Learn to Row FAQ
I’m going to miss the first practice during my LTR I session. Can I still register for the program?
NO! All the required safety information is covered in the first practice. If you will miss the first day, you must arrange IN ADVANCE THROUGH THE OFFICE to attend a make-up practice, otherwise plan to sign up for a different month.
My schedule has changed. Is it possible to switch to a different program time?
Yes. Please email [email protected] and let our Registrar know which program you are currently registered for, which program will work, and the date you need to transfer. Switches are subject to space availability, as programs fill quickly.
Why don’t we go on the water during the first week of practice?
Because at SRA, safety always comes first! You need a solid knowledge and safety base before going on the water. In order to prepare you for lake time, the first two practices teach you the basics: safety precautions, the boathouse routine, the rowing stroke, rowing terminology and coxswain commands. You will also watch a required Rowing Safety DVD and practice the stroke on dock rowers.
I’ve missed a practice, so can I make it up during a different class?
Yes! Except for the first practice of LTR I, make-up classes can be arranged through your LTR coach. Let your coach know about your absence and which make-up practice will work best. Look at the schedules to determine which of the other programs (offered at different times during the same month) you can attend as a make-up. Make-up practices are arranged coach to coach in advance to confirm space is available for you. If you miss more than one practice without making it up, you will need to repeat (and pay for) the entire LTR session to advance in the program.
My work schedule is irregular. Would it be possible to attend multiple practices during the sessions?
Yes. If you have a work schedule that changes frequently or is irregular, we will try our best to accommodate you. The key is to let your primary coach know in advance so they can help you make arrangements through the office and other coaches.
What should I wear once we are on the water?
Spandex or athletic fit clothing works best! The snugger the clothing the better. Loose pants and shorts can get caught in the seat slides and loose tops can get caught on the oar handle. For safety, SRA requires all independent rowers to wear high visibility (high viz) clothing. Other boaters may not see you and your boat if you are wearing dark clothing. High Viz clothing is very “in” right now so you can easily find apparel at most athletic stores and online.
I’ve really enjoyed LTR and want to continue rowing. What is the next step after LTR?
After you complete the LTR series, you have a couple of options. If you prefer team rowing, then sign up for a Novice Team, which are offered early morning, mid-morning or evenings. Teams meet three times per week and are focused on building technique and endurance. Novice rowers have a choice to compete in local regattas. A second option after completing the LTR series is to become an independent rower where you can take out 1x or 2x on your own without a coach. You must also successfully complete a flip test and a sculling checkout.
I have some experience rowing with a different club and would like to row with SRA. What program should I start with?
We are so glad you want to join us! Depending on your skill level, your rowing history and when you last rowed, we have a couple of different programs you may join. Please contact our Registrar at [email protected] to discuss the following options:
NO! All the required safety information is covered in the first practice. If you will miss the first day, you must arrange IN ADVANCE THROUGH THE OFFICE to attend a make-up practice, otherwise plan to sign up for a different month.
My schedule has changed. Is it possible to switch to a different program time?
Yes. Please email [email protected] and let our Registrar know which program you are currently registered for, which program will work, and the date you need to transfer. Switches are subject to space availability, as programs fill quickly.
Why don’t we go on the water during the first week of practice?
Because at SRA, safety always comes first! You need a solid knowledge and safety base before going on the water. In order to prepare you for lake time, the first two practices teach you the basics: safety precautions, the boathouse routine, the rowing stroke, rowing terminology and coxswain commands. You will also watch a required Rowing Safety DVD and practice the stroke on dock rowers.
I’ve missed a practice, so can I make it up during a different class?
Yes! Except for the first practice of LTR I, make-up classes can be arranged through your LTR coach. Let your coach know about your absence and which make-up practice will work best. Look at the schedules to determine which of the other programs (offered at different times during the same month) you can attend as a make-up. Make-up practices are arranged coach to coach in advance to confirm space is available for you. If you miss more than one practice without making it up, you will need to repeat (and pay for) the entire LTR session to advance in the program.
My work schedule is irregular. Would it be possible to attend multiple practices during the sessions?
Yes. If you have a work schedule that changes frequently or is irregular, we will try our best to accommodate you. The key is to let your primary coach know in advance so they can help you make arrangements through the office and other coaches.
What should I wear once we are on the water?
Spandex or athletic fit clothing works best! The snugger the clothing the better. Loose pants and shorts can get caught in the seat slides and loose tops can get caught on the oar handle. For safety, SRA requires all independent rowers to wear high visibility (high viz) clothing. Other boaters may not see you and your boat if you are wearing dark clothing. High Viz clothing is very “in” right now so you can easily find apparel at most athletic stores and online.
I’ve really enjoyed LTR and want to continue rowing. What is the next step after LTR?
After you complete the LTR series, you have a couple of options. If you prefer team rowing, then sign up for a Novice Team, which are offered early morning, mid-morning or evenings. Teams meet three times per week and are focused on building technique and endurance. Novice rowers have a choice to compete in local regattas. A second option after completing the LTR series is to become an independent rower where you can take out 1x or 2x on your own without a coach. You must also successfully complete a flip test and a sculling checkout.
I have some experience rowing with a different club and would like to row with SRA. What program should I start with?
We are so glad you want to join us! Depending on your skill level, your rowing history and when you last rowed, we have a couple of different programs you may join. Please contact our Registrar at [email protected] to discuss the following options:
- If you have at least 1 month (minimum 16 hours) of sculling experience, we recommend you sign up for our LTR II program.
- If you have had two months or more of rowing experience, we recommend you join one of our Novice Teams, or purchase an Independent Rowing Card.
- If you have rowed for 6 months or more, but it has been a few years since you’ve rowed, you may join the Novice Team to find your swing and then move up to the Experienced Team when you feel confident. You may jump into an Experienced Team, but only after discussing your rowing history with the office and the team head coach. You could also purchase an Independent Rowing Card.
