Equipment Adjustment Reference

Proper Equipment Setup

Proper equipment adjustments are crucial for rower comfort, safety, and technical development. This guide will help you make appropriate adjustments for participants of varying sizes and abilities.

  • Safety first - All adjustments must prioritize rower safety
  • Comfort enables learning - Uncomfortable rowers cannot focus on technique
  • Progressive adaptation - Begin with more stable settings, then adjust as skills develop
  • Individual needs - Consider body proportions, not just height
  • Check before each row - Verify key adjustments before each session

Height Settings

The height of the foot stretcher affects the rower's body angle at the catch and the ability to clear the water during recovery.

Setting When to Use Indicators of Correct Setup
Higher
  • Taller rowers
  • Those with longer torsos relative to legs
  • Rowers who "sky" their blades
  • Blades clear water comfortably
  • Body angle at catch is appropriate
  • No excess pressure on lower back
Lower
  • Shorter rowers
  • Those with longer legs relative to torso
  • Rowers who "bury" their handles
  • Can achieve proper catch angle
  • Hands don't hit body at finish
  • Comfortable body position throughout

Fore/Aft Position

The fore/aft position of the stretcher affects compression at the catch and the overall stroke length.

Setting When to Use Indicators of Correct Setup
Forward
  • Less flexible rowers
  • Beginners needing stability
  • Those with longer legs
  • Comfortable compression at catch
  • Shins remain near vertical at catch
  • Handles clear body at finish
Back
  • More flexible rowers
  • Those seeking longer stroke
  • Those with shorter legs
  • Full compression without cramping
  • Good layback without overreaching
  • Clean finish position

Inboard Setting

Inboard is the distance from the collar to the handle end. Adjusting inboard affects leverage and handling.

Setting When to Use Indicators of Correct Setup
Shorter Inboard
(move collar out)
  • Smaller rowers
  • Those with narrower shoulders
  • When seeking easier handling
  • Comfortable hand position
  • No overreaching at finish
  • Natural arm position throughout
Longer Inboard
(move collar in)
  • Larger rowers
  • Those with broader shoulders
  • When seeking more leverage
  • Hands at comfortable width
  • Full reach without strain
  • No binding at body

Blade Pitch

Blade pitch affects how the blade enters and exits the water. Standard is 4-5 degrees.

Setting When to Use Effects
Standard
(4-5°)		 Most rowers in normal conditions
  • Balanced entry and exit
  • Good water connection
  • Appropriate slip through water
More Pitch
(6-7°)
  • Choppy water conditions
  • Rowers who wash out
  • Helped "locked on" feel
  • May be harder to extract
Less Pitch
(2-3°)
  • Very strong rowers
  • Those who bury blades too deep
  • Easier extraction
  • May slip more during drive

Session 1

  • Use standard novice settings (optimized for stability)
  • Focus on basic comfort rather than performance
  • Ensure proper safety range of motion

Session 2

  • Make minor stretcher adjustments based on first session observations
  • Keep standard oar settings
  • Address any major discomfort issues

Session 3-4

  • Refine all adjustments based on individual progress
  • Consider performance-oriented changes for advanced participants
  • Document settings for each rower

General Guidelines for Learn to Scull Boats

For most program boats, maintain these settings unless specific adjustments are needed:

  • Foot stretcher: Middle height, slightly forward position
  • Oar inboard: Standard (87-88 cm for sculls)
  • Blade pitch: Standard (4-5 degrees)
  • Span: Standard (158-160 cm for sculls)

Related Resources

AARC Coach Resources - For internal use only