Do I need to know how to swim to Row?

Question

I want to join the local Rowing Club but I can't swim. If I am in a row boat do I really need to know how to swim since I am not physically in the water? Will the rowing club kick me out of their club if they find out that I can't swim?

Answer 1

Yes, you do need to know how to swim. Rowing is NOT a totally safe sport.

Over the years many rowers have drowned after falling into the water (capsizing) and, although you will definitely fall in at some point if you take up rowing, being able to swim will probably prevent you from dying. You also cannot think that a partner will be able to save you, you will not always be out with other people (e.g. if you're in a single sculling boat) and if your "rowing partner" has to try and save you it will put them in danger.

Examples of recent accidents include that of a young rower from Reading, UK (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/berks... and a couple of weeks ago a sculler from Plymouth, UK drowned (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon...

The rowing accident database I link to in my sources is incomplete but even so, it lists 91 deaths.

I'm a British Junior rower and to row at my club you first have to pass a 200m swim test (in clothing) and a capsize drill (which is capsizing your boat on purpose and swimming to the side of the river/pool).

So what I'm saying is that if you do want to start rowing, which you should, you will have to learn to swim as you will fall into the water many times (I've fallen in 5 times).

Rowing is an amazing sport but it would be stupid to do it unsafely. Whatever you do, be honest with your local club about your lack of swimming ability, I'm sure that they will be happy to help you.

If you want any more information, fell free to contact me, I've also linked to the US, UK, and World Governing bodies in my sources.

Answer 2

I would suggest learning because your boat might turn over.

Answer 3

yes it would help as you are in the ocean and spending time in the water.

Answer 4

The boats they use are very tipsy. You WILL spend time in the water. It would be an excellent idea to have at least minimal swimming skills and of course wear a personal flotation device.