We teach the type of rowing known as sweep rowing where each student rows with one oar. Both type of rowing utilizes a sliding seat, which increases the length and power of the rowing stroke.

All Learn to Row classes are held at the MBC boathouse on Raspberry Island in St. Paul. All in-boat training will occur on the Mississippi River.

Yes, enrollment is limited by the number of seats available (12) in each session and the number of sessions (5) for the Learn To Row program.

Yes, you will get an automated email confirmation of your class enrollment when you complete your credit card transaction. In addition, about two weeks before the start of your session, you will receive a course packet by postal mail which it will contain directions to the MBC boathouse and a student manual for you to read before your first class.

We will refund 75% of your payment ($146) if you need to cancel your enrollment. No refund will be given after you begin your session.

In the event that you are not able to attend the class session for which you enrolled, please contact us as soon as possible at by contact Miriam Baer, the Learn to Row coordinator, at miriambaer@comcast.net. If rescheduling your classes to another session is not possible, we will refund your class fee (see #5 above).

Wear tight fitting clothes that you would wear if you were going to go for a jog. T-shirt, tight shorts, and an old pair of tennis shoes (they're probably going to get wet) is ideal. If the weather is cool, wear sweats or a light jacket. A water bottle is recommended for hot days.

During the first class session, you will be introduced to the sport of rowing by getting a tour of the boathouse, watching a safety video and learning the basics of the rowing stroke on a rowing machine, also called an erg. The remainder of your class sessions will be spent on the water (weather permitting) learning how to row. You will start in a "rowing barge" that can fit all 12 rowers in your session. The barge has a motor that allows your instructor to steer and power the boat if necessary.

For the final session of the class, you may move to an 8-person rowing shell. Your class will be split up, and a few experienced rowers will join you in the boat. You will alternate between watching and receiving instruction in a coaching launch and rowing.

You will receive initial instruction on the Concept 2 rowing machine, followed by on-the-water instruction in our "rowing barge". The rowing barge is a fantastic teaching tool, offering an extremely safe and stable platform for our rowing instructors to teach up to 12 individuals. The barge is equipped with an outboard motor which makes it completely maneuverable regardless of the skill level of the rowers. Instructors have access to each rower via a central walkway allowing hands-on instruction. Once all students acquired sufficient skill level, then the students will progress to the rowing shell.

After you have completed a rowing program, you can join MBC at a reduced membership rate of $200. You will not be required to submit a $50 volunteer deposit for your first year. Once your membership has been processed, you can row in the Novice Rowing Program and receive additional coaching on sweep rowing, sculling, boat handling, and boathouse etiquettes. Furthermore, you can take the other rowing program (Learn To Scull) free of charge based on class space availability.