Thinking about taking up rowing, but not sure where to start? Read on!
Rowing is a fantastic sport for all ages and abilities – it’s a great way to get fit, enjoy the outdoors, meet new people and become part of a ‘crewmunity’!
But if you’ve never rowed before, or if the last time you took to the water was years ago at school, you may be wondering how (and where) to get started. You may also be wondering if rowing is accessible to you, either financially or geographically, particularly if you don’t live near a river.
Well, the good news is, there are lots of ways to enjoy the sport, from rowing on lakes and canals to coastal and surf, or even indoor rowing.
In terms of costs, membership fees are typically similar to those of a local gym. Clubs will provide the necessary equipment for rowing, and you’ll just need some comfortable training gear to get started.
If you enjoy the sport and go on to compete for your club, that’s when you’ll need to factor in some budget to purchase club-branded kit, but most clubs tend to order in bulk at specific times of year, so you’ll benefit from team discounts.
Getting Started
Don’t know your bow from your stern? No problem. A great way to dip your toes (or oars) for the first time is to sign up for a ‘Learn to Row’ course. According to the British Rowing website, it typically costs £90 to £120 for a six to eight-week course, and various clubs across the UK offer them (NB: course availability will vary depending on the time of year).
The easiest way to find a course near you is to use British Rowing’s Go Row portal here…
If you can’t find a course that suits your location or dates, you can always search for a local rowing club and ask them directly. Again, British Rowing have a comprehensive portal to help you find a club near you: Find a rowing activity - British Rowing
University is also a great way to get involved with the sport for the first time, all while enjoying the social aspect too! Look out for the Boat Club stand at your university’s Fresher’s Fair and see if it’s the crew for you!
From Novice to Elite Rowing Clubs
Depending on your level of experience and what you want to get out of rowing, you’ll want to do your homework when it comes to joining a club. For example, do you see rowing as more of a recreational sport, are you interested in competing at races and regattas, or do you have ambitions of rowing at the highest level?
Whatever your goal in rowing, research is the key! Find your nearest club and its contact details here . Delve deeper by researching the club's website, and even better, pop down and check it out for yourself.
When it comes to joining, you’ll generally be asked to complete a simple questionnaire, covering your experience and ambitions, whether you cox or row, side or scull, etc. Depending on your experience and the club, you may be asked to complete an on-water test to determine the best squad for you.
Adaptive Rowing Clubs
There are now several clubs across the country that offer adaptive rowing, breaking down barriers to the sport for individuals with impairments or disabilities. At British Rowing, an Adaptive Rowing Working Group of volunteers is on hand to discuss the best options for you. To get started, use their form to find out more.
Rowing is a great sport with so many benefits, and we highly recommend giving it a go! If you do decide to take the plunge (!) and join a club, keep posted for our upcoming blog on ‘Top 5 pieces of kit you need for rowing’.
If you’re still mulling over whether rowing is the sport for you, check out our blog ‘Why Rowing is Good for You’.
