I'm ready to learn how to row!

AARC's Learn to Row (LTR) classes are designed for adults of all ages and abilities with no previous rowing experience. (If you are looking for information on Youth Learn to Row that can be found here.) Classes are scheduled throughout the spring and early summer, and are designed to prepare rowers for AARC's Basic Skills Development program. The curriculum focuses primarily upon technique rather than athletic ability, so it is well suited for those looking for an engaging sport with which to become more physically active.

What are the classes like?

LTR sessions start on land, with safety, technique, and sequence training that takes place on ergometers ("ergs" or rowing machines). Then we move into a training barge that provides students the opportunity to work with oars on the water in a stable boat. We quickly move into an eight person shell, and use what we've learned to really start rowing. There is no training or fitness level necessary for this class. Your fitness level will increase during the class, and rowers who continue and join the club will realize the cardiovascular and core strength development that rowing provides.

What is the time commitment?

LTR sessions run for four weeks, three times a week. The first four weeks are "Core" classes, designed to teach safety and technique. Students interested in continuing on to Basic Skills Development should then participate, for no extra charge, in the Learn to Row "Applied" two week session designed to allow new rowers the opportunity to apply their new skills on the water and ease the transition for rowers from student to club member. Learn to Row Applied Rowing begins the week following completion of the initial course.

What should I expect after LTR?

First, you'll get a great Learn to Row t-shirt! Second, you are invited to join our Basic Skills Development program and continue gaining physical fitness and rowing skills through technique-focused coaching. New rowers are partnered with a more experienced member of the club who will be able to answer any questions they might have. Many people are surprised to find how long it takes to get really comfortable in the boats. Don't be discouraged! It happened to everyone at the beginning. The long road to improvement is one of the most challenging and satisfying aspects of the sport. In the meantime you'll see your health improve, and you'll be spending active time on the river, and there's nothing wrong with that.

Qualifications

In order to take one of AARC's Learn to Row classes, you must register online and pass a Swim Test.

The swim test can be taken at any public pool staffed by a Red Cross certified lifeguard or swim instructor. This is standard policy for USRowing affiliated clubs. The test must be completed by ALL rowers BEFORE getting into a boat. More details on where to find a pool with a Red Cross certified lifeguard and downloadable forms are available on the Swim Test Page. You do NOT have to complete your swim test to register. Please complete the LTR Registration form online to guarantee a spot in class, then complete the swim test prior to the second day of class. Completed swim test forms may be mailed in or brought to class.

There are no physical requirements for taking a Learn to Row class. AARC has taught Learn to Row to youth and adults of all ages and physical abilities. Contrary to what most people think, rowing is a sport that primarily uses the legs, not the upper body. However, it also develops excellent flexibility and "core" (abs and back) strength. In addition, rowing develops good cardiovascular ability at the more developed stages, but Learn to Row classes do not focus on fitness at first.

If you want to prepare for your Learn to Row class, the best thing you can do is walk or run to build cardiovascular fitness and stretch your warm muscles afterwards to build flexibility. Pay particular attention to the leg groups (quads, hams, calves) and your back and shoulders (lower back, obliques, delts, lats). You might also do a few sets of situps to strengthen your abs and lower back. However, please remember that no training is necessary to take a Learn to Row class.

Attendance Policy

Each Core session consists of 12 sessions over 4 weeks, for a total of 3 rows per week. Because of the cumulative nature of the instruction, we ask that participants be able to attend all of the first 6 sessions (first 2 weeks). Greater flexibility of attendance can be more easily accommodated during the remainder of the course, although we strongly recommend no more than two absences in order for all participants to completely benefit from the curriculum. We are all very literally in the same boat and therefore, we rely on each other to participate! The following two-week Applied Rowing session is optional, but will allow you to apply what you've learned and greatly increase core competency and comfort for rowers who wish to continue on in the sport and the club.

Schedule

AARC schedules Learn to Row classes throughout each rowing season. Classes are limited to 10 registrants, so sign up quickly to ensure your seat! Each class consists of 3 rows per week over 4 weeks, for a total of 12 rowing sessions. The class numbers in the chart below DO NOT denote different skill levels, but merely different sessions. The curriculum is identical for all classes.

AARC cannot guarantee that you will be assigned to your first choice class. We will do everything we can to accommodate you, but please select a second choice that you can take in case your first choice is full or cancelled due to under-enrollment. If you can only attend your first choice class, please email the LTR Facilitator Karen Gates (kgates@a2crew.com) before completing your registration. You will be enrolled in your second-choice session if your first choice is over- or under-enrolled, and refunds are subject to AARC's Refund Policy.

Please note:  Classes run Monday/Wednesday/Friday OR Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday.  The Saturday class session will be held in the morning, with a specific start time mutually selected by the members and instructor of that class session.

Classes in red are closed. Email ltr@a2crew.com to inquire about last-minute availability.

* This class begins on a Wednesday, due to the Memorial Day holiday.

Fees

AARC Learn to Row tuition = $195*

* A special tuition rate is available for college undergraduate or graduate students.  Please email Karen Gates (kgates@a2crew.com) for more information before registration.

Please read and be aware of our Refund Policy prior to making the commitment to our programs.

Registration

Registration for all AARC programs must be done with a credit card through the SPORG online membership registration system. The appropriate SPORG forms can be accessed by clicking the red "Register" buttons on each page. 

PLEASE NOTE: All rowers are required to pass a swim test, which must be signed by a Red Cross certified lifeguard or swim instructor. This is standard policy for USRowing affiliated clubs. The test must be completed by ALL rowers BEFORE getting into a boat. Details available on the Swim Test Page.

If you have registration questions, please email ltr@a2crew.com.

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