Discover Rowing

The Oak Ridge Rowing Association is excited to offer a several ways for you to get involved with a great sport, past time and one of the worlds best exercises this year in Oak Ridge.  Rowing has often been equated to cross-country skiing as the best all around total body exercise, working the aerobic system, legs, back/abs, as well as the upper body muscles.  Rowing is also a non-impact sport which is good for your knees and other joints so you get the benefit of the exercise without the jarring on your body.

Rowing is also known as the “Ultimate Team Sport”  Rowing is often completed in team boats but can also be experienced in smaller single and double person boats.  Rowing is done in two different boat types and both will be experienced in learn to row classes. Bring a friend and learn to row for better health and great fellowship. The Oak Ridge Rowing Association wants to introduce you to the world of recreational rowing.This class is designed for people with no experience, but is also a good refresher for someone who has taken lessons and wants to get back into it. All that is needed just a willingness to learn an activity that can be enjoyed a lifetime. Classes are offered for sweep and sculling lessons. If you wish to become a competitive rower this would be your first step.

Sweep Rowing- Boats are 8, 4 or 2 person boats with each person using one long oar to help move the boat through the water.  A coxswain is normally used in these boats to help steer and coordinate the crew.
Sculling- Boats are 4, 2, or 1 person boats with each rower using two oars and no coxswain is used.  Rowers not only pry the boat along with their oars but also steer with added pressure on one side or the other to keep the boat on course.  

Equipment-Boats range from the 58 foot long 8 person racing shell to the smaller 21 foot recreational single.  Boats are called ‘shells’ and are very lightweight for their length.  Oars are made of fiberglass or carbon fiber and are also very light for the size.

What you need- You will just be asked to come with a willing attitude to try something new with other like minded people.  All equipment is supplied in the class so all you need is to dress appropriately for athletic activity.  It is best to avoid loose fitting sweat pants and long shorts, so dress with layers depending on the weather conditions.  Wear comfortable athletic shoes and bring an extra layer for after your time on the water.  A hat, sunscreen, and water is also good to bring along.

The class size is held to a maximum of 24 students and a minimum of 4. After completing the lessons, participants will then have the option of joining the Oak Ridge Rowing Association and participating on a regular basis. All classes are held at the Oak Ridge Boathouse (697 Melton Lake Drive) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee

For questions do not hesitate to call the ORRA office at 865-482-6538

After LTR, the next step is to become a member of ORRA and join the Novice Team. The team offers year-round development and training, access to the club's fleet of boats and rowing machines, a trailer for boat transport to regattas, and more.

LTR graduates receive a discount off their first year's membership. In addition to fun and fitness, many on the team compete in regional regattas which offer an exciting competitive outlet for your training. The first regattas that the Novice Team attends are in October, and are open to all team members.

Graduates of LTR form the Novice Masters Team, a combination of men and women committed to developing their rowing abilities. Beyond LTR, additional dues are needed to cover the cost membership, coaching, and entry fees for those who sign up for races.

Go to Masters Program Page to see descriptions of the various ORRA teams.