Tell me about rowing

[superpushymum]

Is anybody's child doing it? Do they enjoy it? What is the best age to start? All opinions are welcome!

I used to row.
I started coxing at the age of about 12 and took up rowing at about 14.
I loved it and continued until I graduated from University and moved to an area with no rowing.
I think starting in your early to mid teens is a good time.

One of my DDs does coxing,not quite the same thing!

Contact www.britishrowing.org and see what they say

Early to mid teens, definitely - you need a fairly mature shape IYSWIM. Great sport though - ultimate team sports IMHO.

Dn started at 12. She loves it and wins all kinds of medals.

Thank you for your replies! DS is 10 (11in few months) and our local rowing club accepts kids over 11 years old.

Can you row in winter? Or is it better to wait till summer?

Mine does it in winter. Weirdly loves the cold crisp early mornings on the river.

Yes you can row in winter (merino wool thin skins or thermals recommended, and pogies). If starting at age 11 they should have a gradual introduction, and it is good if they learn about how toblook after boats. They should have a capsize drill (preferably in a swimming pool, or in summer) before going on the canal/river in a rowing boat. They have to use 2 oars until they are a bit older, then they can start to sweep, unless in a single obviously. Check with your local rowing club.

Can't take boats out in thick fog, or when the waterways are frozen where we are.

Our friends DD rows - she started when she was 13/14. It takes up a lot of time - 2-3 times a week she is down at the river. But she loves it and does really well.

If you wait until summer, there will be a lot of regattas and heads going on, coaches and boats and helpers going off here and there, and your dc will not get as much attention. Not to mention a lot more other craft on the water, and fishermen to contend with. Best to build up awareness in winter when it is quieter.

11 seems quite young to start, but if she's properly taught and starts with two blades she'll be fine.
Rowing goes on all year unless the weather prevents it.
When the rivers are too high and fast flowing or there is thick fog it stops. Rain, snow etc are no problem and it continues as normal.
(I used to come out of the boat looking like a snowman on snowy days as I barely moved when coxing.)