How do you execute 'Stand by to give way together, Give way together' commands?

• A. Everyone leans forward, arms straight out, and place the blade in the water ready for the first stroke. Everyone starts to row forward.
• B. Everyone leans backward, arms straight out, and place the blade in the water.
• C. Everyone leans forward, arms straight out, and place the blade in the water ready for the first stroke. Everyone starts to row forward.
• D. All crew step back to relieve tension and then proceed.

Answer: (C)

Coordinated starts in rowing hinge on entering the catch position with the blade in the water and the body ready, so when the command to give way is issued, everyone drives forward together. This option matches that sequence: the crew leans forward, arms straight, blades in the water ready for the first stroke, and then all begin rowing forward. That creates a clean, simultaneous start and maximizes propulsion right from the first stroke.

The other descriptions don’t fit the start sequence as well. Leaning backward or starting to row before the signal disrupts balance and timing, while stepping back to relieve tension changes the boat’s alignment and delays the synchronized launch.