LEARN TO ROW
Rowing is an exhilarating full-body sport that welcomes all ages and fitness levels. At the Edmonton Rowing Club, our Learn to Row program is designed for beginners who want to experience the thrill of rowing in a fun, supportive environment. By joining a ‘Learn to Row’ program, you’ll receive expert guidance from experienced coaches who can teach you proper technique and help you progress at your own pace. Explore our 3 program offerings below.
At your Learn-to-Row Session expect to learn
- Rowing on the indoor rower to learn proper body sequencing
- Rowing in our indoor tank to develop body sequencing and learn basic rowing techniques before hitting the river.
- Flow pattern, PFD usage and safety rules of the Edmonton Rowing Club
- Safe equipment handling
- Basic on-water rowing skills in a single (one-person boat), double (two-person boat), quad (four-person boat), and/or a coxed eight (one coxwain and 8 rowers)
Intro to Rowing Program
Discover the joy of rowing with our Introduction to Rowing experience, offered on select Saturdays this summer! In just four hours, you’ll go from indoor rowing basics to gliding on open water—all for only $40. Whether you’re curious about the sport or seeking a fun new adventure, this session is perfect for individuals, couples, and groups. No experience is needed, and all are welcome (ages 12 to 80+). Come enjoy the beauty of the river, connect with others, and maybe even find a new passion. We can’t wait to row with you!
Register Today for our 2025 Intro to Rowing sessions!
What to Expect
- No experience needed!
- Five lessons, Monday–Friday.
- Learn rowing basics, technique, and key terminology.
Program Structure
- Step 1: Start on rowing machines to learn movements and water safety.
- Step 2: Move to larger 4–8 person boats for on-water training.
- Step 3: Feeling confident? Try a single-person boat!
Cost & Registration
$240 (tax included) + RCA/ARA insurance fee.
$280 credit applied to your Junior Membership if you join the club.
Program Pathway
- Juniors Learn to Row (Multiple sessions May–October)
- Join as a Youth Member
- Development: Recreational drop-in program.
- Performance: Train to compete in regattas!
Junior Development Program
Junior Training
Our Junior Program trains year-round with afternoon sessions throughout the week. From May to October, we row on the river, and from November to April, we train indoors with erg workouts and a rowing tank. Athletes can row in various boats, from singles to coxed eights, and those interested in racing can compete in age-specific and novice events. No pressure—just show up, train, and improve at your own pace!
Spring 2025 Recruitment Junior Learn-to-Rows
Learn to Row (Ages 19–80+)
What to Expect
- No experience needed!
- Six lessons over three weeks.
- Learn rowing basics, technique, and key terminology
Program Structure
- Step 1: Start on rowing machines to learn movements and water safety.
- Step 2: Move to larger 4–8 person boats for on-water training.
- Step 3: Feeling confident? Try a single-person boat!
Cost & Registration
$240 (tax included) + RCA/ARA insurance fee.
$280 credit applied to your Sport or Competitive Membership if you join the club.
Program Pathway
- Adults Learn to Row (Multiple sessions May–October)
- Transition & Gain Experience
- Sport: Recreational drop-in program.
- Competitive: Train to race in regattas!
2025 Adult Learn to Row sessions below. Register today!
ADULT LTR-S1
Start: May 5, 2025
End: May 26, 2025
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $240 + ARA/RCA membership fees
6 lessons of Learn to Row on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm
- Monday, May 5
- Wednesday, May 7
- Monday, May 12
- Wednesday, May 14
- Wednesday, May 21
- Monday May 26
There will be no session on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19.
ADULT LTR-S2
Start: May 6, 2025
End: May 22, 2025
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $240 + ARA/RCA membership fees
6 lessons of Learn to Row on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.
- Tuesday, May 6
- Thursday, May 8
- Tuesday, May 13
- Thursday, May 15
- Tuesday, May 20
- Thursday, May 22
ADULT LTR-S3
Start: Jun 2, 2025
End: June 18, 2025
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $240 + ARA/RCA membership fees
6 lessons of Learn to Row on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.
- Monday, June 2
- Wednesday, June 4
- Monday, June 9
- Wednesday, June 11
- Monday, June 16
- Wednesday, June 18
ADULT LTR-S4
Start: June 3, 2025
End: June 19, 2025
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $240 + ARA/RCA membership fees
6 lessons of Learn to Row on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.
- Tuesday, June 3
- Thursday, June 5
- Tuesday, June 10
- Thursday, June 12
- Tuesday, June 17
- Thursday, June 19
Rowing for Sport & Recreation
Fitness, Friendship & the Joy of Being on the Water
Why Row for Sport & Recreation?
Full-Body Fitness
Rowing builds strength, endurance, and flexibility with minimal impact on joints.
A Sport for Life
Suitable for all ages and abilities, from beginners to experienced rowers.
Stress Relief & Mental Clarity
Enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the water while staying active.
Social & Community Connection
Rowing fosters teamwork, friendships, and a supportive environment.
No Experience? No Problem!
Our coaches and programs make it easy to get started at any level.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Explore Our Recreational Youth Programs
Recreational Rowing (Junior Development Program)
Eligibility: Open to youth ages 12–18 looking to row for fun and develop skills.
Program Focus:Structured training that fosters personal growth, teamwork, and inclusiveness.
Training Model:Based on Rowing Canada’s LTAD framework, starting with “Learn to Train” and progressing through “Train to Train.”
Training Schedule:Year-round program with afternoon sessions; on-water training from May–October and indoor training from November–April.
Equipment & Boats: Athletes train in various rowing shells, including singles, doubles, quads, and eights.
Flexible Attendance: Up to six coached workouts per week, but attendance is not mandatory—progress depends on participation.
Intake Periods:
Explore Our Recreational Adult Programs
Learn to Train Program – Continue your learning
Eligibility: Open to Learn to Row (LTR) graduates or those with prior rowing experience, ages 18+.
Program Purpose:Helps rowers refine skills, improve technique, and build fitness before transitioning to full club membership.
Schedule & Commitment: Includes four sessions within sport rowing, available on weekday evenings and weekends; attendance at registered practices is expected.
Fees: $160 + ERC/ARA insurance (if not already paid in LTR); up to $280 of course fees can be applied to a 2024/2025 annual membership (valid until March 31, 2025).
Coaching & Safety: All sessions are led by experienced coaches in a supportive and engaging environment.
More information: Please contact hannahsmith@edmontonrowing.ca
Sport Rowing Program - Get Active & Get Connected
Eligibility: Open to Learn to Train graduates or experienced rowers, ages 18+.
Program Overview: Recreational rowing program focused on community, fitness, and fun, with optional regional regatta participation.
Schedule: Row as often as desired during Sport Rowing scheduled hours; most participants row 3–4 times per week.
Fees: $620 annual membership or $400 post-secondary student membership (April 1 – Aug 31) + RCA/ARA insurance (paid once per year).
Additional Commitment:Members must complete 2 bingo volunteer shifts and 20 hours of club support (e.g., dock moving, event assistance).
