Adult Learn to Row (6/14/25 - 11am Session)

Overview: A two-hour session, designed to give a first taste of the sport, comprised of 45 minutes on land and 75 minutes on the water.Location: Our boathouse on the Des Moines River, next door to the Birdland Marina.

Format: You’ll first learn the basics of the stroke on the erg (rowing machine), rowing terms, parts of the boat, and how to get in the boat and grip the oar. (You may be doing this just prior to an on-water session including a mixture of first-timers and novices (see below). Next, you’ll go out in an eight-person boat in a mixture of new learners and experienced rowers. You’ll apply the same basics of the stroke you learned on the erg and become familiar with commands from the coxswain.

Limitations: must be 18 years or older and able to swim 200 yards without rest.

What to Bring: Regardless of the weather, dress in layers. If you wear shorts or tights they should be form-fitting. Baggy pants may get caught in the tracks on which your seat rolls back and forth. Don’t forget your socks! Our boats are rigged with shoes that you will use while rowing so you will want a pair of socks.

In Case of Inclement Weather: the instructor will notify of a cancellation via text. Rain date for this event is June 21.

Waiver: all participants will be required to sign our waiver. (We hope to distribute this electronically ahead of the event.)

Also check out other Sports events in Des Moines.