Adult Learn to Row

We’d love to share our sport with you.

Our Learn to Row program is held during the summer months on beautiful Bachman Lake, near Love Field airport. Each Learn to Row session is a series of 6 classes over a two-week period. These classes are designed for adults. If you are still in high school, please see our Junior’s Team page. During the two weeks, we will teach you the general stroke in team boats and in singles. Each class builds on the last, so attendance is critical to success, and the first session is mandatory.

If you are looking to learn to row and the class times do not work with your schedule or classes are out of season, you can also learn through private lessons.

We look forward to working with you and seeing you out on the water!

2024 Learn to Row sessions

Dallas Rowing Club will offer two Learn to Row (LTR) sessions during 2024:

Session 1 - Time: 6 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Dates: May 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17

Session 2 - Time: 6 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Dates: June 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28

Session 3 - Time: 6 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Dates: July 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17

Learn to Row is also offered, by request, through private lessons for those who cannot attend published sessions.

But if you’re ready to begin enrollment, scroll down this page to complete "Checklist for your first class.”


In this course, you’ll learn…

  • All about the sport of rowing.

    We'll teach you the language of rowing, get hands on with the equipment, and ensure everyone is comfortable before getting in the boat.

  • The basics of the rowing stroke.

    You'll practice on the rowing machine (erg) and in a training boat (sculling shell).

  • How to stay safe on the water.

    We'll teach you to maneuver through obstacles, and how to reenter the boat should you end up in the water.

Testimonials

  • “I grew up on a rowing machine and thought I loved it. After day one of the Learn to Row class I knew I was going to be obsessed! The past year rowing has continued to help my mental health by making me slow down, breathe and focus on the task at hand.”

    Joel

  • “Adventuring into Rowing at this stage of life, I had some apprehensions about my ability to adapt, learn and "perform". Yet, the combination of instructor's made it an easy transition as they took a personal interest and connected with me and where I was.”

    Dave

  • “DRC helped me with my fear of being in the open water and I can’t thank them enough. I am super grateful I was able to work with Cathy and Cherie because they gave back great feedback and had so much patience.”

    Cindy

  • “The Dallas Rowing Club Learn to Row class was amazing! I have never been athletic but I really wanted to try something more physical this year. Not only did I learn how to properly row, but I learned how to use my body in the correct way to become stronger and more in control of my movements.”

    Jill

Group Learn to Row Classes

Available in the summer months only.

You’ll learn how to row with 6-10 other people in our structured class program. The first session is mandatory, and if you miss it, you won’t be able to continue unless you do a private lesson before the next class at your expense.

  • Class 1: Safety Protocols + Orientation

  • Class 2: Stroke Sequence

  • Class 3: Boat Maneuverability + Flip Clinic

  • Class 4: Putting it all together

  • Class 5: Traffic Pattern

  • Class 6: Steering

Price: $150 for all 6 classes

Private Learn to Row Lessons

Available, weather permitting, upon request.

Enjoy one-on-one time with a coach in our private learn to row lessons. Each session lasts an hour long, and you can sign up for as many as you like until you feel confident in a boat.

Curious about who will be teaching you? Meet our coaches!

Price: $75 per 1 hour lesson

Safety on the water

DRC values safety. Our coaches teach, practice and enforce necessary safety rules. Members/guests are responsible for their seat in the boat, along with being aware of what is going on around them on the water and in the boathouse.

We adhere to US Rowing safety guidelines to ensure rowers are safe. Additionally, DRC provides stern and bow lights for early morning or late evening rows.

Checklist before your first class

  • Complete the DRC Waiver

    This shouldn’t take you more than five minutes. You can find the form here.

  • Complete a Swim Test

    Download the Swim Certification Form, and bring it to a pool or YMCA where a lifeguard can perform a swim assessment. Then, email your completed form to drclearntorow@gmail.com NOTE: This form should be emailed at least one week prior to the first class.

    We also accept Padi/Lifeguard certificates.

  • Register for class

    Each summer, we offer group learn to row classes. REGISTER HERE.

    To request a private learn to row lesson (offered year-round), click here.

Learn more about our club.