Rowing - Complete Manual, With Illustrations and Valuable Advice; Laws of Boat Racing #221504

An oarsman about to row, having taken his oar in hand, should proceed to embark. This he should do by laying the blade of his oar in the water, if on the outside, or on the float if on the shore-side oar, and then stepping into the boat with his face to the stern, putting one foot on the keelson, lengthwise not athwart it, for fear of forcing his toe or heel through the boat — and stooping, should let himself down gently on the seat by placing aband on each gunwale. He should next ship his oar, placing the handle in the rowlock outside. He should sit square and exactly opposite the handle of his oar, not askew. The body should be erect, with the shoulders slightly thrown back and the elbows close to the flanks.