Learn to Row (LTR)

Learn to Row for adults is returning Summer 2025! Each session will teach you to scull (2 oars, one in each hand) and to sweep (one oar held with two hands). For more Learn to Row (LTR) information, please contact our Learn To Row Director. Note: our classes are open to adults, 18 and older. If you are interested in youth rowing programs, please reach out as we can connect you with some great area youth programs!

Learn to Row cost

The class fee, $250 per person, will include a membership to HRRC for the remaining calendar year. You’ll have access to the club boats, open rows, coaching, club events, and the ability to join/set up a boat. We’ll help you transition from Learn to Row into regular boats and HRRC activities. Our Learn to Row graduates are a great addition to our general membership!

Class schedule

Session 1: May 5, 7, 10, 12 14, 17 (M/W/Sat)
Session 2: June 9, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19 (M/W/Th)
Session 3: July 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24 (M/W/Th)
Session 4: August 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23 (M/W/Sat)

NOTE: Weekday evening classes will be from 5:45 pm – 8:00 pm. Saturday morning classes will run from 9:00 am – 11:00 am during sessions 1 and 4. Make-up classes will be scheduled in the event of poor weather or water conditions.

How to sign up

Please 1) fill out our registration form and then 2) send the $250 payment via venmo to our club treasurer (@Suzanne-Lyons-11) or mail a check to: H.R.R.C., PO Box 9269, Norfolk, VA 23505. Payment is required to hold your spot for class.

For questions or to check session availability, please contact our Learn To Row Director. Welcome to HRRC!

2025 HRRC Learn to Row Registration Form

What to expect

Classes are small and taught by an experienced adult rower. The rowing program will cover all you need to learn to be able to competently join the crew. Don’t be overwhelmed: everyone starts in the same place. It can be a lot to take in at first, but we keep the class size small so that the coaches are there for you every step. Even the coaches were in your shoes at one time, and we all remember the first time we picked up an oar.

A class consists of six, 2-hour lessons over a 2 week period. The first 1-2 lessons will familiarize you with the equipment and the different phases of the rowing stroke. Once comfortable, you will quickly move to rowing in a boat on the water. You’ll be taught rowing terminology and boat handling.  Initially, you will learn to scull (2 oars), but will also get a taste of sweep (one oar).   There will be 1 coach in the boat and one in a safety launch with you at all times, so you will always have someone nearby to work with you.

Be prepared for a good workout by dressing comfortably (t-shirt and shorts, not too loose) and bringing your own water bottle. Rowing works all of your major muscle groups, so get those legs, core, back, and arms ready!

Learn to Row prerequisites

In order to successfully learn to row, you must have good balance and overall physical mobility. You should be able to swim and perform knee bends. Please note: this course is aimed at participants aged 18 and above.

After Learn to Row

By the end of your session, you’ll graduate from the program and be able to join other members in our open row sessions to practice and get more time on the water. It may sound daunting, but remember that we are a team. The open rows are there for all members to have time with our coaches, meet other people in the club, and for all of us to learn from each other. We will help you find other novices to form boats if you’d like, and also have many events throughout the year where the club rows together as a group.

Graduates can join a crew and/or continue to work on their rowing skills with a club coach.