Paddling and rowing are two different types of boat propulsion. Paddling is used in boats that sit low in the water, such as canoes, kayaks, and rafts. The paddler propels the boat by swinging the paddle from side to side in an arc. Rowing is used in boats that sit high in the water, such as rowboats. A rower propels the boat by pushing and pulling on an oar with each arm from a seated position. It's important to note that rowing cannot also be done from a standing position.