Session 1: Getting Started with Sculling
Session 1
Introduction
Session 2
Building Skills
Session 3
Refinement
Session 4
Independence
Welcome to your first Learn to Scull session! This guide will help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and what you’ll learn during your initial class.
Session 1 Objectives
By the end of this session, you should have a basic understanding of sculling equipment, safety protocols, and the fundamental rowing motion.
Preparation for Session 1
- AARC liability waiver
- US Rowing waiver
These forms will be provided by email before your first session or can be completed upon arrival.
- Water bottle (32 oz/1 liter minimum)
- Athletic, form-fitting clothing (avoid baggy shorts/pants)
- Bright, high-visibility clothing for safety
- Hat, sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen
- Towel and complete change of clothes for after the flip test
- Small snack for the break
- Review the Basic Rowing Terminology
- Understand that getting wet is part of the learning process
- Review the Sculling Self-Rescue Guide
- Watch the Session 1 Videos to familiarize yourself with the upcoming concepts.
- Approach the session with patience and an open mind
- Rowing engages many muscle groups - you may use muscles you don't typically use
- Balance is challenging at first - the boats are designed to be narrow
- You'll need to bend low to get into and out of the boat
Preparation Tip
Getting a good night's sleep before your first session will help you absorb new information and skills more effectively.
Skills Practice
Introduction & Land Training
- Program overview and safety protocols
- Introduction to coaches and fellow participants
- Overview of the Learn to Scull progression
- Boathouse orientation, rules and etiquette
- Basic rowing terminology
- Learning the stroke sequence: catch, drive, finish, recovery
- Practicing components of the stroke (e.g., legs only, body swing)
- Hands-on practice with coach feedback
- Parts of the shell and oars
- Coach demonstration: Safe boat carrying techniques
- Coach demonstration: Getting in and out of the boat (dockside)
- Coach demonstration: Basic maneuvering (e.g., stopping, gentle turning)
- Coach demonstration: Self-rescue & Flip test
Break
- Rest, hydrate, and prepare for water activities
Water Introduction & Safety
- Guided assistance into a training shell
- Practice basic balance and boat feel at the dock
- The Flip Test / Capsize Drill
What to do if your boat capsizes:
- Stay Calm & Stay With Your Boat: Your shell provides buoyancy
- Manage Oars: Keep them nearby; they help stabilize for re-entry
- Right the Shell: If upside down, gently flip it back over
- Position Oars: Arrange oars perpendicular to the boat for stability
- Re-Enter: Use a strong leg kick to boost yourself back into the boat
- Simple rowing technique exercises near the dock
Wrap-Up & Equipment Care
- Question and answer session
- Coach demonstration and practice: Proper cleaning and storage of boats and oars
- Preview of Session 2 content
- Homework assignments
Coach's Tip
Don't worry about perfection on your first day. Focus on getting comfortable around the equipment and understanding the basic movements.
After Your First Session
- To reinforce what you've learned, you can optionally review the Session 1 Quiz.
- You can also optionally review the Session 1 Videos to reinforce what you've learned.
- Practice the rowing sequence mentally to build muscle memory
- Prepare questions for your next session
Looking Ahead
In Session 2, you'll build on these fundamentals by:
- Refining your understanding of the rowing stroke
- Developing better boat balance and control
- Learning to maneuver and steer the boat
- Getting more independent on the water