FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHO IS LEARN2ROW FOR?

Learn2row is for anyone aged 12 or over. Whether you have dabbled at rowing in your youth, or whether the closest you’ve ever got to the sport is watching the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race, Swindon Rowing Club gives you the chance to get in a boat and have a go.

Testing the waters - a new member’s first time in a ‘fine’ boat

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN TO ROW?

The Swindon Rowing Club learn2row course lasts for four sessions but this is only the starting point. It can take months to develop and there is always something a rower can improve upon. If you’re looking to compete then there is highly active competitive community all over the country. Wiltshire alone has at least a dozen races and regattas to become involved in. Or if you’re just looking to keep fit and socialise, then either way Swindon can support you.

Waiting their turn - two new members look on at a young learner

WHAT DOES LEARN2ROW TEACH ME?

In the four initial sessions we aim to cover the following:

•     Proper posture    
•     General balance
•     The components of a stroke
•     Steering the boat
•     Rowing within a crew
•     General safety
•     Fitness exercises

For more information on what is covered during the learn2row course, see the Scheme Content page.

AM I TOO OLD OR TOO YOUNG?

There is no upper age limit, but the youngest age for the course or membership to the club is 12 years. This is the standard for most clubs as advised by our National Governing Body, British Rowing.

HOW MUCH DOES LEARN2ROW COST?

Prices vary from club to club. At Swindon RC, the four session learn2row course costs £50 including the use of all equipment and coaching. In this time we will ensure you have learnt enough to become a full member at the club if you chose to join.

You cannot join Swindon RC if you have not learnt to row.

Full membership details can be found on the Membership page.

DO I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SWIM?

Yes. You must be able to swim at least 50m fully clothed so that you can get yourself to shore should there be a capsize.

WHEN IS THE NEXT LEARN2ROW COURSE?

If it is not published on the apply page then we do not know. Dates are published as soon as our volunteers commit to running a course.

DOES EXPERIENCE OF OTHER WATERSPORTS HELP?

Not necessarily. You may have water confidence from other sports but rowing requires precision in the technique which is not as easy to grasp as the basics of many other watersports.

CAN YOU CATER FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES OR LEARNING DIFFICULTIES?

It is best to contact us with your specific needs. Some disabilities and learning difficulties would cause very little change in what we would ordinarily do, others might require further equipment or training. We will always do our best to help, even if ultimately we have to direct you to other clubs with more facilities.