How to Understand Rowing

Do you know the difference between a sculler and a sweeper? Well, it's time you stroked your way into the sport of rowing. Whether you're looking to row for exercise and fun, compete or just be a spectator, the sport is accessible to just about anyone with a desire to learn.

Instructions

1. Row, row, row your boat. If you have a boat and row it often, you will gain an understanding of the sport and its mechanics, techniques, history and terminology. Doing it is the best way to understand it.

2. Attend rowing events. Visit Web sites like U.S. Rowing (usrowing.org) and Row2k.com to learn about upcoming event schedules.

3. Watch the 2000 Summer Olympics on television and catch NBC's coverage of the rowing events. The commentators will do their best to explain the happenings to you.

4. Dig around online at the NBC Olympics Web site. Go to NBC.com and search for "olympics." Use the drop-down menu on the home page and select "Rowing," then click on the "About This Sport" hyperlink and read up on general facts, boat classes, the stroke, rules, equipment, history and much more.

5. Visit a local sporting goods store that sells rowing equipment and ask about local rowing clubs, publications and rental outfits.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a friend who will explore the world of rowing with you. It's always more fun to learn about something with a partner to keep you motivated and enthused.