Learn to Row
We welcome new members of all abilities
The club welcomes rowers with previous experience of the sport, whether this is at university, club or junior level. The men’s and women’s squads operate a training programme incorporating land fitness training and water based training sessions. For competitive and ambitious rowers and those with the desire to win, the club encourages ergometer tests, weights sessions and on water fitness tests. There is ample opportunity for progression between the squads for those with the right attitude and aptitude.
Who can learn to row?
Simple answer is anyone! Whether your ambition is to be an Olympic rower or just to enjoy paddling up and down the lake, our Learn to Row course is the first step on that journey. Everyone starts at the same place and by the end of the course, you can decide where your rowing journey will take you.
If you happen to be very tall, have super long limbs and have a background in sport at a higher level and want to try rowing; the option of trialling for the GB Rowing World Class Start programme is also available. More information on that can be found on our Row with Leeds page.
Can children Learn to Row?
Absolutely. Our new Junior Rowing Academy programme is designed to give children the best possible opportunity to develop their rowing skills. We run testing sessions every year for children in Year 8 and those we think most likely to do well, we invite to our Learn to Row Programme. This starts with indoor rowing after Christmas and moves onto the water at Easter.
Children on the Academy programme will have fun, learn about team work, get active and develop new skills both on and off the water.
We do not take children until they are in Year 8 and although we can sometimes take those in Year 9, we cannot usually offer Academy places to children after Year 8.
What happens on our adult Learn to Row courses?
1
Introduction to rowing
Before we get you in the boat, you’ll be taught basic rowing technique and terms on an ergo (indoor rowing machine).
2
4 Learn to row sessions at Roundhay lake
In our special, stable learner boats, we’ll get your group learning the basics of rowing in Roundhay Lake.
3
6 free novice group sessions
Included in the price, you’ll have 5 weeks of the Learn to Row course followed by 2-3 sessions in either the Recreational or the Development Squad at Roundhay Lake. After that you will need to join the club to continue.
4
Choose your pathway
You can remain at the lake with our Recreational Rowing Group or, if you want to train hard and commit to regular attendance, you continue in the Development Squad at the lake and after 12 months transfer to the Thwaite Lane Boathouse at the canal and join the racing squad.
Join our waiting list
Our adult waiting list for Learn to Row rose steeply during lockdown as we could not run any courses. Learn to Row is up and running again now but the wiat is still over 12 months. If you would like to join the list please fill out the form on the right with your information, please include any rowing experience you may have had before.
Alternatively, if you’d like to know more, please contact us on rowingatleeds@gmail.com for more information.