Have a go
The Adaptive Rower 
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 and wheelchair users.
You can use our Club Finder section to see what clubs are in your area but if you'd like to have a go at rowing we suggest that you get in touch with Jacqui Close who is British Rowing's Club & Coach Adaptive Co-ordinating Coach.
You can contact Jacqui by phone or by email and if you give her brief details about your age, location and your disability she can advise you and make sure that your first taste of rowing is a good experience, and meets your needs.
If you can't get hold of Jacqui, British Rowing's Head Office will be able to advise you.
What does it take to become a Paralympian?
As in all sports at an elite level it takes dedication and talent to become the best - if you think you’ve got what it takes contact Jacqui Close in the first instance with your details. 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). These are explained more fully here.
Coaches and volunteers
How can I get involved?
Contact Jacqui who will let you know the nearest club offering adaptive rowing 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. Contact Jacqui Close for more information.
Clubs and Centres
What facilities do we need?
This will depend on the nature of individual disabilities. Do not assume that all disabled people will be wheelchair users. Some adaptive rowers will need minimal adaptations if any, such as some visually impaired individuals. Others will need adaptations to enable them to access your club – for more advice contact Jacqui Close or see the EFDS guidance for clubs in the Club Resources section.
What equipment will we need?
As mentioned above, not all individuals 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.
