Quick Introduction to Pushing and Pulling on Oars

Pulling Away From The Line to Danger

When learning to row there are 4 reasons it's good to focus on pulling away from (the line to) dangers:

1. You're stronger pulling on the oars than pushing on the oars
2. You're pointed at obstacles you're trying to avoid and if you don't make the move then you'll hit them with your bow instead of the side of your boat
3. You maintain use of both of your oars when trying to avoid an obstacle or danger
4. You'll have more time when moving slower than the current

"Dangers" can vary from simple obstacles to complex and dangerous hazards.

Examples of Pulling Away From Obstacles

These "obstacles" are not necessarily dangerous hazards but things like rocks that we want to avoid.

Examples of Pulling Away from Hazards

When we use the term "pull away from dangers," the term "danger" could vary from a simple obstacle like a rock to more dangerous hazards like stainers and sieves.

Example: Blossom Bar Rapid on the Rogue River

Blossom Bar is an iconic rapid on Oregon's Rogue River that requires solid pulling technique.