When you see a crew rowing past, there are several things that can help you distinguish how well it is rowing regardless of the age, experience, or fitness of its members.

• Length of stroke: is the crew reaching forward, or does it have a short stroke?
• Timing: is the crew synchronized? Do the oars enter and exit the water at the same time?
• Fluidity: does the crew take its time coming up to the catch, or are they rushing?
• Balance: does the boat lean to one side, or do the oars lift up off the water?