Riverside is well known for its successful "Learn to Row" course for adults. The course is strongly supported by our experienced members and qualified coaching team and allows you to start your rowing career in a safe, structured and welcoming environment.
Learn to Row courses are held throughout the year. All potential members MUST attend an Induction Course before they can be accepted as a full
member.
The Learn to Row course fee is
$200.00
subject to change without notice.
The next Learn to Row course will be scheduled soon. Send an enquiry to join our waitlist!
Our Learn to Row program comprises 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.
During these sessions, you’ll learn how to:
Once the basics have been learnt, the final sessions focus on stroke correction, 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 in the boats and we ask for your patience.
Making every session is not essential, but missing sessions will slow down your progress. Rowing is team sport where we need to get 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.
It certainly helps. However, the main obstacle to becoming a competent rower - especially at the start - is technique and we can 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. If you think this may be an issue, please contact us for a discrete and respectful discussion.
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 with your specialists. However, we can provide you with information explaining the range of movement and application of power in rowing for you to take to your appointments.
Loose clothing is a hazard as it will get caught in the seat and snag the oar! Close fitting (but not lycra tight) gym gear is recommended.
You can’t wear shoes in the boat and we recommend socks rather than bare feet when on the water.
Regardless of the weather forecast, please bring:
While at first glance our beginner’s boats are similar to the boats used at the Olympics, they are wider and more stable and are easy to balance while you learn to row.
Riverside Rowing Club is located an easy walk from City West and East campuses on the south/city side of Torrens Lake, about 200M west of the Morphett Street bridge.
Parking & other transport options (note there is limited parking at the club)
For further information please view our map.
Riverside members range in years from late teens to the eighties and age is no barrier to participation. However, please contact us direct if you’re under 18 for arrangements to be made.