Learn to Row at Trent Rowing Club
We welcome anyone who would to try rowing aged 10+
Our mission is to drive excellence in rowing by providing a structured, inclusive and high-performance environment for athletes of all ages. We are dedicated to developing competitive rowers through focused training, technical skill-building and a strong team ethos.
Learn to Row at Trent Rowing Club
Rooted in a tradition of discipline, teamwork and a shared passion for rowing, Trent is more than just a place to row. Unlike purely recreational clubs, we focus on structured training and competitive performance.
Our Learn to Row programme is open to everyone aged 10 and above who can swim 50 metres unaided, no prior rowing experience required!
Courses typically take place on Sunday mornings from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, lasting four weeks, with the option to extend your trial before deciding on full membership.
All sessions are led by experienced coaches, supported by friendly Trent members who are always happy to help.
Everyone is welcome — come give rowing a try!
Ania joined Trent Rowing Club at the age of 12, she’s now the Junior Squad representative and has achieved major successes at regattas across the UK
If you have any questions about the Junior Learn to Row programme, feel free to reach out to Ania—she's got all the insider knowledge!
What’s it like at Trent Rowing Club?
When you join us, you’ll find:
Top-class rowing equipment
Friendly, experienced coaches and instructors
A welcoming community atmosphere
Whether you're dreaming of racing at the National Championships, entering local regattas, or just want to learn a new sport, we can support you on your rowing journey.
How the Learn to Row Scheme Works
We understand that diving straight into full club membership can feel like a big step. That’s why we offer a Learn to Row scheme, giving you the chance to experience rowing before committing.
Duration: Up to 2 months
Cost: £40 per month, Sunday 10.30am - 12.30pm
Flexibility: Extend your trial period before deciding on full membership
What You’ll Be Doing
Coaching in single or crew boats
Use of club equipment and training facilities
Access to social events and regattas as a spectator
There’s no pressure to commit right away—if you’re enjoying your time after the first month, you can continue for a second month or choose to join the Club as a full member. You’re also free to stop at any time, no questions asked.
Getting Started is Easy
Contact the Club - To arrange a visit
Visit the Club – We’ll give you a Trial Participant Registration Form.
Fill it out – Complete the form and bring it with your £40 payment to one of our coaches.
Schedule your first session – You’ll receive a receipt and we’ll file your details, including emergency contact info.
Under 18? You'll need a signed Parental Consent Form as well.
If anything’s unclear, just ask a coach.
We’re here to help.
Typical Training Schedules
Summer training
Our training plan typically combines on-water sessions, erg workouts, strength training and recovery strategies to build endurance, power and technique. Training in single, double and quad boats.
Winter Training
Building a strong foundation in the off-season with focused erg workouts, strength training, mobility and endurance, this plan helps rowers improve fitness, refine technique and prevent injury.
FAQs
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No previous experience is required. Our Learn-to-Row programme is designed for complete novices, and our coaches will guide you through the basics step by step.
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Most clubs, including ours, offer programmes for both juniors (10-18) and adults. We also have dedicated sessions for seniors (19–26) and masters (27+).
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Yes, for safety reasons, a basic ability to swim is required for water sessions. We may ask you to confirm this when you sign up. Juniors should be able to swim at least 50 metres while wearing light clothing. This is a standard safety requirement for all rowing clubs in the UK.
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Wear comfortable, close-fitting sportswear—nothing too baggy, as it can get caught in the equipment. Trainers or running shoes are ideal for land training. For water sessions, bring layers and a waterproof top if the weather is cooler. For more information, visit the British Rowing 'What to Wear' page by clicking here. Here, you will find details on suitable rowing clothing, as well as advice on recommendations and requirements for hot weather and cold weather rowing.
https://www.britishrowing.org/knowledge/rower-development/british-rowing-technique/what-to-wear/
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Learn-to-Row sessions typically run once or twice a week. As you progress you'll have the option to join more sessions. For all athletes, the number of sessions depends on ability, and for junior athletes, it also depends on age. Training sessions can start at twice per week, upto six sessions per week.
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Not at all. Rowing is a great way to build fitness gradually. Our Learn-to-Row programme is designed to suit all fitness levels and will help you improve over time.
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All necessary equipment is provided, including boats, oars (blades), lifejackets (if needed), and indoor training gear like ergs and weights.
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Yes, limited parking is available on-site for members during session times.
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Our mission is to drive excellence in rowing by providing a structured, inclusive, and high-performance environment for athletes of all ages. We are dedicated to developing competitive rowers, if after learning to row you don’t wish to competitively compete, we can support you in finding the right club.
Learn to Row Top Tips!
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Leon
Don’t be nervous!
I’d never rowed before and you are given all the support before they let you out alone
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Lottie
Keep Going!
I’d tried rowing when I was younger, after coming back to it, the first river session was all I needed to love it all over again
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Tom
Have a change of clothes!
I’ve never fallen in, but sometimes you get soaked from the splashes. The training and being out on the river is so much fun
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Jim, Masters C
I started rowing after my daughter joined the club on learn to row. It's obviously a physical sport, but I love the technical challenge that's involved too. It provides a really good stress buster from work and the daily grind.
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David
Accept blisters!
You will definitely get blisters when you row, it’s a sign of your hard work
Ready to give rowing a go?
We’d love to see you at the Club and help you take your first strokes. Drop us an email to find out more or arrange a visit—we’re looking forward to meeting you!