Preparing for Your First Session

Welcome to the Learn to Scull program! This guide provides essential information to help you prepare for your first session, ensuring you arrive ready and confident.

Please bring the following items to each session:

  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial.
  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin, even on cloudy days.
  • Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are best for reducing glare off the water.
  • Hat or Visor: For sun protection and to keep hair out of your eyes.
  • Towel: For drying off after the session or if you get wet.
  • Change of Clothes (optional): You might want dry clothes for after the flip test.

Choose comfortable, athletic clothing that allows for a full range of motion and won't interfere with equipment. Safety and visibility are key.

  • Close-Fitting Athletic Wear: Opt for items like bike shorts, leggings, or fitted athletic tops. Loose clothing (baggy shorts/tops) can get caught in the sliding seat or oars.
  • Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Synthetics (polyester, nylon, spandex) are best as they dry quickly. Avoid cotton, which stays wet.
  • Layers: Be prepared for changing weather with layers you can add or remove. A light windbreaker or waterproof jacket is useful.
  • Bright Colors: High-visibility clothing (e.g., neon yellow, orange, bright green) is strongly recommended to make you more visible on the water.
  • Socks: You'll typically row in socks. Bring socks that can get damp.
  • Shoes for Land: Wear athletic shoes (sneakers/trainers) for land activities and carrying equipment. You'll remove them before entering the boat.

Safety is our top priority. Always remember:

  • Listen to Your Coaches: Follow all instructions from your coaches immediately and without question, especially regarding safety.
  • Inform Coaches of Concerns: If you have any medical conditions, are not a strong swimmer, or have any concerns, please inform your coach before getting on the water.
  • PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices): Your coach will instruct you on PFD usage. If you are not a confident swimmer or feel uncomfortable, request a PFD.
  • Buddy System: Stay with the group and be aware of your fellow rowers.
  • Handling Equipment: Learn the proper techniques for handling boats and oars to prevent injury and equipment damage. Always ask for help if you are unsure.
  • Flip Test: You will participate in a supervised capsize drill (flip test) to learn how to recover if your boat overturns. This is a crucial safety skill.
  • Shared Space: The boathouse and docks are shared spaces. Be mindful of other users and club members.
  • Equipment Care: Treat all club equipment with respect. Report any damage to your coach immediately.
  • Cleanliness: Help keep the boathouse tidy. Dispose of trash properly and rinse your equipment as instructed.
  • Noise Levels: Be considerate of others, especially when instruction is in progress.
  • Dock Awareness: Docks can be slippery. Walk carefully and be aware of boat traffic.

Your first day will be a mix of land-based and on-water instruction. You can expect to:

  • Meet your coaches and fellow participants.
  • Get an overview of rowing terminology and basic boat handling.
  • Learn about safety procedures and boathouse rules.
  • Practice basic rowing movements on an ergometer (rowing machine) or a stable dockside platform.
  • Get familiar with handling oars and getting in and out of a rowing shell.
  • Participate in a supervised capsize drill (flip test) to learn self-rescue techniques.
  • Potentially have your first experience rowing on the water in a stable training boat, with close supervision.

The focus will be on safety, familiarization, and learning fundamental techniques in a supportive environment. Don't worry about mastering everything at once – rowing is a skill that develops over time with practice.

Most importantly, come with a positive attitude, be ready to learn, and have fun!

Next Step: