2026 Dates

There are no more adult learn to row sessions planned for 2026. We will update early in 2027 with details of Taster Sessions and Learn to Row weekends.

Please email our Learn-to-Row coordinator  to be added to the waiting list.

It is also worth considering our Indoor Rowing Classes at any time (think spin class but much more fun – we think!). These coached classes run all year round, at least twice a week and are a great way to start to get involved in rowing. As well as being fun, attending these classes will be a useful grounding when you come to go on the water. Details of how to enrol are on our ‘Go-Row Indoor’ page.

Background

Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a fun way to get fit, or simply want to spend more time on the water, rowing could be the perfect sport for you. It’s suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels, provided you can swim 100 metres in light clothing. And the best part? It’s never too late to learn.

Whether you’ve never rowed before, are returning to the sport after a break, or have simply enjoyed messing about on the water and want to try something new, we’d love to welcome you.

Taster Day

If you’re completely new to rowing, our Taster Day is the ideal place to start.

Over approximately three hours, you’ll:

• Meet the club and discover what rowing is all about.
• Learn the fundamentals of rowing on an indoor rowing machine (ergo).
• Be introduced to rowing terminology and basic technique.
• Experience your first coached outing on the River Avon.

The session gives you a realistic introduction to the sport, including the physical demands, teamwork and, most importantly, safe rowing on the water.

Learn to Row Weekend

Enjoyed your Taster Day? The next step is our structured Learn to Row Weekend.

Designed for complete beginners, the course teaches the core skills and techniques needed to become a confident recreational rower in a fun, supportive environment.

The course includes:

• Expert coaching throughout.
• A Learn to Row handbook.
• An Avon County Rowing Club T-shirt on successful completion.

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll have the opportunity to join Avon County Rowing Club as a member of our Development Squad.

You’ll continue rowing with your Learn to Row group on planned coached outings, building confidence, improving your technique and gaining valuable experience on the water. As your skills develop, you’ll gradually transition into the club squad that best matches your ambitions—whether that’s men’s rowing, women’s rowing or social rowing.

We’ll even aim to enter a local race together, giving you the chance to experience the excitement of rowing in competition if you choose.

More Than Just Learning to Row

Our Learn to Row programme is about much more than mastering a new sport. It’s an opportunity to improve your fitness, enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the River Avon, meet new people and become part of a welcoming, supportive community.

Many of our members started exactly where you are now. Why not take the first stroke and see where rowing could take you?