FAQs
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
If you’re new to rowing, you should consider our Learn to Row classes. No rowing experience is necessary and it's a great introduction to sculling.
If you're an experienced rower, with your own boat or looking to use club equipment, we have a few membership options available.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The prices for our programs, membership, and boat storage are listed on the Membership Info page.
DO I HAVE TO BECOME A MEMBER IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN LEARN TO ROW?
No. It's not necessary to become a member in order to participate in our Learn to Row program. However, if you complete Learn to Row and decide you want to continue rowing you can become a member.
WILL I GET WET?
It is possible, but not likely. If you're participating in Learn to Row, we will put you out in very stable boats made for beginners which are very difficult to tip. For experienced rowers, using lighter boats, tipping is a possibility, although it's usually a rare occurrence. If you're concerned about tipping, here is a good video showing how to get back into a boat.
DO I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO SWIM?
Yes. You don't have to be able to swim long distances, but flipping is a possibility, and you need to be able to tread water or swim your boat to shore. In order to become a club member, you are required to pass a “swim test.”
SHOULD I BE IN GOOD PHYSICAL CONDITION TO START ROWING?
While rowing is regarded as low impact, you need to be prepared as well. Some organizations ask you to perform a simple three part assessment of your own:
1. Lift 30 lbs. over your head two times. You will need to help carry a sometimes bulky boat.
2. Do a deep knee bend at least twice. Your legs are an essential part of rowing.
3. Get up from a sitting position on the floor. Your hands can touch but not your knees.
Please consider rowing as only one component of your physical health. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Always dress in layers and make sure you are able to shed layers easily as you begin to warm up. Clothing should be both comfortable and tight. Like cycling clothing, it should allow you to move freely, but should not be baggy. Baggy pants, shorts, shirts and especially sweatshirts tend to get stuck in the sliding seat or oars.
ARE THERE SHOWER/LOCKER ROOMS AT RONDOUT ROWING CLUB?
No, the only amenity available is a bathroom in the Clearwater barn. You can change clothing in the barn, if necessary.
ARE MY PERSONAL BELONGINGS SECURE?
No, all participants are advised to leave any valuables in their cars to ensure the security of their personal items. RRC is not responsible for items stolen from the facility or the parking lot. Please take appropriate measures to protect your belongings. You may bring a very small dry bag to bring your keys and wallet with you in the rowing shell.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SCULLING, ROWING AND SWEEPING?
Rowing is the general term to describe sculling or sweep rowing.
According to USRowing: "Athletes with two oars – one in each hand – are scullers. There are three sculling events: the single – 1x (one person), the double – 2x (two people) and the quad – 4x (four people).
Athletes with only one oar are sweep rowers. Sweep boats may or may not carry a coxswain (pronounced cox-n) to steer and be the on-the-water coach. In boats without coxswains, one of the rowers steers by moving the rudder with his or her foot. Sweep rowers come in pairs with a coxswain (2+) and pairs without (2-), fours with a coxswain (4+) and fours without (4-) and the eight (8+), which always carries a coxswain. The eight is the fastest boat on the water. A world-level men's eight is capable of moving almost 14 miles per hour."
HOW CAN I MAKE AN INDIVIDUAL DONATION?
Supporting RRC ensures continuing our good work for years to come. And Rondout Rowing Club is a 501(c) 3 charitable organization so it's tax deductible!
To ensure that 100% of your donation goes to supporting Rondout Rowing Club, you can pay by check, made out to Rondout Rowing Club, and send to Rondout Rowing Club, PO Box 1192, Kingston, NY 12402