Most participants have never set foot in a rowing shell before their first class. Classes are taught with the understanding that participants have never touched an oar before.

Our learn to row program begins with an introduction of the rowing stroke on the ergometers (or erg, indoor rowing machine) on the first day. The next two days will be spent on the water learning how to row in a sculling shell.

Expectations

Don’t worry, everyone is bad at rowing when they start. While some rowers may pick up the stroke faster than others, prepare to feel like a baby giraffe, it’s normal. We welcome all ages with our current adult rowers range from their 20s to their 80s. The course focuses on rowing technique and does not consist of hard workouts. However you will be active during class. Therefore there are some requirements:

Participants do need to certify that they can swim. You can choose to wear a life jacket at any time although it is only required in specific situations.
Participants must be comfortable lifting at least 30 pounds overhead (you will have to lift boats to carry on your shoulder).
Participants must weigh less than 230 pounds because of equipment design limitations.
Our coaches are used to working around injuries and mobility restrictions, so please let them know of any issues. Even something like a sprained ankle can create discomfort that a coach can help work around.

Upon completion of learn to row, participants will need to either continue into the devo program or take private lessons before being ready to row on their own.