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"Rowing - that's just for snobs isn't it?"
The truth is, people of all backgrounds take to the water every week, enjoying one of the most rewarding (and sometimes demanding!) activities out. The object of rowing is, quite simply, to use your technique and fitness to move a boat efficiently through the water - with the aim of crossing the finishing line first! There are a wide variety of boat types, from powerful eights to ultralight one person single sculls, but initially people learn & race in a coxed (steered) four or a double.
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"So why do people row?"
One big reason has to be fitness - training has a balanced approach, which is why it is great for all round health. Top rowers, like Matthew Pinsent and James Cracknell, are amongst the fittest athletes in the world. Strength, fat-burning, cardio-vascular, flexibility, toning - you name it, Rowing clubs do it.
Rowing is a very sociable sport. Apart from meeting new people as part of the club, there are regular nights out, as well as post race celebrations. The nature of competition takes rowers to all different parts of the country, where you can compare partying in London with the Aberdeen Boat Club bar!
Let's not forget competition. Just some of the events you could compete in might include the long distance winter races, the main season side by side racing in up to eight lanes (the lead can change hands several times, and the difference between first and last can be as little as a second) or the summer sprints. Rowing is divided into ability groups, so you always row against people of your level, moving up as you win races.
Not all of our members row - we need people to steer the boats as well. Skill and motivational ability are taught so you can get your crew moving as fast as possible.
You might also be surprised how many Scots do well in international competition - for example, the current women's World Champion (in the pair class) is Glaswegian Kathrene Grainger, who won silver at the Sydney 2000 Olympics with Paisley born Gillian Lindsay, and silver at Athens. Scotland can claim a record breaking Lightweight Single Sculling World Champion in Peter Haining, who won the title an amazing three times in a row. Plenty of Clyde members have represented Scotland, and some have even gone onto row for Team GB. |
"I don't think I'm fit enough"
That can be developed over time, and we can guarantee that following the training programme and our coaches' advice will make you the fittest you've ever been! If you have any doubts, speak to your doctor to see if there is any reason you can't exercise. We do ask that people are able to swim. Although it is extremely rare for a boat to capsize, you must be able to swim 50meters in light clothing.
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"Where and When does it happen?"
We row from the West Boathouse on Glasgow Green. See the HOMEPAGE for directions.
Beginner Coaching Sessions are:
Saturday 9am
Wednesday 6pm
During the winter months, weekday sessions tend to be land training, but as soon as it's light enough, we tend to row. Keep an eye on the NOTICEBOARD (find this on the homepage) for training updates.
How often you row depends on your goals. Someone may want to go out for a paddle twice a week to de-stress and get some fresh air - others, aiming for Scotland Selection, are looking at 10 sessions a week.
You don't go out in a boat all the time, sometimes it's sessions on the rowing machine, or circuit training or running. This variety helps keep training interesting and challenging. |
"What kit do I need?"
Don't rush out and buy a load of kit. Just bring normal gym stuff. Make sure they are not too baggy, as boats have some moving parts. Bring a few layers of stuff you don't mind getting sweaty - eg rugby top and t-shirt, hat, trackies, warm socks, change of clothes, towel. In time, the club will do a bulk order on racing kit, keeping the costs down.
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"How much is it?"
Rowing isn't expensive for what you get out of it. First year adult mambership works out at 100 pounds per year (including national governing body racing licence worth 24 pounds), equivalent to less than two pounds a week. Contrast and compare to normal gym membership or any other sports class. We do npt take subs straight away - we wait untill you are sure rowing is right for you.
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"OK, How do I join?"
Couldn't be easier. Click on the picture to the right for an email link, or come to the boathouse at beginner coaching times. You will be taken to the boathouse for a look around, and have a go in a boat under the supervision of experienced rowers and coaches.
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Contact us - Click on the Picture!
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