This newsletter will include explanations regarding the mechanics of the boat, rower and system accelerations, along with answers to common questions on the matter. Firstly, a few general points. The rower is the only source of active force and power in the system moving it forward, and can apply force/power at two points only: at the handle Fh and stretcher Fs (Fig.1). During the drive, a negative (directed backwards, opposite movement direction) stretcher action force Fs is transferred through the boat-rigger to pin force Fp and, together with positive handle force Fh create a torque, which results in a negative blade action force Fb pushing the water backwards. According to Newton`s 3rd law, every action force creates an equal, but oppositely directed reaction force, so negative blade action force Fb creates a positive reaction force - blade propulsive force Fbr - which is the only external force moving the system forward.
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