Y is for You

Fancy having a go? Competitive rowing does have something of an image problem and getting past those preconceptions is the first step to getting on the water. Some myths busted and realities recognised below:

1. It's elitist and expensive: This is a biggie - many people perceive rowing as a sport that is only accessible to the wealthy or privileged. While it's true that rowing programs are often associated with private schools or universities, rowing is less than you might think. As of 2023, Clyde clubs typically charge around £30 per month membership for adults (less for Juniors) and some clubs offer bursaries. 

In terms of inclusivity, women now make up 50% of most clubs, though sexism still persists. It is also fair to say that the vast majority of rowers are white and middle class. However, most clubs are now working hard to address barriers to the sport and diversify their membership. Clydesdale ARC employs a community coach to reach out to schools and youth groups across the city, particularly in less wealthy areas. They have also developed close ties with LGBT Youth Scotland and LEAP Sports. 

1. It's a sport for tall people: Because rowing relies heavily on leg power, there is a belief that taller people have an advantage. While height can be an advantage in rowing, it is not the only factor that determines success. Rowing is also about technique, endurance, and teamwork.
2. It's a sport for the physically fit: Rowing is a physically demanding sport, but it does not necessarily require athletes to be super-fit. Many rowers start the sport without any prior athletic background and build their fitness over time.
3. It's an individual sport: Although rowing does involve individual effort, it is primarily a team sport that requires coordination and communication between all members of a crew.
4. It's boring: Some people may think that rowing is a monotonous sport that involves doing the same thing over and over again. However, rowing is a dynamic and exciting sport that requires mental focus, strategy, and teamwork to be successful. Many people also find the meditative nature of rowing combined with being out on the water is beneficial to their mental health.

If sliding-seat rowing isn't your bag, and you prefer salt water to fresh, coastal rowing offers a cheaper and more accessible option. Glasgow Coastal Rowing Club, founded in 2016, are based downstream at the Riverside Museum and is one of seventy coastal rowing clubs in Scotland.

Para-rowing facilities are available at Strathclyde Loch and Castle Semple Loch for sliding-seat rowers with disabilities. Sadly, this is not an aspect of competitive rowing where Scotland (currently) excels, and greater investment is badly needed. 

Coastal rowing boats are wider, more stable, and generally better suited for people with mobility issues. As a result, this is a growth area of the sport. St Andrew's Coastal Rowing Club in Fife is at the forefront of adaptive coastal rowing, with disabled facilities and a specially modified skiff available.

If you fancy having a go at any kind of rowing, check out Scottish Rowing and the Scottish Coastal Rowing Association websites for details of your nearest club.