Curious about rowing? The Minnesota Boat Club’s Learn to Row program is designed to introduce new participants to one of the most rewarding team sports on the water. Whether you are looking for a new athletic challenge, a connection to the river, or a welcoming community, this program offers a safe and supportive place to begin.

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Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of rowing through guided instruction from experienced coaches and club leaders. Sessions typically cover basic rowing technique, boat handling, safety procedures, and the rhythm and teamwork that make rowing unique. No prior experience is required.

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Our goal is simple: to make rowing approachable, enjoyable, and accessible for adults who want to learn the sport the right way. By the end of the program, participants will leave with a solid foundation, greater confidence on the water, and a clearer sense of how they can continue rowing with the Club.

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What participants can expect:

• Introductory instruction in rowing fundamentals

• Emphasis on safety, technique, and teamwork

• Hands-on experience with equipment and on-water practice

• A welcoming environment for beginners

• A pathway to continued involvement with the Minnesota Boat Club community

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who it's for:

Learn to Row is intended for beginners. Whether you are completely new to rowing or returning after many years away, this program is built to help you get started with confidence.

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why minnesota boat club:

​Founded in 1870, the Minnesota Boat Club is one of the region’s most historic rowing institutions, with a longstanding commitment to community, stewardship of the river, and the development of rowers at every stage. The Club has maintained Learn to Row as one of its core entry points for bringing new people into the sport.

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PARTICIPANT Fee: $250
 

REQUIREMENTS: 

• Must be able to swim and/or tread water for at least 15 minutes.

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2026 Schedule:

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Session 1: June 1 - June 3

Session 2: June 8 - June 10

Session 3: June 15 - June 17

Session 4: June 22 - June 24

Session 5: June 29 - July 1

Session 6: July 6 - July 8

Session 7: July 13 - July 15

Session 8: July 20 - July 22

Session 9: July 27 - July 29

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Each session will follow the same structure:

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Day 1 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Boathouse tour, equipment review, introduction to the rowing stroke.

Day 2 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Further development of proper rowing technique and introduction to on-the-water rowing in the training barge. 

Day 3 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Stroke review and on-the-water rowing in the training barge

Day 4 (rotating Saturday mornings) 9:00 am - 11:00 pm: Club and Racing team exploration. Meet club members and coaches, introduction to eight-crew rowing shells (dependent on athlete numbers). These sessions can be attended when they best fit your schedule. Ask your coach about scheduling.

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Ready to sign up? Follow this link to the sign-up page. There, you can choose your session, secure your place, and make your payments. Once completed, you will receive an email confirming your purchase and be connected to our learn-to-row coordinators for any further questions. 

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Need questions answered now? Use this link to submit a question or comment to our learn-to-row team. You can also send an email to LTR@minnesotaboatclub.org.

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