Adult Learn to Row (LTR)

Our on-the-water Learn to Row will return in the Spring of 2025!

Eligibility for our Spring Learn to Row is unlocked by participating in our Community Indoor Rowing Program over the winter. You can get started by attending an upcoming Workshop!

The Greater Columbus Rowing Association at Griggs Boathouse is excited to host again this year our FREE Community Intro to Indoor Rowing Workshops, open to anyone age 18 and over.  Join us on Saturday, December 14th from 11:30am-12:30pm.

The workshop is designed to introduce you to two things: the rowing stroke on the indoor rowing machine and our learn-to-row opportunities open to the community. You will get:

  • Hands-on practice on the rowing machine.

  • A tour of our boathouse facility.

  • Insight into our programs directly from member volunteers.

Interested in more? Workshop participation unlocks your eligibility to participate in our winter community indoor rowing program – details will be shared at the workshop!

On the Water LTR Program Overview:

Duration: 

LTR will run for five weeks. 

Why five weeks? 

Our LTR is designed to be comprehensive enough to allow you the opportunity to gain sufficient proficiency to join GCRA as a member upon completion.

Program Outline:

Week 1: We will begin with indoor rowing machines to familiarize you with body mechanics and the vocabulary of rowing. 

Weeks 2-5: We will transition to on-water training, allowing you to experience both rowing disciplines:

  • Sweep Rowing: Each rower uses one oar, typically in an 8-person boat with a coxswain.

  • Sculling: Each rower uses two oars, in a 4-person boat with a coxswain

Registration Options (select only one): 

Weekday Program

  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 5:45-7:45 pm, beginning June 10, except June 19 (holiday); last session July 12.

    (sample dates only - days/times may vary by session)

Hybrid Program

  • Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, beginning June 11, except July 4 (holiday); last session July 14.

  • Tuesday, Thursday: 5:45-7:45 pm

  • Sunday:  8:00-10:00 am

    (sample dates only - days/times may vary by session)

**Sessions will be capped at 12 rowers each**

What else should I know?

Swim Evaluation: Rowing is a water sport. We will schedule a swim evaluation for participants during the first week of the program. The swim evaluation is not a race and not a physical fitness test; rather, it is a measure of your ability to stay calm in the water and move proficiently on your own accord if needed. 

  • 10 minutes of treading water.

  • Putting on a life jacket while afloat.

  • Swimming a  lap in any style you prefer.

“I may have a few date conflicts. What should I do?”

Our learn to row program is designed to progress each participant session to session; however, we understand there may be some unavoidable conflicts. If your conflicts are limited, you should be able to still receive a good experience that prepares you to continue rowing with our club. \

"I'm ready! How do I reserve my seat?"

1. To register, click here and choose EITHER the hybrid or weekday program.

2. Fee is $350. 

“I’m not ready yet – how can I learn more about rowing?”

Not sure if you’re ready to register? Join us for an Intro to Rowing Workshop on June 1st , 11 am-12 pm at GCRA’s boathouse (3033 Thoburn Rd. in Duranceau Park) for National Learn To Row Day! 

If you have any questions, you can email GCRA President Sarah at gcrapresident@gmail.com and/or Coach Kyle at gcraheadcoach@gmail.com.