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.

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.

In general, 12 years old, although most junior rowers start at 13, and some start at 11.

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.

Learn to Row courses generally last six weeks, with one, two hour session per week.  This may differ from club to club.

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.

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.

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.

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!