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Adult Learn to Row


Westerville Crew rowing programs attempt to match the skills and development progression of participants. One size does not fit all with respect to training programs and coaching curriculum so the programs are offered with distinct intentions and overarching goals.
The basic progression for adults 21+ who are new to rowing is to attend a no-cost Introduction session and then complete a 5 week Learn to Row program (fees apply). After 1-2 Learn to Row cycles, the goal is to have you prepared to join the practices that experienced rowers participate in and row alongside them.

Please send a message to masters@westervillecrew.org if you have additional questions!

Introduction to Adult Learn-to-Row: Free Info Session

We highly recommend that those new to the sport of rowing attend one of our free info sessions held prior to the start of a Learn-to-Row cycle. You will have the opportunity to receive an intro to rowing on a Concept2 rowing machine and get into a 8-person rowing shell for a hands-on experience taking the shell to the reservoir. Time permitting, a brief jaunt on the water to follow.

Registering in advance here is preferred so that we have the appropriate equipment available.

Next Discover Rowing Day: August 10th, 9:30AM - 10:30AM

After Discover Rowing, those who would like to participate in Learn To Row will be provided a registration link for that program.

Adult Learn to Row

Program Details:

 

  • Participants should plan on attending all classes. If a class is missed, the participant can make it up at the end of the program. No more than 2 classes should be missed.

  • Space is limited to 8 participants

  • Bring water and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.)

  • Weather appropriate clothing

  • Wear a non-baggy shirt

  • Spandex/running shorts (short and tight-fitting shorts - we row in sliding seats and long basketball shorts tend to get caught in the wheels of the slide when worn)

  • Our boats have their own shoes in them, so please wear socks

  • Bring an excited and ready to learn attitude to experience a new sport and meet our crew!

Fee: $175 per 8 session block

Learn to Row Schedule

Week 1 Weeks 2-5
Monday, August 12 6:00PM - 8:00PM Tuesday, August 20 6:00PM - 8:00PM
Tuesday, August 13 6:00PM - 8:00PM Tuesday, August 27 6:00PM - 8:00PM
Thursday, August 15 6:00PM - 8:00PM Tuesday, September 3 6:00PM - 8:00PM
Saturday, August 16 7:00AM - 9:00AM Tuesday, September 10 6:00PM - 8:00PM

FAQ

 
Q: I’ve never rowed before. Can I take this class?

A: Yes! Learn To Row is designed for those who have never rowed before.  It is also a good place for those who rowed previously to become reacquainted with the sport.

 
Q: What kind of rowing will be taught?

A: Our Learn To Row program will focus on sweep rowing. Sweep rowing is when each rower has just one oar and usually there is a non-rowing coxswain on board to direct the crew. Sculling is when each rower has two oars. Sculling boats are often smaller, without a coxswain.  

 
Q: Where do classes take place?

A: Weather permitting, classes will take place at our facility at the JCC Family Park at 4290 E Walnut St., Westerville, OH 43081.  Parking instructions can be found online at westervillecrew.org.  If the weather does not cooperate, we will meet at the erg facility located at 6363 Cooper Rd, Columbus, OH 43231. Notifications will be sent out via our group messaging system in the event of location changes. Instructions on how to sign up for this system will be given to registered participants.

 
Q: What happens if I need to miss a class?

A: Ideally we like to keep our Learn To Row participants on the same schedule, however as busy adults, we know this is not always possible. If sessions are missed, the individual can make up those sessions at the end of the program during our regular rowing times on Mondays and Saturdays.

 
Q: What happens after the Learn To Row Program?

A: At the end of Learn To Row, participants have several paths to continue rowing:

  • Masters Program – This program is offered Monday, Tuesday & Thursday Evening and Saturday Morning. Rowers commit to at least 2-3 days per week, but are encouraged to attend all 4. These rowers compete at several regattas each year and these sessions work to that end. Fee: $700/year

  • Learning Skills Rowing – These sessions are offered on Tuesday evenings and consist of all rowing levels whether working toward regatta competition or just learning skills.  These sessions are included in Masters Fees. Non-masters rowers/Guest rowers pay-as-you-go at $20/session and participation is dependent on seat availability.  Observation in the coach’s boat (also known as a launch)  is encouraged and free. Rowers advance to the Masters Program upon consultation with and recommendation of the coaching staff.

  • Learn To Row – Individuals may repeat the Learn To Row program as many times as they would like.  

 
Q: What is involved in becoming a Masters Rower?

A: 

  • Masters Rowers compete at several (3-4/season) regattas during the summer and fall.  These regattas generally take place on weekends and are held in locations such as Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, & Tennessee. WRC hosts 2 regattas a year which include Masters races. Masters are not required to attend all the regattas, but are expected to compete at regattas and consistency in participation aids our success. 

  • Skill levels range from Novice to Competitive, and rowers should commit to attending practices at least 2-3 days per week. Recreational rowers are better served in the Learning Skills Rowing or Learn To Row paths. 

  • Rowing and hosting regattas require a tremendous dedication to each other and to the team. Our Masters rowers contribute many volunteer hours each year to help build the success of our program. Volunteer commitment is a requirement of all Westerville Rowing Club members.

 
Q: What are the physical requirements for rowing?

A: 

  • Lifting: Rowers need to carry boats to and from the water. Each rower needs to contribute to this effort and should be able to lift approximately 30 lbs overhead and carry this weight on their shoulder.

  • Swimming: Rowers need to be able to swim and tread water for a minimum of 10 minutes.

  • Size/Fitness: Our boats can accommodate rowers up to 285 lbs. Fitness level should allow for the rower to be able to handle 60 continuous minutes of moderate and 10-15 minutes of vigorous cardio activity. Fitness levels may vary at the Learn To Row level, but those wishing to advance to Masters rowing should meet those specified fitness requirements.  Rowing does require a lot of mobility, particularly of the hamstrings and back. Individuals with mobility issues should consult our Learn To Row instructors as well as their doctor/physical therapist to discuss concerns and determine if rowing is a good fit.

  • Age: Masters rowers typically need to be a minimum of 21 years old by December 31. There is no upper age limit in the sport of rowing.

Next Steps!

If you have questions or would like to join the Learn To Row Program, let Betsy Binnig know (masters@westervillecrew.org) and she’ll send you instructions.