Adult Learn-to-row Program
Learn the basic techniques of sculling and sweep rowing and build the strength, endurance, flexibility, and stability to row on the water.
- Led by experienced coaches
- Small-group, one-on-one feedback
- Ideal for beginners learning fundamentals
- Good for returning rowers looking to get on the water
Each session is 4 weeks with three practices per week.
Get Fit to Row - Session I and II
Learn the rowing stroke on a rowing machine (erg), build strength, balance, endurance, core power, and flexibility to prepare for on-water rowing. All sessions take place at Omni Fitness Center, 54 State Street, Albany, and include full Omni membership with 24/7 key card access, cardio and strength equipment, and private locker rooms with showers.
Learn-to-row I
For adults with no previous rowing experience. Starts with on-land instruction to learn the basic rowing stroke technique. Moves to on-water rowing to learn sculling and sweep rowing. All sessions take place at the Albany Rowing Center boathouse at the Corning Preserve Public Boat Launch, located north of the intersection of Colonie St. and Water St.
Learn-to-row II
For adults with previous experience or those who have completed Learn-to-row I. Starts with on-water instruction to improve rowing technique with the goal of joining our adult (Masters) programs.
More about our Masters Program
Get Fit To Row
Pick 3 practice days:
5:30 - 7:00am Monday - Friday
6:30 - 8:00am Saturday
6:15 - 7:45pm Monday, Wednesday & Friday
-
Session I
Jan 20 - Feb 13
-
Session II
Feb 17 - March 13
-
Cost
$200
Mornings - Session A
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday from 5:30 - 7:00am
-
Learn-to-row I
May 19 - June 12
-
Learn-to-row II
June 16 - Aug 10
-
Cost
$250
Evenings - Session B
Monday, Wednesday & Friday from 6:30 - 8:00pm
-
Learn-to-row I
June 22 - July 17
-
Learn-to-row II
July 20 - Aug 14
-
Cost
$250
Mornings - Session C
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday from 5:30 - 7:00am
-
Learn-to-row I
July 21 - Aug 14
-
Learn-to-row II
Aug 15 - Sept 18
-
Cost
$250
At the boathouse: Arrive early & dress appropriately
Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled on-water time to warm up and get organized. Wear comfortable athletic clothing that can get wet or dirty. Avoid baggy shirts, shorts or pants that could get stuck on the oar handles or the sliding seat. Shoes are not worn in the boat, so be sure to wear durable socks. Rowing is a water sport and it is easy to get wet, so bring a change of clothes.
Important Links
- pool Swim test certification form
- article Information packet for new rowers
- book Coxswains handbook for learn-to-row
- play_circle Rowing stroke video from Concept2
warning Pre-requisites
- All participants must know how to swim and complete the swim test certification before the first practice. Note that rowers do not wear life jackets in the boat. The coaching launch is equipped with life jackets for every rower.
- You should expect to lift 25-30 lbs above your head. A fully-rigged eight person rowing shell weighs around 200 pounds. With eight people lifting and carrying, each person shoulders 25 to 30 pounds. You should consult with your physician before starting any strenuous exercise program such as rowing.