Program Overview

Welcome to the Learn to Scull program! This guide will help you understand what to expect throughout your sculling journey, from your first day to your final assessment.

Weekend Intensive Format

The AARC Learn to Scull program uses a weekend intensive format, delivering the complete curriculum over two weekends. This format is designed for efficient skill development while accommodating busy schedules.

The program consists of 4 sessions (3 hours each) scheduled across two weekends:

Weekend 1

  • Saturday: Session 1 (8:00-11:00am)
  • Sunday: Session 2 (8:00-11:00am)

Weekend 2

  • Saturday: Session 3 (8:00-11:00am)
  • Sunday: Session 4 (8:00-11:00am)

Note: Each session includes a short break. Remember to bring your own water and snacks.

Physical Considerations

This intensive format can be physically demanding, especially for those new to rowing. Participants should be prepared for:

  • Possibility of bruising during the flip test
  • Cumulative fatigue across consecutive days of learning

Your journey will progress through these key milestones:

Milestone 1: Water Safety and Boat Familiarity

  • Understand basic terminology
  • Enter and exit the boat with assistance
  • Develop comfort with the rowing position
  • Successfully complete the flip test

Milestone 2: Basic Technique Development

  • Maintain balance in the boat
  • Execute the basic rowing stroke
  • Control direction using pressure adjustments
  • Enter and exit the boat independently

Milestone 3: Skill Refinement

  • Coordinate the full rowing sequence
  • Transition between square and feathered blades
  • Develop efficient power application
  • Row continuously for extended periods

Milestone 4: Independence

  • Launch and dock independently
  • Navigate the rowing course with confidence
  • Demonstrate proper safety awareness
  • Understand and perform basic post-rowing equipment care (cleaning and storage)

During the program, you'll be introduced to these essential components:

  • Single scull: A narrow, lightweight boat propelled by two oars
  • Oars (sculls): Two identical oars, one for each hand
  • Ergometer (Erg): A land-based rowing machine used for technique development and warm-ups.

The curriculum follows a structured progression:

Sessions 1-2: Fundamentals

  • Introduction to equipment (including ergometers)
  • Basic rowing motion (on erg and on water)
  • Safety procedures and flip test
  • Getting in/out of boats
  • First on-water experiences

Sessions 3-4: Integration and Application

  • Developing proper stroke sequencing
  • Balance and boat control
  • Power application techniques
  • Navigation and river traffic patterns
  • Independent sculling practice
  • Building endurance and confidence
  • Understanding proper equipment care (cleaning and storage)
  • Planning post-program continuation

Schedule Adjustments

Rowing is weather-dependent. If sessions need to be canceled due to unsafe conditions (lightning, excessive wind, or heavy rain), we will schedule make-up sessions as needed.

The following conditions may impact our ability to hold on-water sessions:

  • Lightning or thunderstorms within viewing or hearing distance
  • Sustained winds over 12 mph or wind gusts over 15 mph
  • Heavy rain that affects visibility
  • Fog that reduces visibility below 100 meters
  • Unsafe water conditions (excessive current, debris, or contamination)

Throughout the program, coaches will assess your progress in these key areas:

  • Safety awareness and practices
  • Technical proficiency
  • Boat handling and navigation
  • Independence and confidence

You can also track your own progress through session quizzes:

Before Your First Session

To help you feel ready for your first day on the water, we recommend completing:

Next Steps: