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Ann Arbor Rowing Club

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AARC Learn to Row Program (LTR)

AARC invites you to experience the joy of rowing on Argo pond and we welcome all new rowers to our Learn to Row (LTR) classes!
In sweep rowing, each rower uses one oar in boats of 4 or 8 rowers (plus a coxswain). Sweep rowing is about working together with other athletes to enjoy the water. Come experience the joys of teamwork, camaraderie, and getting in sync with others to accomplish great things!

Our Learn to Row classes are designed for adults of all ages and abilities with no previous rowing experience. Many of our current AARC club members learned to row in one of our classes!
  

Want to be notified when we setup classes for 2023? Click here to be added to our LTR mailing list. 




Learn to Row Program Description

Phase #1: Learn to Row class

Participants will begin on land with training on Concept2 rowing machines. Once students become comfortable with the basics, the class goes out on the water in an 8 person shell. A qualified coach will ride alongside the boat in a motored launch to provide instruction and guidance for rowers as they learn the rowing stroke and techniques of rowing together. An experienced coxswain guides the boat to ensure rowers have an optimal learning experience.
  • Structured lessons occur over four weeks, meeting three times per week for approximately 90 minutes per session (See table below for meeting times.)
  • Attendance at most practices is required; Coach to student ratio of approximately 1:8. 
  • Participants will use AARC boats and equipment during lessons
  • Social events with new rowers and AARC members will help participants learn more about the sport from others doing it

 Requirements for Phase #1

  • Register and pay for Learn to Row Session (see below)
  • Sign Rowing Waiver
  • Must have sufficient mobility to enter and exit the boat safely and strength to participate in lifting the boat
  • Swimming ability (Adults over 18 must attest that you can swim)
  • LTR classes are intended for those 18 and older. Exceptions are sometimes made, but all rowers must be 16 or older. (If under 18, you need to pass the Youth Swim Test)

Phase #2: Technical Sweep Trial

Immediately after successful completion of Phase #1, the rower is invited to become a Full Member of AARC and to participate in our coached Technical Sweep Program practices for a one month trial period to experience continued growth in skills, fitness, and comfort on water.

Note that you have more schedule flexibility during Phase #2, as you select, one week in advance, which of the 6 coached practices you will attend. 
 
Requirements for Phase #2
  • Club membership - Full member ($25)
  • Complete USRowing's online SafeSport Training (~90 minutes), which requires a USRowing individual membership (~$20)


Phase #3: Technical Sweep Program

LTR graduates who have completed the Phase #2 trial, are invited to join our Technical Sweep Program and continue gaining physical fitness and rowing skills through technique-focused coaching. If you transition directly from LTR Phase #2 to the Technical Sweep Program, seasonal Technical Sweep rowing fees apply, although these may be prorated if joining mid-season. (See table below.)

Is a Learn-to-row class right for me?
 
There is no training or fitness level necessary for this class, but rowing requires a certain about of mobility to enter and exit the boat safely.  If you are able to get down to the floor in a sitting position using only one hand, and then get back up again, you should be fine.  If you have difficulties with this maneuver, you may want to take a mobility course (e.g., yoga, tai chi, etc.) to improve your flexibility before enrolling in the class.  If you have questions, please contact a coach (info@a2crew.com).

Sign up early, Classes fill fast!

  • $300 for the 6-week program or $225 for Students (college, professional & graduate students) and Veterans
  • AARC endeavors to make rowing accessible to the broad community. To support participation, scholarships are available to those with financial need.

Refund Policy


Please review our refund policy carefully before registering for a learning program.

  • If you withdraw from a class 28 or more days (4 weeks) before the first day of a class, you will receive a refund minus a $25.00 processing fee.
  • If you withdraw from a class 21-27 (3-4 weeks) days before the start date of a class, you will receive a refund minus a $50.00 processing fee or credit for another class (in the same year, if space is available), minus a $50.00 processing fee.
  • If you withdraw from a class less than 21 days (20 days or less) before the first day of the class, you will receive credit for another class (in the same year, if space is available), minus a $50.00 processing fee.
  • NO REFUNDS OR CREDITS WILL BE GIVEN ON OR AFTER THE START DATE OF THE PROGRAM. (Exceptions may be made due to injury)
  • No credits will be carried to the following year. 

LTR Class Registration
To register, click on the button for the appropriate session in the table below. 
Please review the Learn to Row Intro Packet 
Session Phase #1
Learn to Row Class
 Days Time
 Phase #2
Technical Sweep
Program Trial		 Phase #3
Technical Sweep
Program
1


 May 1-26 Mon, Wed, Fri  6:30-8:00 PM Coming Soon Coming Soon
2

   June 6-July 1 Tues, Thurs,
Sat		 T/Th: 6:30-8:30 PM
Sat: 9-10:30 AM		 Coming Soon Coming Soon
3
          
 4
          

Questions?Email info@a2crew.com   
AARC endeavors to make rowing accessible to the broad community.  Scholarships are available to those with financial need to support participation.  
AARC is a 501(c)3 organization.  Donations made to AARC may be eligible for tax deduction.  Please check with your tax consultant.
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