In order to get the most out of your class and for your own safety, general fitness is required.  You don't need to be a superstar athlete, but you should be able to lift 20-25 pounds overhead and touch your toes. Good balance is also necessary. As part of class, you will be lifting the boat into and out of the water. The boats sit close to the water and you will need to be able to get in and out of them under your own power.

Swim Test

Swimming ability is required for class participation. Rowing is a water sport and it's important that you feel confident in the water in case of an emergency. All students must take and successfully complete the Swim Test (swim 50 yards, tread water for 10 minutes, and don a life jacket while in the water) prior to your first class, or have earned a lifeguard or SCUBA certification within the last 5 years. 

Please bring your completed Swim Test Form, SCUBA certification or Life Guard certification to your first class.

What if I am not a strong swimmer?

• You may take the swim test wearing a life jacket if necessary. However, if you take the swim test while wearing a life jacket, you must then wear your own life jacket at all times while in a boat. We recommend an automatic inflatable life jacket (available online or at shops such as Rutabaga and West Marine).
  
• If you are unable to pass the swim test, you can drop the class and will be able to get a refund up to one week before class starts. If you think you might not be able to pass the swim test requirement, we suggest that you attempt to take the test before registering for a class.

How do I complete the swim test? 

• You may complete the swim test at any pool that is convenient for you. Bring rowing clothes that you can swim in and our Swim Test Form for the pool lifeguard to sign when you complete the test. 
• You may also take the swim test in the lake by the boathouse. Please contact learntorow@mendotarowingclub.com to make arrangements.
  
• If you are looking for a pool, the Middleton-Cross Plains High School indoor pool has administered tests for us in the past and knows what to expect. We recommend you take advantage of their $2 entry fee during their Last Call Swims (the last hour they are open for the day). Check their webpage for open swim hours.
  

Q: What should I wear to class?

A: Rowing attire is close-fitting shorts or pants and t-shirt, additional layers depending on weather, gym shoes (for land classes) or water sandals and socks (for water sessions). You do not need to wear spandex.

Q: I want to learn to row in a single. Do you teach sculling?

A: We require all new rowers to take our learn-to-row class. After completion of the class you may join our sculling program to learn more about rowing in a single.

Q: Where can I park for class?

A: Parking is available on Gorham St as well as in the James Madison Park lot at Gorham St and N Butler St.

Q: I've never rowed before. Can I take the class?

A: YES! Learn-to-Row class is designed for folks who have never rowed before.

Q: What happens to class when it is raining?

A: Classes are held in all weather. We will not go out on the water if the lake is too windy or there is lightning.

Q: I need to miss a class. Can I make it up?

A: Yes, absolutely! If you need to miss a class, you can talk to the instructor about catching up with the other concurrent Learn to Row session that week.

Q: How can I continue to row after class?

A: Anyone interested in continuing to row with the club at the conclusion of their Learn to Row class may join the Novice Rowing Program. The novice team rows through the summer and fall seasons and is designed to expose novice rowers to the rigors of the sport, continuing improving novice skills and fitness, and offer a taste of competition with the opportunity to race at regional regattas!

If you have any other questions regarding class content, contact the Learn to Row Coordinator.