Adaptive rowing

Overview
Adaptive rowing is sweep rowing or sculling for people with physical or intellectual disabilities/limitations, including, in part, paraplegia, quadriplegia, Downs Syndrome, blindness, visual impairment, multiple sclerosis, amputation, cerebral palsy and spina bifida.

Adaptive Rowing Classifications

• Row with full rowing stroke
• Can include individuals with MS, Visual Impairments, Amputation, Cerebral Palsy, Intellectual Disability, etc

Trunk and Arms (TA)

• Row with body swing and arms, using a fixed seat
• Can include individuals with Spinal Cord Injury, Cerebral Palsy, MS, Amputation, etc

Arms and Shoulders (AS)

• Row with arms and shoulders, using a fixed seat with back support
• Can include individuals with Spinal Cord Injury, Polio, Cerebral Palsy, MS, Spina Bifida, etc

Argonaut Adaptive Rowing Program

There are three main goals of the Argonaut Adaptive Rowing Program:

1. LEARN TO ROW: Through our Adaptive Learn to Row program, we introduce the sport of rowing to individuals with a disability throughout the community. The Adaptive Learn-to-Row is scheduled in June and participants need to be available for 2 to 3 hours on either Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Private lessons may be available depending on equipment and coach availability.
    
2. RECREATIONAL/FITNESS ROWING: We provide opportunity for recreational adaptive rowers to have access to a crew situation, upon completion of their learn to row. Adaptive athletes are encouraged to integrate within other recreational crews if they are looking for additional water time. This can be done through our recreational coordinator who helps to facilitate crew formations, or by putting your contact information on our crew spares list.
    
3. COMPETITIVE ROWING: We foster and train competitive adaptive rowers towards the provincial, national and international competition levels. This competitive approach requires dedication and overall physical fitness. The athletes follow a structured training plan and have a high level of personal commitment. Crew boating decisions are made at the coach's discretion with the goal of individual athlete development and overall crew potential.

Adaptive Learn to Row Program

Adaptive Learn to Row sessions sessions are scheduled based on demand.
For program information, please contact the head coach at coach@argonautrowingclub.com

NOTE: Individual sessions at alternate times may be scheduled for athletes with mobility constraints who will be using fixed seat equipment.  Please discuss your requirements with the adaptive program coordinator prior to registering for a specific session.

REQUIREMENTS

You should be age 18 or older, and be comfortable on the water although it is not strictly necessary that you know how to swim.  We learn in stable rowing shells that are designed not to tip.  Personal floatation devices (PDF's) are provided.  You should be reasonably fit, in order to lift boats and handle an increased heart-rate as we build up our speed on the water.  

WHAT TO WEAR

Running shoes, shorts, t-shirt, and socks.  On warm, sunny days, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and a bottle of water to stay hydrated.  On cool, windy days, a sweatshirt and long pants.  If it looks like rain, a waterproof jacket and hat.  Avoid loose-fitting clothing as it may impede movement and get caught in the equipment.  The Club has complete locker/change room facilities.

WEATHER

Classes always meet at the scheduled time.  In case of inclement weather, the class may move indoors for technique and fitness training on the ergs.  We will row in light rain, provided other conditions are favourable.  

CLUB LOCATION

The club is located on the Toronto Western beaches waterfront south of Jamieson Avenue. If driving, we have a large parking lot.  If coming by TTC, use the King West or Queen West Streetcar, get off at Jamieson Ave and walk south, across the Lakeshore bridge and into our walkway (red brick building).  See directions for map.

REGISTRATION

Prior to registration for the Adaptive Learn to Row, please review your requirements with the Adaptive Program Coordinator to ensure access to proper equipment and support.

There are limited seats per session.  

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions about the Adaptive Learn to Row Program or any general questions about the overall Adaptive Program at the club, please contact coach@argonautrowingclub.com.