Question 1

What do I wear?

Accepted Answer

Athletic, form-fitting clothing (to avoid catching on equipment) no pockets in jackets unless they zip shut. Thick socks.

Question 2

Are there life jackets available?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Question 3

I can only make part of the session, can I still attend?

Accepted Answer

Please plan to attend the full session for continuity of learning and teamwork. You’ll be rowing with a crew, so full participation — and especially arriving on time — really helps the whole boat. Breaks are built in, and we’ll keep the vibe fun and supportive the whole way.

Question 4

What is rowing?

Accepted Answer

A water sport where people sit in long, narrow boats and move them using oars that pivot in oarlocks. The motion uses the whole body — legs, core, and arms — in a smooth, coordinated rhythm. It’s low-impact, technical, and offers a great combination of fitness, teamwork, and being out in nature.

Question 5

Do I need prior experience?

Accepted Answer

Nope! This is designed specifically for beginners. We start from the basics: boat handling, safety, technique, and building confidence on the water. It is supported by veteran rowers who will row alongside you.

Question 6

Do I need to be fit before I start?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Rowing is naturally scalable. You’ll learn at a pace that suits you, and our coaches love working with people who are new to the sport. The 4 hour time slot is spaced with regular breaks.

Question 7

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Your safety is our priority. If water or wind conditions are unsafe, we will reschedule. It is important, therefore, that you fill in your contact information correctly so we can reach you in the unlikely event that we have to reschedule.

Question 8

Can I participate if I’m nervous about water?

Accepted Answer

A little nervousness is completely normal! Boats are stable for beginners, and coaches stay close. You’ll never be pushed beyond your comfort level.

Question 9

If I have a physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disability, can I learn to row?

Accepted Answer

Possibly — we believe rowing should be accessible, and we offer adaptations when we safely can. Because every person’s needs are unique, we handle this conversation individually.
Please contact our Managing Director at director@gorgerowing.ca

Question 10

What if I fall in?

Accepted Answer

It happens rarely, but yes — you should be comfortable in the water. Coaches explain safety protocols thoroughly, and most participants never flip a boat. If they do go over, the boats are buoyant, and participants hang on to the boat until they are assisted by a safety boat close by and recovered.

Question 11

What if I absolutely love rowing? What’s next?

Accepted Answer

After this one-day experience, you will be prepared to enroll in a structured Learn to Course and they start in the Spring and run throughout the Summer. We’re all about building community through rowing — and we love welcoming new people into our crew.

Question 12

What’s the difference between rowing and paddling?

Accepted Answer

Rowing: face backward, use oars attached to the boat, power comes from legs on a sliding seat.
Paddling: face forward, use a handheld paddle, power comes from arms/torso.
Different motions, totally different feel.

Gift a Glide: Rowing Experience

Overview

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Frequently asked questions

Organized by

Gorge Narrows Rowing Club

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