How do I get started?

Adaptive rowing means that the equipment is ‘adapted’ to you as the user and your disability. Rowing lends itself to almost all disability groups, including those with visual impairment, amputees, wheelchair users and those with learning difficulties.

Many British Rowing affiliated clubs offer official disabled rowing programmes and facilities. However, if your local club doesn't offer anything officially they still may be able to help get you started. If you'd like to have a go at rowing we suggest that you get in touch with your local Coaching & Development Team Leader to see what your options are.

What does it take to compete in disabled rowing at an elite level?
As in all sports, elite level takes dedication and talent to become the best. If you've had a go at rowing and think you’ve got what it takes to compete internationally contact Tom Dyson at the GB Rowing Team. There are three different categories for adaptive rowing on the international stage, Legs, Trunk and Arms (LTA), Trunk and Arms (TA), and Arms only (A).

Coaches and volunteers

How can I get involved?
You can contact your Coaching & Development Team Leader who will let you know the nearest club to you.

Do I need any qualifications?
To volunteer to help with the coaching of adaptive rowers (helping with moving equipment and safety etc) you do not need any qualifications, although the club will ask you to fill in a CRB disclosure form (Criminal Records Bureau) for participant welfare purposes. First aid and power boat qualifications are good to have but not essential.

To volunteer as a coach it is an advantage if you have a rowing coaching qualification or are working towards one, but don’t let this put you off – if you have coached a different sport and wish to have a go at coaching rowing there is no reason why you shouldn’t get in touch. You don’t need a different qualification to coach adaptive participants, however you may wish to acquire some further specific information or training to help you out. Again, the club will ask you to fill in a CRB disclosure form.

Clubs and Centres

What facilities do we need?

This will depend on the nature of individual disabilities but a warm welcome and a listening ear are a good start. Do not assume that all disabled people will be wheelchair users. Some adaptive rowers will need minimal adaptations if any. Others will need adaptations to enable them to access your club – for more advice contact your Coaching & Development Team Leader or see the EFDS guidance for clubs in the Club Resources section.

What equipment will we need?
As mentioned above, not all disabled rowers will need adaptations to equipment. Some however will need extra support when on a rowing machine or in a boat, such as those who will row with their upper body in a fixed seat position, and in this case equipment can be bought to allow a safe and enjoyable rowing experience.