Frequently Asked Questions

>>What sort of club is the Boat Club?
The Boat Club is one of the largest, most successful and friendly clubs at Surrey. The competitive side of the club is in the form of the Rowing Team, but don't go thinking we don't reward hard work; our mantra of 'Train Hard, Play Hard' is perfect for all our members.

>>I have never rowed in a boat before does that matter?
No. We will teach you everything you need to know about rowing on the water and rowing indoors (using the Concept2 rowing machine)

>>By joining the Rowing Team what can I expect?
If you have not rowed before you will join the beginners Group, who train, race and (most importantly) socialise together throughout the year. You will be racing mainly against beginners from other universities and local clubs in eights and fours, leading on to national competitions by the end of the year. If you have rowed before then you should contact the relevant squad captain (details can be found on the committee page)

>>What sort of coaching is there?
We have 3 dedicated coaches up until Christmas, the men's and women's beginner squads will have one coach each. After Christmas the whole club consolidates and beginners have one coach and seniors have one coach. We also have access to our alumni members who have gone on to represent their club at International Regattas. As well as occasional coaching from Molesey Boat Club coaches.

>>How often will I train each week?
We tend to start with 2-3 sessions per week and build up to around 4-6 sessions a week by the Summer Term.

>>Will there be socials?
OH YES!!! There are regular boat club socials organised by the Social Commander. These nights are notorious for fun and games, just ask the seniors what they got up to!

>>When does the racing start?
You will be able to compete in races as soon as the coaching team believe you are ready. For most beginner squads this is normally around November/December. Although the seniors will be racing from October.

>>Will the training be hard?
Simply put yes, but don't worry we build it up very gradually so you wont even notice. We concentrate on technique and balance in the boat to begin with as well as preparing your body for endurance and conditioning.

>>Where does it lead to?
The beginner's programme is designed to introduce new members to the club by teaching them the basics of rowing and how to live healthily at university. It's also a guaranteed way of making friends.

For those with high aspirations... The Rowing Team is based at Molesey Boat Club (www.moleseyboatclub.co.uk). Molesey Boat Club is a British Rowing World Class Start training centre where future Olympians are recruited to and trained. You could represent Great Britain in 2016 or even London 2012!