Riverside Rowing Club L2R Program

Riverside is well known for iys successful Leran to Row course for adults. The course is strongly supported by our experienced membesr and qualified coaching team and allows you to start your rowing career in a safe, structured and welcoming environment,

When are the Learn 2 Row Sessions?
Our Learn to Row program comprises of four to six sessions. Each session commences in the sheds on our rowing machines and simulator for individual tuition on basic rowing techniques before moving onto the water. You'll have the opportunity to row from your first visit to the club and we aim to put beginners on the water at every class. The upcoming sessions will be on the 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th March 2020, starting at 8:00am,

During these sessions, you'll learn how to:
- be safe on and off the water
- take the rowing technique learnt on the land and apply it in the boat
- row as part of a crew
- handle rowing equipment (boats, blades, riggers, rowing machines)

Once the basics have been learnt, the final 2 sessions focus on stroke correction over longer distances (5 to 7km), rowing in both sweep oar and scull boats and, depending on interest, small boats.

Please note that depending on numbers we may need to do rotations in the boats and we ask for your patience.

What do I row in?
While at first glance our beginners' boats are similar to the boats used at the Olympics, they are wider and more stable and are easier to balance while you learn to row.

Who can row?
Riverside members range in years from late teens to the eighties and age is no barrier.

Who do I row with?
We pride ourselves on oour ability to put experienced club members into every beginners' crew and you will have the support of several long-time rowers and our coaching team when you're on the water.

Do I have to be fit and in shape?
It certainly helps. However, the main obstacle to becoming a competent rower, especially at the start, is technique and we work on developing your fitness during the Learn to Row course. Similarly, weight is not a concern unless you're unable to safely step in and step out of the boats.

What about injury?
We ask you to disclose any injuries on the first day of the course. For adults, you're expected to let us know if you have any aggravation on the water or after a session, and to manage your injuries.

What do I wear?
Loose clothing is a hazard as it will get caught in the seat and snag in the oar, therefore close fitting gym gear is recommended. You can't wear shoes in the boat and we recommend either socks or bare feet when on the water. Please use sunscreen and carry water.

Does it matter if I can't make every session?
Making every session is not essential, but missing sessions will slow down your progress. Rowing is a team sport where we need the right number of people in the boats and preference will be given to those without availability issues. As a general rule, we require you to attend 4 out of 6 sessions before joining the club.

Do I have to be able to swim?
Yes, in order to participate you must sign to say that you can swim 100m unaided. But don't worry; it's extremely rare for large boats to capsize and it's never happened in our beginners' course in the past.

What's the cost?
The cost is a very reasonable $100 for the course and is deductible from your membership fees if you choose to join.

Where is the club located?
Riverside Rowing Club is located on the south/city side of the River Torrens, about 200m west of the Morphett Street bridge. There is free parking on the sealed access road behind the club, but cycling is encouraged.

Please contact Doug Raymond, Coach Coordinator via email if you will be attended the L2R Program Douglas.Raymond@adam.com.au