Goal setting theory (Locke, 1968) has applied to various fields. It's been proved to be an effective and important way to inspire the employees, raise the morale of the team, increase the output and enhance the performance of athletics. However, there's no research about goal setting theory applied to rowing, that urges the author to analyze the literature of goal setting theory in the field of athletics. The purpose of this study is to apply progressive goal setting in teaching rowing. To help the coaches and the players comprehend progressive goal setting and set a practical goal to achieve effectively.