LEARN-TO-ROW
LEARN TO ROW WITH US!
Whether you’re 12 or 80, new to sport or a seasoned athlete looking for a new challenge, Learn-to-Row is your gateway to rowing. Our Learn to Row Edmonton programs welcome beginners of all ages in courses that are are fun, supportive, and hands-on. You’ll learn the basics of rowing on land and water under expert guidance. By the end of the program, you’ll be confidently rowing on the North Saskatchewan River.
Our programs for Adults (19+) and Youth (12–18) are similar in structure but tailored to each group. Both require no prior experience, just enthusiasm. ERC’s coaches break down everything into simple steps: from holding the oars and syncing in the boat to mastering safety rules. Many participants find themselves improving each day and excited to continue rowing. As one beginner put it:
“Social Proof – Learn-to-Row graduate quote”
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
6 sessions over 3 weeks | Small Groups | Beginner Friendly
- Expert Coaching: Our seasoned coaches will guide you every step of the way. You’ll learn proper technique from day one, preventing bad habits and reducing injury risk.
- Structured Learning: Each Learn-to-Row session (6 lessons over 3 weeks) covers specific goals:
- Session 1: Indoor rowing machines and rowing tank (practice stroke and balance).
- Session 2 through 6: Team boats on the river (start with stable 4–8 person boats, then progress).
- Safety, flow patterns, and boat handling are taught throughout.
- Inclusive Environment: You’ll row in groups with other beginners. Everyone is cheering for each other’s success. No athletic background is required – share the excitement of learning a new skill together with other participants.
THIS PROGRAM IS PERFECT FOR
- Complete beginners
- Adults looking for a low-impact full-body workout
- Teens interested in trying a new sport
- People who enjoy outdoor fitness
- Anyone curious about rowing
Ages 12 & Up!
Discover the joy of rowing in just four hours! You’ll go from indoor rowing basics to gliding on open water – all for only $45.
Whether you’re curious about the sport or seeking a fun new single-day adventure, this session makes for a wonderful group adventure. No experience is needed, and all are welcome. We can’t wait to row with you!
Please note, this is an introductory single-day session for those looking for something fun to do with friends on a weekend. A full six-course (over 3 weeks) learn-to-row course is required to become a member of the club.
upcoming Intro to Rowing sessions
THAT’S A WRAP ON 2026 INTRO TO ROW SESSIONS.
THANK YOU EDMONTON! After unprecedented interest we have sold out Intro-to-Rowing and wrapped up our season. Don’t worry, we’re working behind the scenes to plan our 2027 sessions. If you’re interested in joining us, please add your name to our waitlist and we’ll be sure to email you as soon as the sessions are open for registration.
LEARN TO ROW FOR AGES 19 - 80+
Our Adult Learn-to-Row is perfect for anyone seeking fitness and adventure. No matter your age or fitness level, you’ll find a challenge that’s right for you. After the course, many grads join our Sport/Rec program to continue rowing for fun.
Those interested in more of a challenge can work through our development pathway towards competitive membership.
What to Expect
- No experience needed!
- Six lessons over three weeks.
- Rowing on the indoor rower to learn proper body sequencing
- Rowing in our indoor tank to further develop body sequencing and learn basic rowing techniques before hitting the river.
- Flow pattern, PFD usage and safety rules of the Edmonton Rowing Club
- Safe equipment handling
- Basic on-water rowing skills in a number of different sized crew boats!
Program Structure
- Day 1 (Indoor): You’ll start on rowing machines and in our indoor rowing tank. You will learn core stroke sequence. Everyone gets plenty of one-on-one help.
- Days 2 – 6 (On Water): We launch in a multi-person boat with a coach or coxswain. You learn to coordinate with your teammates. Those progressing quickly might find themselves in a double or single by the final session.
- Progress at Your Pace: All classes are beginner-friendly. Coaches adapt to your comfort level. You’ll never feel pushed beyond what’s safe.
Cost & Registration
$240 (tax included) + RCA/ARA insurance fee ($64.75).
$100 credit applied to your membership if you join the club in the same season as your Learn-to-Row.
Program Pathway
- Adults Learn to Row (Multiple sessions May – August)
- Transition & Gain Experience (our Learn to Train Program)
- Sport: Recreational drop-in program.
- Competitive: Train to race in regattas!
Most participants start with little or now rowing experience – and many haven’t exercised in years.
FAQ
Do I need to be fit to start?
No. Our classes start gently and build gradually. The workouts improve your fitness over the course.
Please note, our boats must be carried down and back up a steep hill to the water. Participants should be able to lift and carry 20 to 30 lbs.
What if I miss a session?
Contact us – we may have makeup options or guide you when you return. These classes are designed to ensure we have enough athletes to fill our eights and quads (4 person boats). Missing a practice can make the session difficult for your team mates who do show up. Please ensure you try to do not miss sessions.
What should I wear?
Athletic clothes (tights or shorts, t-shirt) and running shoes. Avoid loose garments as they may get caught in the oars and seat slides. Bring water, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
How do I register?
Spots are limited in each session to ensure we have the appropriate number of athletes to fill our boats. Register early via our online portal or contact us at info@edmontonrowing.ca to ensure you are on our waitlist for spring and summer 2026 sessions.
What if it's raining?
We row rain or shine! Unless the water levels are dangerously high and/or fast, or there is lightning, we will not cancel a session. If we cancel a session, we will reschedule to ensure you get the full learn-to-row experience.
what comes after learn-to-row
LEARN-TO-TRAIN (LTT)
Eligibility: Open to ADULT Learn-to-Row (LTR) graduates or those with prior rowing experience, ages 18+.
Program Purpose: For Learn-to-Row graduates or those rowers returning to the sport after a significant hiatus, rowers will be with our novice coach during coached sport sessions. Our novice coach will help you hone your skills, improve technique, and build fitness to transition seamlessly to our Sport and Rec program!
Schedule: There are LTT session scheduled two times per week, on Mondays and Tuesdays from 6 – 8 pm.
Fees: $750 + $64.75 RCA/ARA insurance (if not already paid in LRT). Visit our membership page to learn more about our fees and volunteer requirements.
Coaching & Safety: All sessions are led by experienced coaches in a supportive and engaging environment.
The Learn-to-Train program is a feature of the Sport Membership! Once you register as a sport member at the ERC you’ll receive details on how to sign up for the LTT sessions in a welcome email.
upcoming learn-to-row sessions
Reserve your spot and start rowing this season.
adult learn-to-row Fall s11
Weekday nights, one week
Start: Monday, September 21, 2026
End: Friday, September 25, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $160 $240 +64.75 RCA/ARA Fees
$100 Discount off membership if you join after Learn-to-Row
Learn-to-Row for ages 12 - 18
Younger rowers start with fun, energetic sessions. We cover the same basics as our adult learn-to-row program, but with coaches experienced in working with teens. The focus is on learning while having a blast! Completed LTR students often transition into our year-round junior development or performance programs.
What to Expect
- No experience needed!
- Six lessons over three weeks.
- Rowing on the indoor rower to learn proper body sequencing
- Rowing in our indoor tank to further develop body sequencing and learn basic rowing techniques before hitting the river.
- Flow pattern, PFD usage and safety rules of the Edmonton Rowing Club
- Safe equipment handling
- Basic on-water rowing skills in a number of different sized crew boats!
Program Structure
- Day 1 (Indoor): You’ll start on rowing machines and in our indoor rowing tank. You will learn core stroke sequence. Everyone gets plenty of one-on-one help.
- Days 2 – 6 (On Water): We launch in a multi-person boat with a coach or coxswain. You learn to coordinate with your teammates. Those progressing quickly might find themselves in a double or single by the final session.
- Progress at Your Pace: All classes are beginner-friendly. Coaches adapt to your comfort level. You’ll never feel pushed beyond what’s safe.
Cost & Registration
$240 (tax included) + $64.75 RCA/ARA insurance fee.
$100 credit applied to your Junior Membership if you join the club in the same season as your LTR!
Program Pathway
- Juniors Learn to Row (Multiple sessions May–October)
- Join as a Youth Member
- Development (Green): Recreational drop-in program.
- Competitive (Gold): Train to compete in regattas!
What if it rains?
We row rain or shine! Unless the water levels are dangerously high and/or fast, or there is lightning, we will not cancel a session. If we cancel a session, we will reschedule to ensure you get the full learn-to-row experience.
What Comes After Learn-to-Row?
At Edmonton Rowing Club, junior athletes follow a clear, supportive development pathway designed to grow with them – whether they want to row for fitness, friendship, or competition.
After completing Learn-to-Row, athletes move into our Junior Development Program, where they:
- Refine technique
- Build strength and endurance
- Train in age-appropriate crews
- Experience optional regional racing in Alberta
For athletes who want to commit at a higher level, our Junior Competitive Program offers:
- Additional structured training plans
- Strength and conditioning
- Provincial and national regatta opportunities
- A team environment focused on growth and accountability
Every step is coach-guided. Every athlete progresses at the right pace.
Rowing builds confidence, resilience, teamwork, and lifelong fitness – many of our juniors stay with the club for years becasue tehy find more than a sport here. They find belonging.
Want to see the full Junior pathway, schedules, expectations, and parent guide?
upcoming learn-to-row sessions
Reserve your spot and start rowing this season.
YOUTH learn-to-row fall S7
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Start: September 12, 2026
End: September 13, 2026
Time: 8:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Location: Buena Vista Park
Cost: $150 $240 +64.75 RCA/ARA Fees
$100 Discount off membership if you join after Learn-to-Row
*One weekend session with our Junior team coaches.
FAQ
Do I need experience?
No. This is designed for first-timers.
Is this "on the water"?
Yes. You’ll start indoors and then go onto the river with coaches.
What should I wear?
Athletic clothing in layers if cool, and light breathable clothing that protects you from UV light if it’s warm to hot. Details will be emailed after you register.
What if the session I want is full?
Join the waitlist for the session you want. Due to Intro to Rowing popularity, we cannot guarantee that you’ll be enrolled in the session you want if it’s already full. We suggest finding an alternate listed date that works for you.
What's next after Intro to Rowing?
Most participants continue into Adult or Youth Learn-to-Row programs.
What if it's raining?
We row rain or shine! Unless the water levels are dangerously high and/or fast, or there is lightning, we will not cancel a session. If we cancel a session due to inclement weather, we will do our best to reschedule you into an available session or reschedule for a new, unlisted date and time.