Learn to row

Our next course will be start in May 2024. Please get in touch with us on information@furnivall.org if you'd like to join.

If you have rowed a small amount before or train/compete at a high level in other sports, we may still be able to accept you into the squads before the course starts. We would be happy to hear from you: please email the Club Captain on information@furnivall.org with details of your background.

At Furnivall, there’s nothing that we enjoy more than teaching people to row. Some of our "home-grown" rowers went on to compete at the Commonwealth Games… so who knows, that could be you next!

You don't need any previous experience of rowing or sculling: we’ll teach you everything that you need to know.

We'll take you to a purpose built indoor rowing facility where you can practice rowing together. And then it’s out in boats on the Thames with experienced coaches, coxes and crews.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is your next course?

The next courses will be in Spring and Summer 2024. If you're interested in taking part, please email information@furnivall.org to register your interest.

What are the requirements?

You must be over 18, able to swim 50 metres and reasonably fit. That’s it.

How long is the course? What is involved? 

The course lasts six weeks and will involve three sessions per week: a land session on the rowing machines on Wednesday evenings and two water session during late morning or early afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays.

How fit do I need to be?

Rowing at its highest level is an incredibly demanding sport. But when you are starting out, a basic level of fitness is all you need. If you are used to working out at least twice a week, you’ll be fine.

Do I need to be very tall?

We’re not going to say that being tall does not help! But much more important is having a willingness to train and ability to learn from coaches and other rowers.

Where is the course based?

Furnivall Sculling Club is just up from Hammersmith Bridge. It’s a beautiful place to row our: South facing clubroom has an incredible view of the Thames and sits above our boathouse, full of an extensive fleet of boats. Our facilities include a well-stocked weights room and an indoor-rowing room packed with Concept 2 rowing machines. We also have a great bar!

What do I need to wear?

For learn to row, you do not need any specialist rowing kit: basic gym wear will be fine. It’s a good idea to wear close fitting kit so you do not get caught up in it when you are out on the water. Wellies are necessary for getting in and out of the boat but you can borrow some of ours if you don't have your own. And bring a change of clothes: rowing is a watersport and we don’t stop for rain!

Does it matter if I can't make every session?

There is a steep learning curve at the beginning of rowing and experience tells us that those who do not miss sessions go on to make the best rowers. Plus rowing is a team sport and we need the right number of people at each session to be able to get boats out. So preference will be given to those who can attend every session.

How much does the course cost? 

The 2024 course will be £250. The full course fee will be payable when you’ve been accepted onto the course and is non-refundable.

What happens at the end of the course?

Those who graduate from the course will be able to apply to join the club to continue their development. Your first year will be spent developing your technique and fitness, along with competing in novice events in London and beyond. From there, we’ll support you towards competing in our top crews and representing us in major national races.

We look forward to meeting you: please email information@furnivall.org to register your interest!