Forward Facing Rowing System

Look where you’re going, not where you’ve been!

Pull on the oars just like you would regular straight oars, and the Forward Facing Rowing System transfers the energy in the opposite direction.

• Simple, reliable design with minimal moving parts
• Can be used on almost any classic style dinghy or rowing craft
• Manufactured in durable, high-quality stainless steel

WHY DO PEOPLE FACE BACKWARDS WHILE ROWING?

People typically row facing backwards because our body anatomy makes it easier to pull the oars through the water rather than push them. When you row facing backwards, you can use the strong muscles in your lower body, back, and shoulders. But the tradeoff is that you can't see where you're going, and continually have to look to either side to keep yourself on course. This means you might end up rowing more strokes than you really need to, tiring yourself or straining your neck in the process.

The Forward Facing Rowing System makes it possible to face forward while rowing, using the same efficient ergonomic advantage that you get when you row facing backward in the traditional method.

WHY ROW FACING FORWARDS?

Having your eyes on your destination makes it easier to row in a straight line, saving you physical effort and time. While rowing facing backward is a skill that you can learn and become comfortable with in time, sometimes it just helps to see where you're going, for example...

• You can easily avoid other boaters in a crowded harbor.
• You can see wildlife and watch them as you approach, giving you more time to watch them instead of only seeing them fade in the distance after you've passed them. 
• You can keep your eyes on your destination to better hold your bearing with less wasted effort in zig-zagging corrections.

ROWING IS FOR EVERY BODY.

Rowing is one of the most beneficial forms of exercise, with its steady, low-impact benefits on cardiovascular health. Yet outdoor rowing is an inaccessible form of exercise for many older people who suffer from limited mobility, neck pain, or arthritis, and are unable to crane their neck to frequently look behind them. Also, people who suffer from anxiety may find that they feel "blind" when rowing facing backward, and don't want to risk a panic-inducing situation on the water. Both these groups of people may feel "gassed out" after only a short period of rowing.

The Forward Facing Rowing System can make rowing more accessible. It can provide more confidence and comfort so you can row for longer distances, getting more exercise and having more fun while you're doing it. We've seen firsthand how forward rowing can help make outdoor rowing a regular, beloved part of an active lifestyle for people of all ages! 

SHIPS FREE WITHIN THE UNITED STATES

International shipping is available, see shipping options quoted at checkout.

NOTE: This item is for the mechanism only, pre-cut oars for the system are sold separately.

This system suits any standard size oar with a 1.75" shaft diameter. You can also purchase optional pre-cut oars from us here.