What is the difference between rowing and sculling?
Sculling is essentially a form of rowing. Within rowing there are two types, sweep rowing and sculling. Sweep rowing is when the rowers are rowing with a large group (up to 8 people) and each rower only has one oar. Sculling is typically when a rower is in a boat by themselves with two oars. Although there are sculling boats for 1, 2, and 4 rowers. The Learn to Row 1 class focuses on sweep rowing and the Learn to Scull class is the intro class for sculling. Our program requires that all new rowers begin with Learn to Row 1 before moving on.
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 aro
