Learn to Row

Riverway Rowing Club runs periodic Learn To Row (LTR) sessions for members of the public.

Details

Courses are based on 8 to 12 hours of instruction, depending on how much time each group requires. Additional training sessions can be held at no extra cost for those that need a bit more practice. Sessions are somewhat flexible depending on demand, but are generally held on weekends. Sessions usually start about 6.30am and run for 60-90 minutes, and are held on Saturday and Sunday.

Training sessions on the water are held in boats of four or eight rowers. Qualified coaches oversee the sessions.

At the completion of each LTR course, rowers are welcomed to join established crews for a taste of club membership. This Club Row also features a light breakfast where new rowers introduce themselves and are welcomed to the club.

Rowers are also welcomed to join current members for a few additional rows over two weeks before deciding to sign on with the club. This allows them a bit more practice, and to make sure they fit in and feel welcome.

Fees

Cost is $120. There are no additional equipment fees—all boats and oars are provided. A deposit of $50 is payable when booking a spot in the next course. Payments can be made via bank transfer, check, or cash. The remaining $70 is payable at the first training session.

Should LTR’ers wish to join the club, they have two weeks of rowing with current club members before the first membership fee payment of $185 becomes due. The remaining $150 becomes due in an additional six weeks.

Bookings

Bookings for Learn To Row courses can be made either by:

1. Ringing the club, organizing a booking with the club secretary, and transferring funds or mailing a check for your deposit, OR
2. Attending a sign-on breakfast with your deposit. Please ring the club so we can notify you of upcoming sign-ons. At these breakfasts, you’ll meet current members and some rowers that have just finished their LTR course.

Physical Requirements

• Good physical health
• Ability to swim 50m fully clothed
• Less than 105kg

What Should I Bring?

• First ‘dry land’ session: comfortable athletic clothes, socks, sneakers, and a water bottle
• Water sessions: tight-fitting clothes (snug T-shirt and bike shorts work well), water bottle, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. Socks and gloves are optional.

Instruction

The program is conducted both on dry land and on the water. At the completion of the course, you will be able to:

• Identify parts of the boat
• Load and launch/beach boats correctly and safely
• Square blade and feather row with basic proficiency
• Gain fitness, have fun, and meet new people

Dry Land Session topics include:

• Rowing as a Sport
• Tour of the Shed
• Introduction to Boats and Oar Types
• Ergo Training, Rowing Fundamentals
• Video Instruction

Water Session topics include:

• Introduction on the Water - safety position, hand grips, boat adjustment
• Basic stroke practice
• Learning to Feather
• PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

Other information and forms can be found in our Downloads area!