Joining a rowing club in the Netherlands was a great way to get fit, meet people, and learn a new skill. One of the fun challenges? Getting the hang of Dutch rowing commands. At first, they felt a bit like a puzzle, but over time, they became second nature. If you’re starting out, don’t worry—it’s all part of the process. Here are some of the commands that took a little getting used to, but now make the experience even more enjoyable.
“Slag klaar maken!”
Translation: Get ready for the stroke (with oars flat on the water)
Reality: Ready for what now? When I first heard this command, I’d freeze like a deer in headlights, convinced I’d somehow missed an entire chapter of Rowing 101. Turns out, it just means get yourself into position and act like you know what you’re doing. At this point, your oars should be flat on the water, and you’re getting yourself ready for the next step. Pro tip: look at the person in front of you and copy them like your grade depends on it. It’s all part of the learning journey—and yes, even the deer-in-headlights moments can be fun.
“Slag klaar!”
Translation: Ready for the stroke (with oars vertical in the water)
Reality: Oh good, more preparation. This one’s like “slag klaar maken” but with extra flair. It’s the rowing equivalent of a flight attendant telling you to “please prepare for takeoff.” This command is your official signal to get your oars vertical in the water and get in sync with the crew. Everyone should be ready to take the first stroke. It’s the final preparation step before you begin moving the boat. Your focus needs to be sharp, and you’ll know it’s time to go once you hear “roeien” (Row!).
“Roeien!”
Translation: Row!
Reality: Action time! “Roeien!” is the Dutch equivalent of “go, go, go!” and marks the moment when everyone starts pulling in unison. It’s a test of your coordination, strength, and focus. If you’re out of sync, don’t worry—practice makes perfect (and trust me, everyone has been there). And let’s be honest, the occasional oar clash is just part of the fun.
“Rustig aan!”
Translation: Take it easy.
Reality: A phrase to savor. “Rustig aan” is a reminder to slow down and enjoy the process. Whether it’s to adjust your pace or catch your breath, it’s the kind of command that encourages both teamwork and self-awareness. It’s a lovely reminder that rowing isn’t just about speed—it’s about flow.
“Laat lopen!”
Translation: Oars flat on the water, allowing the boat to glide
Reality: The best command ever invented. “Laat lopen” is the cue to stop rowing and let the boat glide, which is Dutch for “you can relax now, champ.” It’s the moment you realize there’s a rhythm to this sport, and sometimes that rhythm includes taking a well-deserved break. Trust me, it’s a highlight—and it’s when you’ll really feel the magic of rowing.
“Houden!”
Translation: Stop! Oars vertical in the water, bringing the boat to a stop
Reality: When you hear “houden,” it’s your signal to hit the brakes—figuratively, of course. Everyone immediately positions their oars vertically in the water to slow down or stop the boat. It’s like applying the brakes in a car, but smoother and synchronized across the crew. This command is essential when you need to bring the boat to a quick halt or avoid clashes with other boats. Think of it as your boat’s emergency stop button—super handy in tight situations!
Key Difference:
- “Houden!” = Oars vertical in the water, bringing the boat to a stop.
- “Laat lopen!” = Oars flat on the water, allowing the boat to glide.
“Haal stuurboord”
Translation: Pull on the starboard side (right side) to steer right
Reality: This one might sound like a pirate command, but it’s actually pretty simple. When you hear “haal,” it means “pull” on the oar, and “stuurboord” means the right side of the boat (the starboard side). So, when you hear “haal stuurboord,” you’re being told to row forward and help steer the boat to the right. Think of it like using your oar to gently nudge the boat in the direction you want it to go. It’s like being the GPS, but with more muscle!
“Striken bakboord”
Translation: Push backward on the port side (left side) to steer left
Reality: Ah, “striken” — now that’s a tricky one. As a beginner, I spent most of my time on the rowing machine learning to pull the oar, so when I first heard “striken,” I was thrown for a loop. Suddenly, instead of pulling, I had to push the oar backward. Talk about a plot twist! But “striken” is just rowing in reverse. When you hear “striken bakboord,” it means to push backward on the oar on the left side (port) to steer the boat left. It’s like trying to reverse a boat in perfect sync—imagine pushing a shopping cart backward with precision, except you’re on water, and you’re trying not to splash anyone (or yourself). At first, I was all over the place, but eventually, I got the hang of it. It’s just part of the learning curve, and now, I look forward to using “striken” like a pro.
The Secret to Mastering Dutch Rowing Commands
At first, the commands felt like a challenge—a blend of learning a new language and a new sport at the same time. But over time, I realized the beauty of it: rowing commands are simple, direct, and meant to bring everyone together. Just like rowing itself, they’re all about finding harmony.
Learning these commands didn’t just make me a better rower—it helped me connect with my teammates and feel more at home in the boat. Putting in the effort to learn them is part of the fun and helps build a stronger sense of community. They’re simple to pick up, and every time you understand and respond to one, it’s a small victory that brings you closer to your crew.
There’s something deeply satisfying about being in sync with others, even if it takes a little trial and error (and laughter) to get there.
So, if you’re ever in a Dutch rowing boat and hear “slag klaar maken,” don’t stress. Grab your oar, smile, and enjoy the ride. It’s all part of the adventure—and trust me, the journey is just as fun as the destination.
