I row on the coast either, double scull or coxed 4 but, as a rower, I want to learn how to cox.  How do I get started?

Thanks for your question. Learning how to cox as a rower is a great ambition. But as an existing rower, you will find yourself at some of an advantage compared to non-rowing coxswains.

The first step is to talk to your coach and ask if they will get you opportunities to cox.  Once you ask, arrange with the coach which outings you can start learning.  

The second step is to educate yourself – there are some great resources that will help you learn to cox.

The Down and Dirty Guide to Coxing is a good book – written by an American – but you will know the coxing calls in British English so you can work out the differences.

Secondly, you and your coach may want to read “Coaching the Coxswain” as this is a guide for the coach who has never coxed – you will know how your coach works, and so reading it together will help you work out how best to guide your own learning as you switch over.

Do let us know how you get on.