Learn to Row
Getting started in rowing couldn’t be easier!
The best way to learn to row is to go on a Learn to Row course at a local rowing club. You’ll meet other people in the same position as you, and you’ll get instruction on all the basics you need to row safely.
Book onto a Learn to Row course here:
If there isn’t a course near you or that fits your dates, find your nearest rowing club, and then just enter your postcode into the ‘Where?’ field to see a list of clubs in your search area. All you need to do is choose a club and then contact them to ask how you can learn to row!
If you have a physical disability or sensory or learning impairment, go to our Adaptive Rowing page for more information on how you can have your first rowing experience.
Find out more
Find a rowing activity
Use this tool to find a rowing club near you!
Learn to Row Courses 2024
A list of rowing clubs around the country who are running Learn2Row (L2R) courses this year for beginners of all ages
Summer Rowing Courses and Camps 2024
A round-up of intensive rowing courses in England and elsewhere, mainly for juniors, for beginners and those who want to develop their skills
Adaptive Rowing
Adaptive rowing is for people with impairments
What to Wear for Rowing
You don’t need special or expensive sports kit when you’re getting started
Frequently asked questions about learning to row
How long does it take to learn to row?
You can learn the basics of how to row in one session. Most Learn to Row (or Learn2Row/L2R ) courses last 6 weeks – once you’ve completed a L2R course, you should be able to row more or less in time, do an emergency stop and turn the boat round. Most people who want to race are able to do so within 6 months of first getting in a boat.
Is it hard to learn to row?
Rowing is quite an easy sport to learn – especially compared with sports like gymnastics, ice skating, or even tumble turns in swimming! After learning to row, if you want to race you’ll need to fine-tune your technique, and build your fitness and strength. Good technique, fitness and strength are key to making boats go faster.
How old do I have to be to start rowing?
In general, 12 years old, although most junior rowers start at 13, and some start at 11.
Am I too old to learn to row?
You’re never too old to learn to row! Last year, nearly 700 over 50-year olds took out a British Rowing membership for the first time. We have members still competing at 80+ years old as well as many who row recreationally.
How long before I could row properly?
Learn to Row courses generally last six weeks, with one, two hour session per week. This may differ from club to club.
Does it cost a lot?
Some clubs may offer free taster sessions but typically a Learn to Row course will cost between £90-£120. If you catch the bug and want to join a club, there is normally a club membership fee which may differ depending on the level you want to take up. Some clubs have special rates for young people, pensioners and social members.
Is the kit expensive?
You don’t need any special clothes to start with and the club will tell you what to wear. You definitely don’t need to buy your own boat as they will be provided by the club.
Will I get wet when learning to row?
Your hands may get wet lifting the boat in and out of the water and putting the blades away after your outing and you or your crew mates may also inadvertently splash while you’re learning, but you won’t have water running down your arms.
If you try single sculling (in a boat for one person), you may fall in although lots of people don’t. You must be able to swim 50m in clothing before learning to row and your club will also arrange for you to do a ‘capsize drill’ so you know what to do if you do fall in.
How do beginners learn to row?
The best way to learn to row is to go on a Learn to Row course at a local rowing club. Most rowing clubs run Learn to Row courses for juniors (aged around 13-18) and adults of all ages. To find your nearest rowing club, click here and then just enter your postcode into the ‘Where?’ field to see a list of clubs in your search area. All you need to do is choose a club and then ask them how you can learn to row!
