First sessions in a boat, with a coach
Ready when: The stroke on land (b1) and Swimming and water confidence (b2) done.
What the coach teaches
Carrying and racking a boat on called commands; getting in and out; turning, backing, steering, stopping and docking; sculling basics: grip, balance, posture and what the blade does in the water; the stroke built up step by step (legs, then body, then arms); righting a swamped or overturned boat and climbing back in.
At home, safe only
The stroke on land (b1) and Swimming and water confidence (b2).
Ask the club
The age rules, the swim test, the life jacket and the safety boat policy.
What you can see from the side
The child stays balanced and keeps the hands moving.
Self-check what the coach confirms
The child brings the boat in to the dock safely.
Stop and get a coach when
The boat is unsteady or the child is cold or frightened.
Basic is done when the coach confirms the child can scull and handle a boat.
awiseathlete.com/sports/rowing/rowing-b3