FAQ
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Q: I'm a bit older than my co-workers, is there an age limit for rowing? I don't feel very strong, do I have to be fit before I start rowing?
A: Of course you are not too old to row! We don't have an age limit, but if you are over 90, we don't recommend it. As far as strength and conditioning prior to rowing, you don't have to be fit to row, rowing makes you fit! Just be ready and willing to have fun. This isn't about competition and winning... the emphasis is on getting together with friends after work for fun and fitness.

Q: I've never rowed before, is it difficult?
A: No, it is not difficult; anyone can be taught how to row. If you can ride a bike, you can row.

Q: I know how to kayak/canoe, will that help me?
A: Rowing is a unique sport, so knowing how to kayak or canoe will not necessarily help. Kayaking will give you an understanding of water safety and balance but won't help much with regards to actual rowing technique and the importance of working with everyone else in the boat...teamwork.

Q: Where are you located?
A: We are locate at 525 Commissioners Street at the bottom of Carlaw Avenue.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: The cost for the spring session is 185 (+GST). This is our standard rate for all learning programs.

Q: What should I wear?
A: As with any sport, it is best to layer your clothing. Bring extra socks!! Generally, shorts, track pants, T-shirt and a sweat shirt.will be adequate, but it is a good idea to bring a wind-breaker as it will be cool in the evenings, especially at the beginning of the league.

Q: The boats look awfully skinny, won't they tip over easily?
A: No. Surprising as it may seem, it is near impossible to tip an eight-person boat (I've never seen it happen). Each eight has oars (four on each side) which act a outriggers to prevent it from tipping.

Q: Do I need to know how to swim?
A: Yes. Although boats don't tip over, it is imperative, as with any water sport you be able to swim. Our pre-requisite is that you be able to swim at least 200m.

Q: I don't have a very strong upper body, will I be able to keep up?
A: YES! Rowing uses the strongest muscles in your body..your legs. Rowing appears to require a lot of upper body strength, but in reality rowing is a total-body workout!

Q: How many people make up a company team? Why?
A: Fourteen people constitutes a full team. Not everyone can make it every time so having extra team members is important to boat an eight on any given night.

Q: I am 5'8" and weigh 150 lbs., am I too big to be a coxie?
A: No. Traditionally coxies are smaller and lighter for racing, but for our league the size of the coxie is not important. If our big, fat 6'3", 220lbs head coach can sit in a coxie seat, so can you! All our boats have been modified to seat adult-sized coxies. The coxie is the most important person in the crewit's also the most fun place to be. You get to yell at everyone and lead your crew to victory.

Q: What do I do if it's raining?
A: As a rule of thumb, we row rain or shine. There will be times however when rowing will be cancelled for that evening due to lightning or high winds. Some of you will be travelling a fair distance, so to prevent a wasted trip, a weather line will be active starting in mid-April. When in doubt, call! If by chance the message has not been updated, assume that we ARE rowing.

Q: What is the weather line phone number?
A: TBA.

Q: What happens if rowing is cancelled due to bad weather?
A: Make-ups will be made through "double rows" which are back to back 90 minute rows. Anything that cannot be made up through double rows will be made up at the end of the session.

Q: What happens if I'm late?
A: If you're late, we will get you on the water anyway. However, because rowing is a team sport, we try to encourage people to arrive on time. We understand that situations may arise beyond your control, so show up anyway because you will likely still have the opportunity to row (and we will probably need you for a crew anyway).

Q: I already know how to row, what's available for me?
A: There is an experienced/competitive league for those who have previous rowing experience. If you do not have enough people for a full competitive team, contact us and we will be able to find/create a crew for you. Recreational rowing several times each week may also be an option. Call (416) 887-5837 or e-mail headcoach@baysiderowing.com for more information.

 

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