With Olympic and World Cup medals already under their belts, Annie & Helen definitely know their stuff when it comes to rowing. Rather than just take our word for it, Annie and Helen themselves will be able to give you a fantastic insight into the sport of rowing so you'll know exactly what's what when you're cheering on the British team in 2012! We'll also get regular updates from them on their training and preparations in the run up to the Olympics Games.

  • Stroke

    The stroke is the rower at the back of the boat (or stern). All the other rowers should follow the rate and rhythm of the stroke.
  • Seat

    In the boats Annie & Helen row, this seat slides forwards and back on wheels to allow the rower to move easily and gain momentum.
  • Shoes

    Rowers attach their feet to the boat via shoes which are fixed to the boat. This helps them have a stable base when they are pushing off.
  • Oar 'Blade'

    Blades (aka oars) are used to propel the boat forward. There are all sorts of different shaped blades and all have different names.
  • Riggers

    These are attached to the edge of the boat and hold a pivot out to the side of the boat with which the blade connects to.
  • Coxswain

    The cox who sits at the front or back of the boat and is responsible for steering the boat and directing the crew.