Rowing is not about the individual, it is about the entire crew: working, sweating, strategizing, executing, thinking, and always improving as ONE unit.

What is rowing all about? Is it an intense competitive sport? an act of pure physical endurance? a contemplative practice? a ticket into top-ranked colleges? a way to commune with the great outdoors?

Rowing is all these things, but like many things in life, it is more than the sum of its parts. Which may be why it elicits such passion and commitment from crew members.There’s something in rowing for everyone — and for every part of the individual you are. So, go ahead: start rowing for the friendships or the physique. Chances are you’ll stick with it for the pure joy.

PS: We’re in the process of making our own Oakland Strokes video, but until that’s ready, enjoy the many faces of rowing that have been shared on YouTube.