What is rowing?

Rowing is a full-body, low-impact sport. We practice on the Willamette River when conditions allow, and during winter months we train in the warehouse on ergs (rowing machines).

Rowing is a team sport, and we practice in boats that accomodate anywhere from one to nine people.

Many people think rowing relies on strong arms, but about 80% of the rowing stroke actually comes from leg power. Just as important as leg power is core strength, as rowers keep the boat stable by sitting up tall and leaning back at the end of each stroke. Arm strength makes up only a small portion of the stroke. The only sport that uses more muscle groups than rowing is swimming!

What is coxing?

A coxswain (or cox) is the strategist, motivator, and voice of the boat. While coxswains are usually smaller athletes because the cox seat doesn’t have much room, they play a big role in the boat. They communicate via microphone to give instructions and get all the rowers in sync. They have control of the rudder and steering of the boat. 

Most importantly, a coxswain is a leader both inside and outside of the boat. Our coxswains will be given all the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, both at our boathouse and in their future careers. The coxswain is someone with leadership skills—or someone looking to develop their leadership skills!

What are practices like?

Rowers wake up early! Practices are in the early mornings when the water is calm and river traffic is low. We row on the Willamette River, and our rows span anywhere from Oregon City to the Sellwood Bridge in Portland. Classes consist of both sweeping (rowing with one oar) and sculling (two oars) single and team boats. When the weather or river conditions prove too risky for outdoor practice, teams will train on Concept2 ergs (rowing machines) and free weights in the LOCR warehouse.

Where do we practice?

Classes are held at the Charlie Brown Water Sport Center boathouse at 350 Foothills Road, Lake Oswego, OR 97034.

When weather conditions prohibit us from being on the water (and during winter training, from around November until March) classes will move inside to our row studio at the clubhouse at 255 Foothills Road, Lake Oswego, OR 97034.

What do I need to do before my first practice?

An active US Rowing membership, yearly signed participation waiver, float test*, and some basic medical information are required prior to the first day of class. You’ll be prompted to fill out these forms upon registration. No personal equipment required!

*Talk to your coach about float test requirements. Team float tests are often conducted early in the season.

What should I wear to practice?

Rowing is a full body workout, so make sure to wear clothes that you can move around in. Be aware of weather conditions, too—some days you might want lots of layers and a warm hat, while others you might want to bring sunscreen and sunglasses. We recommend not wearing baggy clothing, as loose shorts (like basketball shorts) will get caught in the boat wheel tracks and loose shirts or jackets with open front pockets (like a hoodie) can catch the oars. Spandex shorts and other form-fitting clothing is ideal. Hi-vis clothing is also great for being visible on the water.

You’ll generally row in just your socks (the boats have built-in shoes), but you can bring slides or other waterproof shoes to wear on the dock and remove once you’re in the boat. You might want to bring an extra pair of socks or other clothes too if you’re heading somewhere right after practice—it is a water sport, after all!

What are all these weird rowing terms?

What is “weigh enough,” or “check it down”? Why does the cox say “sit ready at the catch”? And what does it mean to “catch a crab”? Rowing terminology can be confusing and tricky at first, but you’ll learn soon enough from coaches and more experienced rowers. If you want to brush up on the terminology on your own, check out USRowing’s list of terms.

I identify as non-binary, is there a place for me to row?

All are welcome! Please don't let gendered categories prevent you from participating in this sport. For most regattas, USRowing requires rowers to choose either "male" or "female" for competition purposes. You may choose a category that best fits your erg (rowing machine) times and your fitness level compared to your teammates. 

Depending on our team size, we often row in mixed boats anyways! You are always welcome to share your concerns with us if you do not feel comfortable or supported. Our purpose is to create lifelong rowers.

Anything else I need to know?

A minimum two-hour volunteer commitment to the club (or $50 donation) is required per class. Regatta fees are not included in membership dues and will be billed separately.

What’s so great about rowing?

Why get up before the sun, sometimes in the cold and rain, to work out on the river?

Rowing is a team sport, where you work together with up to eight other rowers to glide in perfect rhythm across the water. It’s also an individual sport, where each stroke you take is an exercise in mental and physical strength and discipline.

Rowing combines the collaboration and accomplishment of team sports with the beautiful PNW outdoors—stunning sunrises, abundant wildlife, and views of the city of bridges and roses.