The rowing measurement system provides methods and apparatus for improving the performance of a boat by measuring the effect of boat deceleration and providing in-boat feedback to the crew so they can minimize the effect. Specific boat data including speed, distance, stroke rate, acceleration and deceleration can be derived from the deceleration measurements. The data is then processed, displayed, and stored to memory to provide feedback on the boat and crew's performance to the rowers and coaches both in real time and for later analysis. The performance of the boat is measured by an accelerometer and timing device, providing basis for calculating speed, stroke rate, distance, and a deceleration factor without sensors external to the boat. The information on the rowers and the boat is then displayed in real time to the coxswain or head rower to provide immediate feedback on their performance. The data is stored at the CoxDisplay for transmission to the coach or communication to a computer for further display, analysis, communication, and charting a team's improvements.