is to align a boat that
observation, if the bow of the boat is aligned with a distant point of reference. has strayed from a straight course) has a sequence of commands that
If the coxswain, for example, should see the top of distant building (or tree) in may be followed (refer to Booklet 2 - Steering the Boat – Using the Oar).
the direction he wishes to travel then it can be used as a navigation point.
The choice of command available to a cox to straighten a boat will be
The bow ball can be ‘aimed’ at the building and remain ‘aimed’ at the
dictated by these common variables:
building for the duration of the row in that direction. If there is a bend or turn,
then the navigational point will cease to be relevant once at the bend. The
good coxswain will choose another navigational point once around the bend. Type of boat
 How much manoeuvrability the boat has, how many rowers?
While the boat is stationary in normal conditions and the crew is preparing
to begin rowing, the appropriate alignment is best done before the words
“attention, row”, while the rowers are sitting alert and ready for the Boat orientation
coxswain’s next command. The rudder does not work with a stationary Where does the boat face relative to the required course?
boat; therefore, the rudder will not influence alignment.
The oars of the rowers must be used to adjust the direction Conditions
(refer to Booklet 2 - Steering the Boat). The cox can call this small What influence is wind, tide, traffic and wash playing in the boats
adjustment while keeping the crew ready to row – it must be done in
movement / orientation?
the shortest possible time.

Available space
What is the available space in which to manoeuvre i.e. how does
the venue’s geography dictate the alignment of a boat?

Time
Should the course adjustment be done more quickly or
less slowly?
 6 . 3 H O W T O A L I G N A B O A T B E F O R E R O W I N G c o n t ’ d . . .
P O S S I B L E S C E N A R I O S F O R
A L I G N I N G A B O A T
The following scenario is just one of a number designed to illustrate the
S C E N A R I O 1 - C O M M A N D S
degrees of complexity that may be possible for the coxswain when aligning
a boat. The reader should refer to Booklet 11 - Selected Command Charts
for a complete and detailed description of commands and their responses. COMMAND RESPONSE CAUTION

The scenarios here and the ones included in Booklet 11 use the variables
on the previous page. The novice or beginner coxswain should not feel
daunted by them. Each are applied, in this instance, to an eight oared “Bow... ready to pull it around ”
boat, as the eight will be the most difficult to manoeuvre. All other boats
will be able to follow the same commands but without the same degree The bow seat rower moves to the front of the slide, arms outstretched,
and oar square in the water.
of difficulty.
All crew members are alert to what is to follow, especially the bow seat
rower, who knows exactly what he is about to do.

“Pull it around, bow ”

30
o

The bow seat rower draws the oar through the water with the force of
his legs. He will continue to row until told to stop.
10
The bow seat will always be more influential on the boats direction. It is a
1
ario
key leverage point and will change the course more quickly. As the bow is

Scen rowing it is necessary for all other rowers to sit ready or resting on back
of slide; depends whether the adjustment is a lengthy procedure.
n: the
i e n tat i o w - s i de of “Full strokes” can be an alternative call to “pull it around.”
B o at
Or
o to th
e bo
nt.
3 0 gnme
“Easy, bow ”
a c i n g e a l i
F urs
ht co nce.
straig t i d e inf lue
ition
s: nd no
ind a The bow seat rower stops rowing.
Co n d is n o w
there ited.
Flat ; e : Unlim
S p ac This call is made by the coxswain prior to full alignment, allowing for a
able ions.
Ava i l strict
continued movement of the boat after the call.
e .
ite...
im e r
: No t ppos
Time l e o
tab
c o m mand If it was then necessary for the entire crew to begin rowing immediately,
r to
Re fe
without any time delay, the crew may have been asked to “sit-up” prior to the
bow seat rower making the alignment adjustment. The crew is then able to
respond instantly to the call, “row”. This facilitates speedy responses. If the
alignment is going to be drawn out or there is no urgency, then the coxswain
may allow the crew to sit relaxed, oars flat on the water and sitting at the
back of the slide, while commands are given.
6.3 H O W T O A L I G N A B O A T B E F O R E R O W I N G c o n t ’ d . . .

The following Scenarios are detailed with ‘Response’ and ‘Caution’

(as for Scenario 1 on the previous page) in Booklet 11 - Selected
Command Charts. The reader is advised to reference these for
explanation of the following commands. One of
my mos
was whe t emba
n I was rrassin
first to g m om e
boat up ld nts as a
with som that you cox
ething, should
15 It was to stee line the
r straig
o

an open h t
long wa la ke and .
y away. everyth
the dis E ve rything ing was
tance a I looke such a
d
2
nd too at
ario
I chose small. S w as off in
Scen
the bigg o thinkin
That wa est thin g it through
s OK, un g I cou
aight wanted til 10 min ld find
on : he str utes int o n t he horiz
Or i e n
t a t i
ide o f t to know o the r on.
B o at bow-s to stee where o w t h
o to the
r straig I was goin e coac
Fa c i n
g 1 5
nmen
t. twelve hter (r g and t h
e alig years o ememb old me
c o u r s
fluen
ce. ld at th e r, I was
ide in harder e time). only abo
ition
s :
d and
n o t on m y r S o I ut
Co n d o win minutes e fe rence f o cused
t h e r e is n later, s point. A even
Flat ; limite
d.
“Where he stop nd again 13
ac e : Un are you ped the , only fiv
able
S p
up with going? I b o at all to e
Ava i l lable. thought gether.
e avai someth I told y
t i m
you line ing.” I t ou to li
Limite
d
d yours old her ne
Time : t h
nd ” *
elf up w a t I had
-up”
my answ . “What
S it r o u er wou ith?” I h
ta
“ ad no d have
tap i
had abo ld wipe oubt th
away a
“B ow chosen
ut me.
In m y m n y doubt a t
ind it w s that s
asy ” lte r n
a t iv e someth a s he
“E d” ca
n ser
v e a s an a
someth
ing big,
in g in the dir
e
a ll s o logica
l. I
r oun ar oun
d”
someth ction w had
” To u c
h it a
“ t a p it see wit ing obvio e were
* hout ha h e
o
comm
an d t
ving to u s, some a d ing,
and tha lean to thing I
t was a e ither sid c o u ld
bove th e of th
Sitting t e head e boat
heir in lin e of the
wind on the brig crew.
the wat ht suns
er and hine wit
of my a with my h just a
“Touching it” is a command that allows small, quick adjustments to be
nswer, I coach f hint of
lake, “D pointed u lly
made with little energy and in an alert and ready position i.e. at the front of o you s toward expect
ee that the far ant
the slide. It is ideally used when in the starter’s hands at a regatta. When an My coac big cloud?” e n d of the
alignment distance is small and made at the last minute, it is ideal. h never
let me
forget
Hopefully, it will be the “touching it” command sequence that will be Nichola that an
s Jason swer.
the “bread and butter” of the beginner coxswain when straightening a , Coxsw
stationary boat. ain
 6.3 H O W T O A L I G N A B O A T B E F O R E R O W I N G c o n t ’ d . . .

For obvious reasons, it is never advisable to point the bow of the boat
at clouds, boats or cars for orientation! They have the unfailing ability
to move. Scenario 4
80o
Bo at Or ie n
ta t i o n :
Fa ci ng 8 0 o to
th e s tr o ke -s
of th e s tr ai gh id e
t co ur s e al ig
nm en t .
Co n d i t i o n
s:

rio 3
80
o

a
H ea v y ; th er
cen
e is s tr o ng si
S
de w in d an d
fo ll ow in g ti
de .
Av a il a b le Sp
n: ac e :
tat i o e of Li m it e d – na
Or ie n r o k e - s id r ro w ri ve r co
B o at o to th e
s t . ur s e
Fa c in g
80 nment
t c o u r s e a li g T im e : Li m it e
a ig h
the str d am o un t of
ti m e – di c t at
e d by co nd it
itions
: in d io ns
Co n d s id e w
is s li g h t
“Full slide...
the r e .
L ig h t ; lu e n c e
n o t id e in f
and
14 e : U n li
m it e d Stroke side
- pulling it arou
nd...
S p ac
able
A v a il s Bow-side back
t im e restr
ic t io n ing it down...
” Sit ready”
o
..
N
side. t around
T im e :
r ok e - ll i
“St pu
y to
read
ow ”
R ea dy, r
“
”
y all
“Eas
This manoeuvre is best done by a coxswain with some experience. If it is left
as the only option for a novice coxswain then it begs the question – why was
the coxswain permitted to be out on the water under such circumstances?
The coach, not the coxswain, should best answer this question.
The coxswain should not feel daunted by the amount of detail offered for these
scenarios in expanded form (in Booklet 11- Selected Command Charts).
As the degree of course correction in Scenario 3 is larger than It is not expected that all coxing knowledge will be at the new coxswain’s
Scenario 1 or 2, and the boat must move through a greater distance into beck and call. The coach will only give the cox greater responsibilities if he
a wind, than these two scenarios, it is necessary to use more rowers to is ready.
complete the task.
 6 . 4 C O M M A N D S 6.5 C hec k list before
A N D C O N F I D E N C E sa y ing ‘ go ’
The coxswain must be decisive. The commands should be given without
Below is a basic checklist for novice and experienced coxswains alike.
hesitation in a firm, confident voice, (refer to Booklet 3 - Using the Voice)
encouraging and reinforcing the trust each crew member should have in
their coxswain. In the most extreme of circumstances, the safety of the I know my course and destination.
crew and the boat can often depend upon valuable seconds. But even
within the everyday, commonplace giving of commands, there can be no
room for dithering hesitation - it can only erode crew confidence. I understand the traffic rules.
If a crew is forced to place a giant question mark over the head of their
coxswain, they begin to second guess the coxswain’s every command.
I have established navigational reference points to steer straight.
Instead of following the command they seek confirmation. Instead of
concentrating upon their rowing they are minding, not their own business
but that of their coxswain’s.
I have allowed for the influence of wind, tide and other craft in
Be warned - the cox that has crewmembers constantly setting my course.
looking out of the boat and swivel-necking toward the bow
has lost the confidence of that crew!
I know what the coach wants me and the crew to do.
16 This lack of confidence in the coxswain, when taken to its logical extreme,
is not just a matter of rowers looking out of the boat but rowers taking
matters into their own hands. My crew is quiet and listening to me.

The untrusting rower may manoeuvre the boat uninvited,

assuming the coxswain has not seen the course variation My crew is sitting up, ready to row.
or is unable to make the necessary adjustment. The bow
seat rower or stroke seat rower may become the de-facto
coxswain, issuing commands of their own that may run My crew’s blades are buried in the water.
counter to that of the coxswain. These circumstances not
only undermine the coxswain but place the crew at risk.
Make it very clear by word and action that there is only Each crewmember is looking straight ahead.
one voice that should be heard and listened to by a crew
– the coxswain’s. The most confident are those that are
best prepared and have a clear understanding of what ...and so the boat has been straightened, a distant point of navigation has
is expected.
been identified, each rower has their eyes in the boat, oars are buried in
the water and each rower looks attentively forward... “Attention... go!”
 6.5 C H E C K L I S T B E F O R E S AY I N G ‘ G O ’ c o n t ’ d . . .

It may feel like a weighty responsibility, and it probably is, but each of
the previous check-listed points is within the good coxswain’s control.
The cox may also wish to add some physical checks that relate only to
the coxswain (refer to Booklet 4 – Preparation for the Water):

Am I sitting straight in the boat?

Am I sitting comfortably?
“From litt
le things,
Do I have a relaxed grip of the rudder toggles?
know who big things
said it, b grow.” I d
ut on’t
true whe I can tell y
Is my back pressed lightly into the seat? n coxing. o u, it is so
and mino Things tha
r in train t s e em so little
become ing all of
Can I be easily heard? major dr t h e sudden
I never w amas whe
orried a n you race.
If neglected prior to commencement, each of these will need to be burying h bout thre
er blade e seat not
addressed soon after. This will result in unnecessary movement and the to sit up. when I a
18 That was sked the
boats balance and run will be upset. until she crew
in a race d id the same
and misse
Also, a coxswain that cannot be easily heard cannot perform the job sending u d the fir
effectively. Audibility levels must be ascertained before commencing. s into the st stroke
another next lane
It is as simple as asking the crew before starting, “Can you all hear me? ” crew. I d , colliding
idn’t wor with
rowers a r y t h at
The coxswain accommodates the crew by issuing the command lways too two
than the k longer
“Number off from bow when ready.” Crewmembers must then shout, in others un t o g e t ready
order of bow to stroke, their seating position when ready. When bow is go and w til the st
e were le a r t er said
ready he will call “Bow!” If two seat is not ready and three seat is, then
little pre ft at the
three must wait until he hears “Two!” being called out and only then may paration st art. Thos
things do e
three seat proceed with his call of “Three!”, and so on down the boat to but they n’t seem mu
can make ch
stroke seat. one big d
Melissa M if fe rence.
cPhail, Co
If the crew is a new one or seating is changed on a regular basis then xswain
this process can benefit crew and cox. It reminds each crew member
what seat they are in and assures the coxswain that there can be no
confusion as to who the coxswain is addressing when nominating a seat
to row or make adjustments.
 6.6 W A R M U P
R O U T I N E C O M M A N D S
C O M M A N D S T O G I V E
Traditionally, once crewmembers are ready and the boat is straight, rowing F O R C R E W W A R M U P
sessions commence slowly with a set of warm up routines and drills.
The good coxswain will know his coach’s wishes; if the session is to begin “ARMS ONLY, bow pair... stern pair balancing...”
with warm up requirements then a clearly enunciated routine or written
program may be provided by the coach.
“Sit ready bow pair... arms only... attention... go”
If not, then the coxswain may ask the coach whether the following (15 strokes)
rudimentary sequence can be applied. It is a routine that it is common
to many rowing programs and the coxswain will not be far wrong in “On three, with ARMS AND BODY... one... two... three”
assuming its acceptability to the coach, unless alternatives or additions
have already been outlined.
“Arms and body” (15 strokes)
Once again this command sequence is detailed in Booklet 11 -
Selected Command Charts if the reader requires further explanation
of each command. “On three, QUARTER SLIDE... one... two... three”

There will be a pre-determined number of strokes to be done for

each exercise (note bracketed strokes in the chart to the right). The good “Quarter slide” “On three, HALF-SLIDE... one... two... three”
coxswain should silently count strokes and give the next command once
20
the required number of strokes is completed.
“Half-slide” (15 strokes)
The good coxswain will seek to refine the warm-up sequence in consultation
with the coach. There are specific drills that the coach may wish to see
incorporated into this routine or in place of it. “On three, THREE-QUARTER slide... one... two... three”

Coxswain, crew and coach should consult each other closely to help in
the warm-up’s evolution. “Three-quarter slide” (10 strokes)

Coxswain and crew should be mindful of the need to do all that is required
quickly and efficiently. If only a select number of crewmembers are active “On three, FULL slide... one... two... three... Square Blade”
at any one time then it is detrimental to the idea of “warm-up” if they have
to wait too long “cooling their heels”, while others are rowing.
“Full-slide. (10 strokes)
Also; the good coxswain will keep a very close eye on the watch to see
how long each half of the crew has for warm-up but also how long the set
“FEATHERING, on the next stroke...”
routine of drills takes to complete. The crew that is rowing to the start of
a race will take great comfort from a coxswain that knows exactly how
long before their race they must launch in order to complete the mandatory “Feather, now” (10 strokes)
warm-ups. If the coxswain is able to strictly regulate the warm-up routine
under varying circumstances the crew will feel both prepared and confident.
“Changing pairs, in three... bow pair out...
(Refer to Booklet 8 – Race Day)
stern pair arms only, in... one... two... three”
6.7 BASIC COXSWAIN COMMANDS G iving the command to
W H i L e T R A I N I N G stop rowing
It would be a reckless individual that begins any activity that involves
Now that the coxswain knows how to start the boat, straighten the
movement and speed without knowing how to stop. Much like the driver that
boat and go through a basic warm-up the real business of training on a
does not know where to find the brake-peddle on a motor vehicle – there are
waterway begins. Inevitably, there are hundreds of commands a coxswain
safer ways of stopping than running into other objects! The coxswain as
may give during a training session. The good coxswain may never have
“driver” must know where to find the brakes.
an exhaustive list or set script by which to cox, but there will always be
common expectations of all coxswains when operating on the waterway The command “Easy, all!” is the rowing equivalent of “Stop!” The word stop
during the course of a training session. does not exist in the language of rowing. The command “easy, all” is given
as the oar enters the water and is completed as the oar exits the water i.e.
W hen and how “E-e-e-eeeeasy - as oar moves through water, “all” - as it exits.
commands should be given
The crewmembers at this point can rest the feathered blade on the water,
waiting for the boat to come to a complete stop.
When a crew is rowing, the most ideal time for a coxswain to
issue a command is just when the oars enter the water However, many coaches and crews (perhaps not beginners or novice) expect a
(the catch). Having been committed to a stroke the rower can only more polished completion to the rowing stroke. This is possible when the rower
continue through that stroke before responding. This allows time exits the water and doesn’t allow the blade to rest immediately atop the water.
for the crew to think about the command and to make ready the Instead, all crewmembers allow their hands, with the oar handle, to move away
necessary adjustment before acting on the coxswain’s instruction. from the body while holding the oar’s blade above the water’s surface. They
hold this position until the coxswain gives the command “Rest.” At which 23
The good coxswain will not only issue the command as to what point all blades are lowered to rest upon the surface of the water.
is to be done, but will make clear who is to do it and when they
This “run” of the boat, immediately after the “easy all” command does not
are to do it - in that order. For example, “More weight (what),
happen automatically. The coxswain may need to issue the command
bow-side (who), in three strokes (when)... one... two... three...
“Let it run” immediately after “Easy, all” to be assured of a polished
more weight.” The command and count will, of course be given
stroke completion.
on the catch.
Slapping the blades on the water upon the command “rest” will add a
further dimension. One command, one slap, one crew!

This is an ideal situation for a good coxswain to stamp not only his
authority on the crew but to create a professional, self-motivated, working
environment. The crew will appreciate a coxswain that exacts the very best
from them and provides them with opportunities to prove their skills and
allow them to gain a higher degree of enjoyment from their rowing.

Of course the coxswain that calls “Let it run” after the command to easy
oar has both the room and the time to allow the boat to keep moving.
Circumstances might however, dictate that the boat needs to stop more
quickly. It is then that the command “Check, it” comes into play.
 6 . 7 basic coxswain commands c o n t ’ d . . .

G iving the command to stop G iving the command to T U R N

the boat the boat
Strictly speaking, “Check, it” is really the rowing equivalent of the Most coxswains (unless navigating a circular course) will be required
brake peddle, where as “easy all” is, more or less, like engaging a to “spin the boat” during a training session. Moving a boat through
neutral gear and rolling to a stop. Emergencies and restricted areas of 180 o requires consideration of time, space and regulation by every good
movement require the “check, it” command. Collisions are best avoided coxswain. The boat cannot be spun with the rudder and therefore must
with this command as the oar is squared, the oar handle lifted and the be done with the full cooperation of the crew.
oars are held firm in the water. The boat then comes to a halt due to the
resistance of the blades in the water. How much blade resistance there Via the coach the coxswain should know the point at which a boat will be ‘spun’.
is will dictate how quickly the boat will stop. The coxswain should be very clear on this before setting out.
The coxswain must quickly assess the urgency of any situation. If the Traffic on the waterway is often regulated or restricted. It is necessary
boat is required to stop but time and distance allows this to happen to take full consideration of any regulation or guideline. The coxswain
slowly then the command may be “Easy all, check it lightly, all crew”. that turns a boat must know where turning is not only desirable but
The rowers will partially square their blades and allow them to run atop acceptable. Commonly, all boats must share a common turning point to
the water with partial drag. avoid the random nature of boat turning and the danger this entails – ask
When the need for stopping is sudden, unexpected and urgent the the question “Where am I allowed to turn the boat?” before heading out.
coxswain will reflect such urgency in his voice and call “Easy all, check
it hard!” (It must be loud enough for any other crew to hear as well.) 25
The crews response must be immediate and dynamic – blades fully
squared, handle lifted quickly and held against the body, blades are fully Check it
and deeply buried. The boat will come to a stop immediately.
lightly
The good coxswain’s voice will have both volume and intensity Check it
proportionate to the urgency of the situation. A mono-tonal drawl of
now
“Check it hard” calmly and slowly said to the crew will not achieve the
desired effect. Alternatively, a hysterical yell of “Check it, lightly” said
with stressful urgency will exact a disproportionate response from the
crew. The voice should reflect the circumstances.
Check it
The “check it” command can also be used when turning a boat eg. HARD!
“easy all, check it stroke-side”. As the boat continues to move, any
command from the coxswain that asks for only one side of the boat to
“check it” will gain a sudden and immediate course alteration to that side.
This is most commonly utilised when to stop and turn may take too much
time and result in water traffic being blocked, valuable time being lost.
Or, logically it will be used when any further forward movement will result
in the boat’s bow making contact with an object (refer to Booklet 2 -
Steering the Boat – Using the Oar ).
 6 . 7 basic coxswain commands c o n t ’ d . . .
w H E R E T O T U R N the boat
If the information is not available then a common-sense appraisal will be But in summation; the method to be used to turn is dictated by the amount
necessary and the coxswain should check the following before deciding of time and space available. A coxswain with unlimited space and time will
that “here” is the place to turn: simply have one side of the boat pulling the boat around e.g. “pull it around
stroke-side”. This will produce a large turning circle. Alternatively, if there
Can I see up and down the waterway in both directions for at is limited space and time then the coxswain will have one side of the boat
pulling it around and the other side backing it down e.g. “pull it around
least 100 metres?
stroke-side, back it down bow-side”. In theory this should halve the amount
of space and time taken to turn.
Can I stop without blocking the water traffic behind me?
Can traffic go around me safely? Of course the quickest way to turn a boat is to have one side of the boat
‘check’ their oars while the boat is still moving and then invite the opposite
side to recommence their stroke e.g. “check it bow-side... pull it around
Will the boat be adversely affected by wind, tide or wash at this
stroke-side”.
point? Can I be swept toward the bank, rocks or structures?
The coxswain should make any command to turn clear and be sure to
Is the waterway wide enough to complete a quick turn? enforce an expectation of clean, well-timed bladework.
Oars not being used to affect a turn should be placed flat on the water and
the handle controlled to contribute balance to the boat as it spins. Further to
Bottlenecks, bridges, bends and blind corners would obviously be
this, rowers not rowing should remain attentive and silent.
inappropriate places to turn a boat. Also, a strong tide or wind will catch a
26 turning boat and move it at speed if it is caught side on to either of these.
Most waterways work within the stated law that all boats are to pass
portside to portside. In rowing this translates to passing stroke-side
to stroke-side. Therefore, it is important to stay as far to the right of a
set course for the longest possible time before the turn and during the
turn. Before turning, the coxswain will usually bring the boat to a stop.
It is often a time used by coaches to speak with the crew to review what
has happened on the outward leg and to advise what is to be done on the
return leg. The boat must therefore be either off the course or as far
to the right of the course as possible to avoid impeding the progress of
others travelling in the same direction.
When turning a boat from a stationary position the coxswain must begin
on the right hand side of the course (unless there are specific waterway
rules to the contrary) - looking in both directions to see if there is any
approaching traffic, then use the rowers to effect the quickest possible
turn from one side of the course to the other.
Earlier in this booklet and in Booklet 2 - Steering the Boat, the various
means at the coxswain’s disposal to affect a turn, have been outlined.
 6 . 7 basic coxswain commands c o n t ’ d . . .

H O W T O S T O P W H E R E A B O A T
A B O A T F R O M D R I F T I N G ? I S L E S S L I K E L Y T O D R I F T
At least once during every rowing session, the coach will stop the
crew and give coaching feedback. Ideally, the place chosen to do this A bank / shore can be a protective shelter against strong wind if it
will be sheltered from the elements, not impede traffic nor exact too is to the windward side of the boat. Choosing to stop in a cove, bay
or protected bend will help in difficult conditions.
much of an effort from the coxswain. Nevertheless, sometimes the
coxswain’s most difficult task is to keep a moving boat within earshot A boat facing the bow into the wind, tide or waves with checked
of a stationary coach. blades can maintain a position more easily and for much longer
than a boat that catches the wind along its full length. The more
Wind, tide and simple drift will make it hard for a coxswain to hold surface area the coxswain offers the wind or tide the faster the
a boats position while the coach speaks. It is often the same skills boat will move from course or position. Face into the wind if it is
used to do this that keep a coxswain from drifting over or away an option.
from the starting line at a regatta - skills that must be part of the
coxswain’s repertoire. A wind that blows across the bow of a boat will be best combated
by a coxswain if he is able to face that boat as close to the winds
If an anchor point is available then the coxswain may wish to use direction as possible when coming to a stop. If the wind blows
this to maintain the distance between crew and coach (or crew and from stroke-side to bow-side then the boat will eventually be
starting line) constant e.g. buoy, marker post or bank. The coach can pushed to the bow-side. The coxswain should compensate in
serve as the ‘anchor’ from bank or boat if he takes hold of an oar or advance by holding a position further to stroke-side. This of
29
the side of the rowing boat. Alternatively, the crew may take hold of course will only be a short term solution.
the coaching boat, if there is one. (It is also worthy of note that a tail wind will effect the stern in the same
way a head wind will affect the bow. In which case the good coxswain (at a
The coxswain should be mindful when choosing the ‘anchoring’ option
starting line in particular) will face directly down wind, and use the stern
that it should be achieved without sacrificing the comfort of the crew
end rowers to manoeuvre backwards as necessary).
or coach. The boat should be able to sit on an even keel and not be
buffeted against the anchor point e.g. pushed into rocks, pylon, bank These last points are an effective and often necessary course of action at
or structures by strong wind, waves or tied. the start of a race during high winds.

If the boat cannot be comfortably anchored and is subject to drift then

it must rely upon the constant maintenance of boat position by the
oars of the rowers. In the first instance, however, the coxswain may
assist this “holding pattern” by placing the boat where it is least likely
to be effected by drift/movement.
 6 . 7 basic coxswain commands c o n t ’ d . . .

C O M M A N D S T O A V O I D D R I F T
Ultimately, the coxswain’s commands to his crew will be the best means
for avoiding a boat being swept away beyond a set course, a starting line
or a coach.

“A boat drifting usually

T he M ost U seful C ommands
for A V O I D I N G D rifting A re :
corresponds with a coxswain
whose attentions have
“Check blades, all crew. ”
also drifted -
Checked blades, held firm will retard drift as it adds further resistance
to the boats movement. However, it is unlikely to stop drift entirely.
good coxswains
“Check blades, all crew. Keep touching it, bow. ” stay anchored to
While the boat’s run is retarded by the squared blades in the water, the here and now. ”
the small strokes of bow seat will maintain the position of the boat into
a slight stroke-side wind. If the coxswain has also faced the bow of the
boat slightly to the stroke-side of a straight course then the boat will
be further assisted.

“Check blades, all crew. Keep backing two. ”

This alternate “holding pattern” enables the same degree of course

compensation but avoids the boat moving forward from its position.
Any crewmember backing the oar through the water will draw the
boat to their side and toward the stern. The closer the blade is to the
side of the boat, when backing, the greater the sideway movement.
(Alternatively, stern end rowers may be used for backing rather than
using two-seat as suggested above – this may prove more effective
in an eight).
6.8 C ommunicating
with the coach S ignals from the C oach

The coach will often speak to the crew during the course of a rowing
session. The coxswain should be attentive to what the coach is telling Raised arm with open hand,
the crew – after all, it will be the coxswain’s role to remind the crew, STOP
palm out.
from within the boat, what it is that the coach is asking of the crew.
(Refer to Booklet 7 – Coxswain as Coach)
The good coxswain will ask the coach to repeat an instruction or
Raised arm with index finger
direction if it is not heard or fully understood. This will demonstrate s p in or turn
pointed upward and moving in
the coxswain’s initiative and obvious desire to help the crew. However, the boat
wide circles (lasso-like) above
repeated calls from the coxswain for clarification will demonstrate around
the coach’s head.
one of two things: poor hearing or inattentiveness; neither of which is
desirable for a coxswain. The good coxswain will make this process all
the easier by staying silent when the coach is speaking with the crew. Index finger pointing upward
lift the
Please note - Some coaches do not make themselves very clear. with the forearm moving up
rating
They speak through dysfunctional megaphones or speak far too quietly and down.
for the circumstances – this must be brought to their attention at the
earliest possible opportunity by the coxswain.
33
When on the water, it should also be noted that any conversation with Index finger pointing downward
rating to
the coach should be brief and very one-sided in favour of the coach. with the forearm moving
come down
It should only take place when the boat is stopped and never be a factor up and down.
that contributes to crew distraction while they are rowing. A crew should
not have to hear any conversation over the in-boat amplification system.

S I G N A L S F O R C O X A N D C O A C H
S ignals from the C O X
Sometimes it is necessary for the coxswain and coach to communicate
without the need for words. Hand signals are very useful under a variety
of circumstances, especially when distance prevents hearing or external Acknowledges the coaches
Quick wave
factors drown out the coach’s voice. signal or direction. He must
or exaggerated
know that you have seen
The good coxswain should look toward the coach regularly in order to head nod
and understood.
ascertain the coach’s wishes.
It is very important that a coach should not find out after a session that
his words could not be heard. If he sees and understands the ‘can’t hear’ Informs the coach that the
An exaggerated
coxswain is unable to hear the
signal then he may reply with a quick wave of acknowledgement. If he hand cupped
coach (it is likely that will be
does not acknowledge, then the coxswain should seek eye-contact (may behind the ear or
having the same difficulty and
gain his attention with raised arm in the air) before signalling. a raised head
the coach should be told).
 6 . 8 communicating with the coach c o n t ’ d . . .

H elping the coach

If the coach asks the coxswain to do something, by either signalling
or verbally, the coxswain must make it very clear that he has heard
by vigorous nodding of the head or a brief wave. No doubt the coach
will wait for this acknowledgement before continuing – the coxswain
should not keep him waiting. If the coxswain has heard and does not
acknowledge then it may be assumed that the coxswain is “asleep” or
“somewhere else” – two descriptions often used for bad coxswains.

The coxswain is often referred to as the “in boat coach” but this
should never be license for the coxswain to exceed his authority.
The coxswain’s instructions and calls may be entirely appropriate
but they must never be to the detriment of the coach’s effectiveness.
Most coaches do not take kindly to their words being drowned out by
an excessively “talkative” coxswain. The coxswain’s calls should be
brief and to the point. There will be brief periods of overlap but they
should be kept to a minimum.

Of course, at any time during a training session, the crew is

threatened by impending danger, the coxswain can interrupt the
34 coach and issue commands for evasive action.

A final valuable note for coxswain and coach communication:

If the coach is coaching two crews (or more) at the same time, the
coxswains of each boat should assist the coach by keeping crews
close together. The coxswain should ask crew members to up their
effort to catch up or to pause on the slide during a stroke to draw
back. Either way, it should be a coxswain’s initiative to facilitate the
coach’s efforts to see all crews and to be heard by all crews. It will
be most appreciated by the coach.
 6 . 9 STE E R I NG TH E BOAT O versteering
Much has already been said about steering in this booklet and in Booklet 2 The crew will benefit most from less rudder use because the rudder
- Steering the Boat, Booklet 5 Launching and Landing. For commands and creates resistance in the water necessitating a crew using more energy
rudder use these other booklets should be used for reference. to sustain the same speed. It will also force the boat to move off an even
However, there are a few vital words of advice that the good coxswain keel i.e. oars on one side of the boat being closer to the water, oars on the
should keep in mind during the course of a training session. other side being further off the water. This does not assist with rowing
technique. It is therefore recommended that the rudder be used in small
A nticipating a turn amounts, regularly while the oar is in the water - for stability. (A boat will
always lean away from a bend.)

Of course overcorrection is a symptom of using too much rudder, too late

and not appreciating the degree of responsiveness.

The bad coxswain will push the rudder hard and late into a turn and fully
forget that because the boat does not move immediately, it need not be
“punished” by even more aggression. Too late they realise that the boat
has responded and keeps on responding beyond the point of where they
intended the boat to be. The bad coxswain will then have to steer back to
the point where he intended to be.

36 If he applies the same method again then he will oversteer again and
Most coxswains use their rudder far too often. This is due to poor have the boat “snaking” down the course. Effectively, the coxswain
anticipation or overcorrection. These are best overcome by understanding continues to unsettle the balance of the boat, covers the greatest
that the boat will not respond immediately to the rudder and its response
possible distance, slows the boat down and attracts the least possible
will be proportionate to the speed and size of the boat. A smaller boat
appreciation from the coach and crew.
will be easier to manoeuvre than a larger boat and a fast moving boat will
change course more quickly than a slower moving boat.
Your body can help you to avoid oversteering:
Therefore, when approaching a bend or a necessary variance in course,
the coxswain will begin steering before the bend or obstacle. How far ahead
the rudder is used will depend on size and speed. The slower the boat is Relax your grip on the rudder strings.
moving the sooner it will be required. The bigger the boat, the sooner it will
be required.
So it is best to start steering into a bend prior to arriving at the bend. Use only your thumb and forefinger on the strings and
This should be done with small rudder adjustments regularly, not large the other three fingers over the edge (gunwales) of the boat.
rudder adjustments all at once. If it is left too late then the boat will, in
the case of a bend, end up on the other side of the course or be forced to
take the longest route. The coxswain should always be looking for the Breathe, relax and feel the boat. It is the same advice that
shortest route. It is too late to avoid a long route if the rudder is not used in can be given to rowers that are struggling – relax.
anticipation of a turn.
 6 . 9 steering the boat c o n t ’ d . . .

N A V I G AT I N G T U R N S & S T R A I G H T S U sing the oars to steer a course

Once again, the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. In the most desperate of circumstances, whether that is in racing or
Where the bow is pointed is where the boat is going to go. The good training, the coxswain can look beyond the rudder for steering. Having
coxswain will pick out a distant point in the direction he wishes to travel and exhausted the possibilities of the rudder, in making a sharp turn, the
use the rudder, sparingly, to aim then maintain this straight line course. coxswain can ask for his crewmembers to use their oars as a contributing
force in the turn. Of course this is while the boat is still moving.
If the boat varies from the point use the rudder, but remember
The coxswain wants to move the boat to stroke-side and already knows
it will take approximately three strokes before the boat will respond
that his rudder will not achieve this quickly enough to avoid unfavourable
to the rudder – the coxswain will be where he wants to be in three consequences. Therefore, he has a number of options depending how
strokes time. quickly this needs to be done.
A winding river course will have its own unique variables of which a
coxswain should be aware. A navigational point in the distance might be If there is still time and space he may ask some of the rowers on the
as close as the next bend; this is fine but do not leave it too late to make opposite side (bow-side) of the boat to apply more pressure to the
a course adjustment prior to the bend. It is too late to use the rudder oar - “full weight bow”.
once the point has been reached.
If the above response proves ineffective because there is too little
time or space then the coxswain may ask for all the members on the
other side of the boat to apply more pressure to the water -
“full weight bow-side”.
39
If all the efforts of one side of the boat will not avoid unfavourable
consequences then stroke-side can be asked to lessen their effort
to magnify the effect of the side pulling more weight -
“lighten off – stroke-side, full weight bow-side”.

Finally, if all else cannot guarantee the boats safe negotiation of the
sharp left hand turn then the rowers on the left hand side can stop
rowing all together - “easy oar stroke-side” or place the oars in the
The same can also be said coming out of the bend - ease off the rudder water and hold them there -“check it stroke-side” while the right
before being fully out of the bend knowing that the boat will continue to hand side of the boat keeps rowing - “pull it around bow-side”.
move around after the bend, after the rudder has stopped being used.
Once around a bend a new distant navigational point may be used. None of these should ever be used as a replacement for effective rudder use.
Note that it can be sometimes more beneficial to keep the boat As always, in emergency situations, the coxswain’s tone of voice should
equidistant from the bank or between two points on each side of the reflect the degree of urgency. Having one side of the boat ease off and the
boat for some consistency of course if a distant navigational point is not other to row harder, would suggest abnormal circumstances for steering
available. This will be especially telling when rowing in a regatta along but it can be done calmly and methodically if the crew is responsive.
a buoyed course. The coxswain should avoid hitting the buoys that run When a crew is slow to respond, or not aware of the urgency, then this
either side of the course by making adjustments to stay equidistant should be communicated to the crew with increased volume and a
between the two rows of buoys. serious tone, delivered quickly.
 6 .10 TR AFFI C GU I D E LI N E S
Each venue has its own rules and regulations for the management
of traffic and the good coxswain will have a very keen awareness
of these before getting onto the water (Booklet 4 – Preparation
for the Water).
Nevertheless, as the care and safety of the crew is the number
one priority of the coxswain, the following should be applied with
due diligence:

My best
Boats should not stop in areas that impede traffic coxing a
rider. I dvice ca
had for me from
s o a bike
knowing long had
Boats passing in opposite directions should pass stroke-side when to t r ouble
to stroke-side (keep to the right) bend. Tim start tu
e and tim rn in g into a
the far e again
bank or I kept hitt
Boats overtaking will have right of way and the boat being having to ing
to stop r g e t th
overtaken should move to the right and allow the overtaking owing an e crew
His advic d take d
boat to move to the middle of the course e was sim ra m a tic actio
wide and ple: appr n.
before y o a c h the be
40 ou get t nd
Coxed boats should give way to boats without cox with the o it line
part of up
dist a n c the bend
e fro m the grea
yo u. W h e test
Boats are to turn counter clockwise and give way to all entering n y o u
oncoming and following traffic
the bend a re
course t keep ad
o line up ju st ing your
point. Lo with that
ok as fa m ost dista
Power boats give way to rowing boats who give way to r ahead nt
and aim a s you can
sailing boats for it. I see
before I practice
used my d it o n my bike
it worke crew as
Boats should not move at great speed within the launching d. g u in ea-pigs a
nd
and landing areas
Mark Ke
nsington
, Coxswa
in
There are untold possibilities for the exercising of these general rules
of the water. However, they are not rules for the sake of rules they are
a demonstration of the respect and consideration given to other water
users. A thoughtful and courteous coxswain will have no difficulty in
applying them. Each rule should be applied with the coxswain’s maxim
in mind: I will do what is best for the safety and well-being of my crew.
 A practical scenario for appl y ing Op tio n 1: The cox swain sees
the eight ahead. He kno
water traffic guidelines wrong and that it should ws the eight is in the
not be stopped in this
was to stop behind the area. He also would be
m. Having the balance wrong if he
the offending eight in of the rules on his side
The following scenario is common to shared waterways and is illustrative a no stopping area. he overtakes
of a number of decisions that need to be taken by coxswains in the exercising Op tio n 2: The cox swain kno
of their duties. The coxswain in this scenario must not only demonstrate ws the eight is ahead of
moving boat has right him and that the faster
of way. For once, his bo
an adherence to the general rules of water but also a prioritising of their even if that boat is statio at is moving faster than
nar y. Exercising his right another,
application through a healthy dose of common sense. of way he overtakes the
eight.
Op tio n 3: The cox
swain spies the women’s
the river moving toward do uble scull on the other
him. Being out to his left side of
pass stroke-side to stro and knowing that boats
ke-side he feels confid should
current course. If the wo ent that he should maint
men’s double were to con ain his
and make contac t with tinue upon their curren
his boat, he would be in t path
the right.
Op tio n 4: The cox
swain has been told by
is approaching from beh his stroke seat rower tha
o
t a scull

e n a ri e w
ind. Knowing that the cox
continues for ward, mo less boat has right of wa
S c ving a little fur ther to the y he

a f fi c the centre of the course right, so the sculler can

r
pass to
T
.
H is c r
r
Wa te t e e r s h is b o a t u p e r s , w i t h v e r y l i t t w l y .
n a r i v e r. le
o Op tio n 5: The cox swain kno
ws that a sculler is app
that there is an eight up roaching from behind
wain s ovice
row ove sl
o ahead. He knows that if and
A cox s o f four n e l f . They m crew to row more quickl he is quick and gets his
eu p him s of e t h y he can be around the eig novice
is m a d u ch like a m e side ht before the sculler is upo
42 ence – m th e s led Op tio n 6: The cox
n them.
experi e w, o n ht pul
a d o f t h is c r y m e n ’s e i g ach.
swain knows that the eig
if he is to keep to the rig ht is going to impede his
e r heir c o
Up ah a s t ationa b y t ht. His coach has told him
not to stop unnecessaril
progress
there
is ssed i v e r, to use some initiative.
r i v e r, e i n g addre i d e o f the r approaching from beh
However, his stroke sea
t rower has told him tha
y and
b ite s st
e bank oppos ving ju ind. He knows that his t a sculler is
into th d , to the a c h es. Ha e progress. The cox swain
surmises that he can bo
crew should not impede
the sculler ’s
r ah e a
l app r o re cl s o th pass the eight and avo
Fu r th e o u b l e scul i d e , they a impeding the progress
of the sculler. He moves id
e n ’s d ow and as far to the left as possib
a wom t tle to ehind gives the scull ample roo le and
a b e nd a li h e r i v e r. B e n ’s
m to move bet ween his
boat and the eight.
round
ed
c e n t re of t
e f o u r is a m Op tio n 7: The cox
the vi c
ssing the no swain knows the eight
to cro r c l o ser to e.
from behind and that the is up ahead, the sculler
women’s double scull is is approaching
g ev e e pie c
drawin
verging toward the wro
i n g a rac ?
of the river. He knows tha
t the sculler is moving at ng side
scull d o xswain speed and that his crew
single n t o the co overtake the eight witho
ut impeding the sculler cannot
op e and gets his stroke-sid ’s progress. The coxswain
ptions e rowers to pull the bo stops
a t a r e the o at into the bank behind
the eight.
Wh Op tio n 8: The cox
swain knows the eight
approaching from beh is up ahead, the sculler
ind and that the wome is
side of the river. He kno n’s scull is verging tow
ws that the eight is sto ard the wrong
a sculler coming up qu pped in the wrong pla
ick ly behind and a wome ce but with
the wrong side of the rive n’s double venturing too
r he has no choice but close to
behind the eight and sto to bring his boat into the
p. He warns the sculler bank
yelling “Sculler!” loudly that he is stopped ahe
. The sculler acknowledg ad by
heads left toward the cen es the call by changing
tre of the river around course and
the novice four and the
eight.
 6 . 1 0 T R A F F I C G U I D E L I N E S c o n t ’ d . . .
T R A F F I C S C E N A R I O -
M A K I N G T H E R I G H T D E C I S I O N
Each of these options fails to successfully address all of the prevailing The coxswain would also less effort (weight) to forestall the
circumstances. It is apparent that the strict adherence to the rules alone appreciate that a last minute need to pass until the boat on the
is not enough; there must be a holistic consideration of the circumstances - “checking” of blades as his crew other side has progressed beyond
heavily influenced by common-sense and by close and careful observation. advances on the eight would not the point of most likely danger. An
only be disturbing to the crew
Option 8 (on the previous page) comes closest to the most appropriate occasional pause in rowing (slide
but also rely too heavily upon an
response for the coxswain. This coxswain is fully aware of his check) might also allow the crew
immediate response from a very
environment. He knows that as he sits in the stern of the boat, his view is to slow before passing and allow
inexperienced crew. They may not
partially obscured by the rowers that sit immediately in front of him. He them to continue without a jolting
be able to stop quickly. Advanced
knows that if trouble is directly ahead, he is unlikely to see it. But it could stop and a complete breakdown of
warning and anticipation will avoid
come from any quarter.
any need for dramatic action. rhythm in the crew.
Therefore, he not only looks but he listens for what is going on around As a good citizen
Of course, the
him. He does not shift his weight in the boat to peer from side to side of the waterway all
coxswain has also
because he knows that this would unsettle the balance of the boat. He coxswains (as well
acknowledged that
does, however, look far enough ahead to be aware of those that may be in
if he is to stop, it is Coxswains as rowers) should
his path. He knows that it will be too late to react and too difficult to see not only avoid
best done after he
if he is only occasionally attentive. The closer he gets to the unseen boat
has steered the boat
are not blessed causing difficulty
ahead the more difficult it is going to be to see it. Nevertheless, an ear for others but
44 peeled for a fellow coxswain’s voice, another crew’s coach or the sound
close to the bank
and made
with eyes in the should speak out if
of another boat’s oars makes for added care and caution. Hopefully, his danger threatens
fellow coxswain, in the boat ahead, will be just as attentive and warn him
way for any crew back of their others. Although the
that approaches coxswain’s crew,
of the danger ahead.
from behind. head in this instance,
All good coxswains will have an understanding with their crewmembers may not be directly
When overtaking,
that, if danger advances from behind, they will give warning to their involved and play
the good coxswain no part in creating
coxswain of its approach. Just like rowers, coxswains are not blessed
will stay to the right of centre as difficult circumstances, it would be
with eyes in the back of their head. A coxswain is well served by a stroke
much as possible. If the course is entirely inappropriate (as in Option 8)
seat rower that is attentive to all craft approaching from the stern and
narrow then it is to be done with for the aware coxswain not to warn
who then gives appropriate warning to his cox (same for a bow seat rower
the greatest of care and with the the sculler of the approaching
in a bow steered boat).
boat remaining as far to bow-side double scull. It is not enough to
In the Option 8 response to the Scenario, the coxswain was obviously (right) as space allows. If there help the sculler avoid crashing
warned of the approaching sculler by his stroke seat rower and was then is traffic coming in the opposite into the coxswain’s own four but it
able to raise the voice of alarm to forewarn the sculler. direction and overtaking will lead is appropriate that the coxswain
the coxswain to the opposite side yell, “Look ahead, sculler. Double
He also recognises that despite the rule of no stopping, circumstances approaching.” Or the coxswain may
of the course, then it is not to
will sometimes dictate that stopping is the best option. also warn the double, “Double,
be attempted.
watch your course – sculler
Additionally, the coxswain should also know his crew’s limitations.
It may simply be a matter of ahead.” This would avoid a collision
A novice crew will not be able to make an immediate variance in speed to and foster goodwill among other
allowing the crew to continue
allow their boat to overtake and outrun the faster moving boat behind. rowing but ask them to row with rowers and their clubs.
 6 .11 H ow to handle

the good
M otorboat wash
Large waves (wash/wake) that are formed behind motor driven water
craft can sometimes be higher than the gunwales of the rowing boat.
The displaced water can be so great that it threatens to swamp or
sink the boat. The coxswain must make a quick assessment as the
motorised craft passes as to whether swamping is a real possibility.
The speed and size of the craft will be determining factors as to the Test yourself
size of the wash the coxswain can expect. It will be observable for
Match the responses in the right hand column with the
some distance. If the wake is small then the cox should warn the correct commands in the left hand column.
crew of its approach “Wash on bow-side.” The crew will then know
that they can expect some disturbance to their rowing. If the wash is
large enough to swamp the boat then the coxswain will turn the boat COMMAND RESPONSE
side on to the wash and command the crew to stop rowing and brace
themselves with oars flat on the water for stability as the boat rolls 1 “Easy, all” A Crew sits ready to row
safely over the wave.
All rowers with oars to their left push the oar
A bow first assault on the large wave will 2 “Check it hard!” B faster through the water
increase swamping chances and place an
The rowers stop rowing and keep their oars from
extraordinary amount of stress on the hull 3 “Are you ready, row” C touching the water
46 if it is lifted at either end between two waves.
The rower three seats from the bow of the
The middle of the boat will be left “Pull it around,
4 bowside”
D boat places the oar in the water after other
unsupported and the downward weight crewmembers
on the hull could snap it in two. This is
“Pull it around,
especially true for eights. 5 E Rowers begin rowing
strokeside”
“Pull it around, The rower second from the bow seat of the boat
6 two seat”
F takes full strokes
“Pull it around,
7 seven seat”
G Rowers stop rowing

The rower second from the bow seat of the boat

8 “Tap it around, two” H takes a partial stroke

9 “Sit up” I All rowers with oars to their left take full strokes

“More weight
10 bow side”
J Boat is stopped with buried oars

The rower second from the stroke seat of the boat

11 “Let it run” K takes full strokes

12 “Late, three” L All rowers with oars to their right take full strokes
 quick

align To manoeuvre the boat to a straight course. numbering off

The process by which each crew member calls out their
arms only An exercise for rowers where they do not use their bodies seat position to advise the coxswain that they are ready to
or legs to contribute to the movement of the oar through begin rowing.
the water – arms only.
‘ pull it around ’
backing Moving the blade through the water in a backwards motion A command given by the coxswain to the rowers to make
(pushing the handle away from the rower) thus reversing large adjustments to the alignment of the boat by moving
the direction of the boat. through a complete stroke in the water (legs, body and
arms contributing).
back splash The placement of the blade in the water as it is moving
forward thus creating a splash behind the blade run Often a tem used to describe the smooth continued
(splashing toward the bow). momentum of the boat through the water after the
completion of a stroke.
catch That part of the rowing stroke where the oar is placed into
the water before pushing it through the water. square blade The positioning of the oar’s blade so that it is perpendicular
to the water (unfeathered).
‘check it’ A command given by the coxswain to the rowers to bring
the boat to a stop by burying their blades in the water as a ‘ touch it ’ ‘ tap it ’
resistance against the boat’s movement. A command given by the coxswain to the rowers to make
small adjustments to the boat’s alignment by moving the
drag The force exerted upon a boat when resistance is placed in blade through the water with the
the water that slows the boats speed. use of short arms only strokes
(no legs or body).
‘easy all’ The command given by the coxswain to stop the rowers
from continuing to row – the rowing equivalent of stop.

even keel A term used to describe a well-balanced boat as a result

of good rowing – a boat that is not falling side to side
when rowed.

feathered blade
The positioning of the oar’s blade so that it is parallel to
the surface of the water (feathered).

keel The centre ‘spine’ that runs the length of a boat from
which all other structural framework of the boat is built.
 the good

the good coxswain k nows :

The commands to start a crew rowing.

How to align a boat before a crew starts rowing.

First Published in 2006

The varying commands for aligning a boat. Rowing Victoria Incorporated
Suite 13, 20 Commercial Rd,
Melbourne VIC 3004
Telephone: 03 9820 8888
What needs to be checked before saying ‘go’. www.rowingvictoria.asn.au

© 2005 Andrew O’Brien

RowEd Australia
How to apply a warm-up routine. E-mail: info@rowed.com.au
www.rowed.com.au

Cartoon Graphics
When a command should be given. Will Goodwin
www.willgoodwin.com.au

Design / Production
How to stop the boat. Gillian Deeble
www.gjddesigns.com.au

The Good Coxswain title and the series of booklets are copyright. Apart from any use permitted under the Copyright Act
How, when and where to turn the boat. 1968 and any subsequent amendments, no part may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted by any means
or process whatsoever without prior written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the Author – Andrew O’Brien,
RowEd Australia.

Disclaimer
The author and publisher believe all material produced for The Good Coxswain is correctly and accurately researched.
However, we give no warranty in relation thereto and disclaim liability for all claims against the publication, its employees
or any person associated which may arise from any material contained within its pages which may be challenged by any
persons. Views expressed by the Good Coxswain are not necessarily those of Rowing Australia or associated State Rowing
bodies or associations.

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I n A SS o C I A TION WIT H :