Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The class schedule is updated on our calendar. The calendar shows all classes, programs, events and work days.
No membership is required for the Learn to Row class. A membership is required for the Masters Rowing Program and to use the IRC boats.
Learn to Row classes begin in April and continue through October. This is when the weather is the best! The complete calendar is available on our website. Adults begin with a Learn-To-Row class which is a six hour introduction to rowing. All classes require a minimum number of participants. After Learn to Row, adults will have the skills necessary for the Adult Rowing Program.
The Junior Program and Masters Program are year round programs. Those interested in rowing in one of our programs should contact info@indyrowing.org, for more information.
IRC has worked to offer programs for rowers of all levels! Adults are encouraged to keep rowing after taking their Learn-To-Row class by joining the Technical Rowing Program, offering opportunities to continue learning both sweep rowing and sculling. Many people are surprised by how long it takes to become comfortable in the boats. Rowers may opt to continue rowing recreationally for many years as part of the Technical Rowing Program or may opt to start competitive rowing as part of the Masters Sweep Program and/or the Masters Sculling Program. Rowing is truly a life-long sport!
The Learn to Row classes focus on technique rather than fitness. Adults of all levels of physical ability have completed this course. Contrary to popular belief, rowing uses the legs more than the upper body although it does provide an exceptional low-impact total body workout. In the more advanced programs, rowing provides an excellent cardiovascular workout.
We recommend showing up in comfortable work out clothes, but nothing too baggy such as sweatshirts, sweatpants, or loose cotton shirts. Appropriate gear includes running tanks, shirts, shorts, hiking capris/pants, yoga pants, socks and athletic shoes. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a bottle of water is recommended. You may want to pack a change of clothes as well. There are bathrooms and a water fountain at the boathouse.
It is recommended that each rower knows how to swim, but not necessary. All of our members must pass a swim test. If they pass, we keep it on file for 4 years and rowers do not have to wear a life jacket in the boat. If they do not pass the swim test, they can still row, but will have to wear a life jacket in the boat. Swim test forms can be found on our Policies and Forms page. Take the form to any pool staffed by a lifeguard (The Riviera Club, YMCA, JCC, Monon Center, etc) and complete the test.
Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of your first class. This will allow you time to put your stuff away and turn in any forms or payment prior to the class beginning.
The IRC Boathouse is located in Eagle Creek Park, on Eagle Beach Drive. Enter through the 56th St. entrance, make your first left (onto Eagle Beach Drive), and then your first right onto the gravel driveway. If entering through the 71st St. entrance, follow the road until you are just about out of the park. The last right will be Eagle Beach Drive. Please see our Location page for a map and contact information.
There is a fee for entering the park, rowers and parents are not exempt. The park fee will be collected even if you are just coming to pick up your child from practice. The park fees are listed here and they offer seasonal passes, which can be purchased here or at either the 56th St. or 71st St. entrances, or the Eagle Creek Park Office (7840 W. 56th St.).
Check the calendar and your email for information. If the class/practice is cancelled, you will be contacted by the instructor. We are always able to cross train and teach rowing on the indoor rowing machines so very rarely cancel classes/practices.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ROWING AND SCULLING?
USRowing (national governing body of the sport of rowing) offers some great articles for those new to rowing. Check them out!