• Adaptive rowing is open to amputeeIndividuals who have at least one major joint in a limb missing (ie elbow, wrist, knee, ankle)., vision impairedThis refers to any group condition which interferes with 'normal' vision. This incorporates the entire range of vision difficulties, from correctable conditions through to total blindness. and cerebral palsyA disorder of movement and posture due to damage to an area of the brain that controls and coordinates muscle tone, reflexes, posture and movement. "Cerebral" mean brain-centred; "palsy" is a lack of muscle control. athletes.
• The term ‘adaptive’ means that the rowing equipment is adapted or changed to help the athlete row.
• Rowing is open to men and women and is divided into four boat classes.
• All races are held over 1,000 metres.
• Rowing is the youngest Paralympic sport having only being introduced in BeijingHome of the 2008 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. in 2008.

ClassificationAthletes are classified by classifiers into classes by their ability to function. The aim is to ensure that athletes of similar ability compete against one another.

• LTA4+: A four-person, male and female, sweep-oara long oar used in an open boat boat plus coxA person who steers and gives instructions in a racing boat with sliding seats. Open to athletes with a disabilityA Disability is generally a condition either caused by accident, trauma, genetics or disease, which may restrict a person's mental processes, senses or mobility. but who have movement in the legs, trunkthe body of a person excluding the head and limbs; torso. and arms. A boat can include a maximum of two visually impaired athletes.
• TA2x: A two-person, male and female sculla light, narrow racing boat for one, two, or sometimes four rowers, each equipped with a pair of oars for athletes with trunk and arm movement only.
• AM1x: A fixed-seat single scull boat for men. Athletes have full movement in their arms only.
• AW1x: A fixed-seat single scull boat for women. Athletes have full movement in their arms only.