The Path of the Blade through the Water

The path of the blade through the water is not what one might initially think. The following video shows how the pivoting of the oar and the forward motion of the boat combine to create the path of the blade through the water.

Path of Oar Blade Through Water

The Phases of the Stroke

The stroke can be divided into 4 phases based on the motion of the blade.

Phase 1: Forward Blade Motion

The blade moves significantly forward, toward the finish line.

Phase 2: Outward Blade Motion

The blade moves outward, away from the boat.

Phase 3: Backward Blade Motion

The blade moves backward, toward the starting line.

Phase 4: Inward Blade Motion

The blade moves inward, toward the boat.

Phases of the Blade Path