Frequently Asked Questions about the RC2
Juniors Program
| Can I join if I have never rowed before? |
Yes, most of our Masters never rowed before joining the club. The Masters
Program regularly offers Learn To Row classes. This class teaches the
fundamentals of rowing, and skill is further refined at practices with
on-the-water drills and exercises.
| What time do the Masters practice? |
See the Masters page for the Open Boathouse times.
| I don't have much upper body strength, can I still row? |
Yes, you can. Rowing is a 'push' sport, and the power of rowing comes from the legs. Upper body strength is important, too, and rowing will help build your upper body.
| I have a busy schedule and won't be able to attend regularly. Is that okay? |
Rowing regularly is the best way to improve your fitness and achieve
your personal goals (such as weight loss, improving your strength, or
increasing your rowing skill level). However, we understand that adults
have busy schedules and many commitments. Our program is flexible enough
to handle your schedule. We ask that rowers contact the Masters Director
via the Master's Yahoo Group email before practice so boat seatings
can be planned.
| What clothing or equipment do I need? |
You need fitted athletic clothing, running shoes, and a water bottle. All other equipment such as
rowing shells, oars and ergometers (rowing machines) are supplied by the club.
| Do I have to wear spandex shorts? |
Yes, spandex shorts are required. Baggy shorts can get caught in the wheels under the boat's sliding seat, causing the rower's slide to aburptly stop. This could cause an injury. Tight fitting shorts, such as spandex, are required to prevent the shorts getting caught. Long shirts can also get caught in the wheels, so shirts must be tucked in or short enough not to get caught.
| Will rowing hurt my knees? |
Rowing is a non-impact sport, and is generally easy on the joints. Also, there is no twisting or torqueing of the knee, so most people with knee injuries find that they can row. If you have problem knees, we recommend that you consult your doctor before starting.
| Will rowing help me with weight loss? |
Rowing is a total body workout and an aerobic workout. At high levels of activity, rowing can burn as many or more calories than running without the impact to the joints. Rowing, combined with a sensible eating plan, can help with weight loss and body toning. Your weight loss results will depend on the intensity and regularity of your workouts and on your eating plan.
| How many Masters are in the program, and what is the range of experience? |
There are currently about 25 Adult rowers in the program. Some of our Masters rowed in college, but most learned to row as adults. Many of our rowers are graduates of our Learn To Row classes.
| What does it cost to join? |
See the Membership Page for a breakdown of the cost of membership.
| Do the Masters compete in regattas? |
Yes, the Masters compete in our own Hobb's Island Regatta (here in Huntsville), and travel to various races across the Southeast. The Master's typically travel to two or three regattas in the fall and in the spring in Oak Ridge, Chattanooga, and Knoxville, Tennessee.
If you're new to the sport, you should take a Learn To Row Class. Contact the Masters Director to sign up for the next class. If you have experience rowing, you can probably start right away! Contact the Masters Director for information on attending practices.
|
