ADULT RECREATIONAL / SPORT ROWING IN EDMONTON
a fun, social way to stay active outdoors - no racing required
Beginner friendly • Evenings & weekends • All equipment provided
Looking for a fun, low-stress way to get fit and make friends?
Our Adult Recreational program (also called Sport) is where many members row after completing our Learn-to-Row course. It’s designed for adults who want to stay active, improve their rowing skills, and enjoy time on the river – without the pressure of competition.
WHO IS SPORT ROWING FOR?
- A fun way to stay active outdoors
- Structured workouts without pressure
- A supportive community of rowers
- The option to race – but no expectation to compete
Many members join after completing our Learn-to-Row course and continue rowing recreationally for years.
Others, with previous rowing experience, jump right in to where they left off.
I joined rowing wanting an interesting outdoor fitness option but I stayed in Sport because of the vibrant community, wonderfully supportive coaches and unique physical challenge of rowing. Being on the river is my favourite part of the day!
WHAT SPORT ROWING IS LIKE
Coached Workouts
Evening and weekend sessions led by experienced coaches.
Flexible Schedule
Row once a week or several times – many members fit rowing around work.
Supportive Community
Rowers often grab coffee after practice and socialize at club events.
Optional Racing
Some members try local regattas, but competition is never required.
New to rowing? Start with our Learn-to-Row course.
You’ll learn the basics in a supportive small-group environment.
WHAT A TYPICAL SESSION LOOKS LIKE
- Meet at the boathouse and warm-up on land
- Carry boats to the water and launch
- Row on the river for 60 – 90 minutes
- Coaches give technical tips from a motorboat
- Return boats and debrief with the team
Sessions take place on the North Saskatchewan River, one of Canada’s most scenic urban rowing venues.
GETTING STARTED
- Prerequisite: Complete Learn-to-Row or have rowing experience.
- Typical Session: We warm up on land, then row for ~1 – 1.5 hours on the river. Coaches will be in a motor boat offering tips and on-water safety. After, you’ll help bring boats in (it’s teamwork!) and stretch together.
- Equipment: Club provides boats and oars; just show up in gym wear, bring sun protection, your PFD (available here) and water. Male and female change rooms and showers are available at our indoor training facility.
- Membership: Adult Recreation is part of our full Club membership (see Membership page for fees). No extra charges beyond membership.
HOW TO START
Take Learn-to-Row (Beginner Course)
Join the Adult Recreational Program
New to Rowing? Start Here!
Experienced Rower
Join Sport Rowing
FAQ
I'm an experienced rower - is this for me?
Absolutely. If you don’t want the early-morning schedule, Sport rowing is perfect. You’ll join members with years of experience – this isn’t just for novice rowers – this is a program that offers flexibility, camaraderie, and fitness.
What if I travel or have an erratic schedule?
No problem. Attend any available session when you can. If you’re gone for a few weeks, just rejoin in your next free slot. We don’t penalize irregular attendance.
Looking for a punch pass? Visit our Membership page to learn more about this drop-in option.
How do I improve if I don't race?
Our Sport coaches are focused on Sport rowers. They provide technical feedback and you can participate in our Saturday morning time-trials just for fitness tracking. Many sport/recreation rowers will beat their personal best times on water and erg (rowing machine) as they progress through the program. Sport is for fitness, fun, and camaraderie.
Can I just come by to try a practice?
We have a great four hour Intro to Rowing session where you can dip your toes into the world of rowing. This is a great opportunity to discover rowing by yourself or with friends. You will learn the basics of form on land before you head out into one of our crew boats with your friends and other program registrations. Click here to learn more!
Do you offer punch passes?
Yes, visit our Membership page for info and pricing for punch passes.
Interested? Start with our Adult Learn-to-Row Program
View the 2026 practice schedule