Off-Season Beginner Training

Winter Training

Row Off-Season in edmonton

Don’t wait for summer to start rowing! Our Off-Season Beginner Program keeps you moving through fall and winter in Edmonton. New rowers join our membership and train indoors on the erg (rowing machine) and at the Edmonton Rowing Club’s Buena Vista Park indoor rowing facility. Under coach guidance, you’ll learn proper technique safely before hitting the river in spring.

This program helps you hit the water ready to row. You’ll build cardio fitness and strength so that when May arrives, you’ll hit the water already confident with the basics. Plus, staying active in winter improves mood and energy through dark months. Our sessions are energetic (music is often playing) and supportive – with opportunities for socializing outside of our club with your new found friends.

Program Highlights

  • Technique focus: Learn correct form on the erg (foot drive, body swing, arm “pull”). Coaches provide feedback and guidance.
  • Variety: We mix machine rowing with a unique indoor rowing tank (water simulation). You’ll experience actual oar movement safely seated in a heated pool environment (don’t worry, you won’t get in the water).
  • Small Groups: We limit session size so everyone gets personal attention. you’ll train with fellow rookies and existing membership – we encourage camaraderie.

Who Should Join?

  • Complete beginners eager to start rowing before summer.
  • Learn-to-Row grads who want to maintain skills.
  • Adults or teens wanting a challenging winter fitness routine.
  • Anyone who wants the head start – by spring you’ll already know the basics ahead of your on-water Learn-to-Row classes.

Logistics & FAQs

  • Schedule: Select weeknights (Juniors 4 – 6 pm, Adults 6 – 8 pm) and weekends. Pick which sessions you wish to attend. Held at our indoor facility (indoor tank & gym).
  • Cost: Membership fees are prorated based on when you join. Visit our membership page here for pricing details. 
Can late teens join?

Yes, we accept any youth (12 – 18) with parental consent.

Give us a shout at info@edmontonrowing.ca and we can discuss available options.

Bring gym clothes, bottled water and CLEAN INDOOR shoes. We supply the rowing machines, rowing tank access, yoga mats for stretching, and some weights.