part of the stroke. Rating The number of strokes executed per minute by a crew. (also Stroke rate) Ratio The relationship between the time taken during the propulsive and recovery phases of a rowing or sculling action. Recovery The non-work phase of the stroke where the rower returns the oar from the release to the catch. Release At the end of the drive portion of the stroke. It is when the oar blade(s) is removed (or released) from the water. Run Distance a shell travels during each stroke. Rushing When rowers move too quickly along their tracks into the catch. The boat will lose the feeling that it is gliding or "running out." Set The balance of the boat. Affected by handle heights, rowers leaning, and timing, all of which affect the boat's balance, after which the coxswain tells rowers to "set the boat". (see keel). Shooting your slide When an oarsman's seat moves toward the bow faster than their shoulders. Skying A blade that is too high off the surface of the water during the recovery. The rower's hands are too low causing an upset to the balance of the boat (the "set"). Spacing / Run Distance between bowman's puddle on one stroke and the point at which the No. 7 rower catches water on the next stroke. Split time (split) Amount of time it takes to row 500 meters. Displayed on all ergs and on coxboxes installed on boats with speed coaches (see above). Square To turn the oar so that its blade is perpendicular to the water (opposite of feather). Stroke One complete cycle through the process above. The rower in the stern of a multi-person shell, whose timing is followed by the other rowers. Stroke rate The number of strokes executed per minute by a crew. (also rating) Swing A feeling in the boat when the rowers are driving and finishing their strokes strongly and getting good layback. Three-quarter/Half/Quarter slide Shortened strokes, often used during the start of a race or in a warm-up. Walking When passing a boat, the coxswain announces each seat as it is passed. Washing out When an oar blade comes out of the water during drive and creates surface wash that causes the shell to lose power and become unsteady. Race Start In head-to-head races, the start is one of the most important parts of the race. In head races, where