Why do scullers row backwards, pulling the oars? Why not push the oars instead, so you can face forward?

Question

Why do scullers row backwards, pulling the oars? Why not push the oars instead, so you can face forward?

Answer 1

Pushing involves using the triceps which are strong.

But pulling involves the biceps and the Legs which together make an even stronger combination than pushing

Answer 2

It's easier to pull than push.

Answer 3

Because the human body is built that way;  our arm & chest muscles pull best, the abdomen & leg muscles push best.

Answer 4

You get more power into the stroke when you put your back into it because you're using much stronger muscle groups.

Answer 5

you use more muscles when you pull than when you push