My child is a coxswain. Is there a minimum weight, and what happens if they're under it?
Rule- USA
- USRowing
- Youth rowing
- High school
- Under 19
- USRowing Rules of Rowing
- 2026 rules
- Parents
Yes. Under Rules of Rowing 4-105.1, a coxswain must weigh at least:
| Event | Minimum coxswain weight |
|---|---|
| Men's crews | 120 lb |
| Women's crews | 110 lb |
| Mixed crews | 120 lb |
- A coxswain under the minimum carries deadweight to make up the difference. It goes in the boat as close to the coxswain's torso as possible, can't be spread around the boat, and stays in the boat for the whole race. Officials may split it into several weights for the coxswain's safety.
- Excess clothing, equipment, electronics and tools don't count toward the coxswain's weight or the deadweight.
- If the coxswain doesn't have the deadweight at the finish, the crew isn't placed.
- Coxswains weigh in once a day, in racing uniform without shoes. Weighing in late (but before the first relevant race) usually brings a warning. Not weighing in at all makes the coxswain ineligible.
A coxswain of any sex can cox men's or women's crews (4-105).
Updated 21 Oct 2026