National Learn to Row Day 2026
By Sue HoldernessNational Learn to Row Day is June 6th, 2026. Started in 2002, this annual nationwide event is hosted by USRowing and Concept2 to help grow the sport of rowing and introduce new athletes to the water. Clubs across the country open their boathouse doors to their communities to educate and inspire athletes of all ages and experience levels to give rowing a try.
While every club’s Learn to Row Day may look a little different, most programs offer an introduction to rowing equipment, technique, safety, and the opportunity to get out on the water. It’s a chance to experience what makes rowing such a unique sport and community. Participating clubs are also entered to win prizes from USRowing and Concept2, including a Concept2 erg, a 2026 USRowing organizational membership, and eight Concept2 sweep oars.
Tips for Beginners
Rowing is one of the best ways to get outdoors, get a full-body workout, and be part of a team. Around 86% of your muscles are engaged during the rowing stroke, making it both physically challenging and incredibly rewarding. That said, rowing is harder than it looks. When you first get into a boat, it may feel “tippy,” and the rowing motion can feel unnatural.
One of the biggest things to remember is that the boat itself is not unstable, we are. When a boat is set properly with the oars flat on the water, it naturally will stay balanced. Sudden movements and uneven body weight are usually what make the boat feel unstable.Try to keep your hands level, stay relaxed, and keep your body weight centered in the boat. Most beginner programs start athletes in an 8+, which is the largest and most stable boat. If you are rowing with others, focus on staying loose and following the rhythm of the rower in front of you.
Another common misconception is that rowing is mostly upper body. In reality, the legs are the primary source of power in the stroke. Think about pushing long and strong with the legs first, then swinging through the body, and finally finishing with the arms.
Most importantly, have fun! Rowing is a difficult sport, and nobody is perfect on day one. If you get outside, learn something new, and enjoy the experience, that is already a success.
What to Bring
Like any sport, there are a few essentials you should bring with you to your first practice:
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Hat or visor
- Athletic sunglasses
- Tight-fitting athletic clothing
The Crew Stop Hats are made specifically for rowing as they are lightweight, quick dry, and have reflective accents. One rowing-specific tip is to bring an extra sock to place over your water bottle. Rowing shells are made of lightweight carbon fiber, and water bottles can slide around and scratch the inside of the boat. A sock helps protect the shell while you row. Polarized or sport sunglasses are also helpful because the sun reflecting off the water can be intense during long practices.
One thing many beginners quickly notice is that rowing can be tough on your hands. The repetitive motion of the rowing stroke combined with friction from the oar handle can cause blisters, ripped skin, and soreness, especially during longer practices or high-volume weeks. Rowing gloves can help reduce blisters, improve grip, and make practices more comfortable so you can focus on learning the sport rather than worrying about painful hands. At The Crew Stop, we make gloves designed specifically for both sweep rowing and sculling.
For beginners learning the terminology:
- Sweep rowing means each rower uses one oar. Sweep boats include the 2-, 4-, 4+, and 8+.
- Sculling means each rower uses two oars. Sculling boats include the 1x, 2x, and 4x.
The first number represents the number of rowers in the boat. The second sign indicates if the boat is a sweep boat (- or +) or a sculling boat (x). The + indicates there is a coxswain in the boat and the - indicates a coxless boat.
Our sculling gloves also include additional grip to help athletes stay connected to the handle throughout the stroke. Our sweeps can be used for either side (port or starboard) or sculling if you do not know what type of rowing you will be doing or switch between disciplines. We also make gloves specifically for port or starboard by adding grip to the inside hand.
Get Involved
Many rowing clubs across the country are offering free Learn to Row Day lessons and open house events. Search “National Learn to Row Day” along with your city or local rowing club to find opportunities near you. You can also learn more and explore participant resources through the official USRowing Learn to Row Day page, which includes information on what to expect, how to find participating clubs, and resources for new rowers.
To celebrate National Learn to Row Day, we are offering 10% off all purchases at The Crew Stop. Use code LEARNTOROW2026 at checkout to receive your discount.
