Rowing is an easily adaptable sport for persons with physical and intellectual disabilities. Modifications to equipment, instruction, and the rowing stroke can be made as needed. Because the rowing stroke can be segmented into the legs, trunk, and arms, adaptive rowers may row all three parts of the stroke, trunk and arms only, or arms only depending on their physical capabilities and comfort level. The repetitive nature of the rowing stroke also makes Rowing well-suited for people with intellectual disabilities.

Rowers with vision loss, hearing impairment, paraplegia, quadriplegia, amputations, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome, autism, and other disabilities are able to enjoy the sport. The coach and rower will work together to develop the best modification(s) for each individual. Common adaptations are wide, stable two-person boats with sliding seats, single-person boats with stabilizing pontoons, fixed seats for boats and rowing machines, lap belts, chest straps, and handle grips.

Practices are scheduled on an individual basis and held year-round (outdoors/indoors depending on the weather). Adaptive Rowing is open to participants age 14 and up.

We offer programming for UI students, faculty, staff, and community members. Athletes can compete as part of Hawkeye Community Rowing or practice with the team for exercise and to improve rowing skills.  

Athletes must have completed a previous rowing session, or be an experienced rower to join.

Rowing memberships are required to participate.

Register online or at our Member Services desks at the CRWC, Field House, or Hawkeye Tennis and Recreation Complex.

If you are an experienced rower who is interested in being part of the Hawkeye Community Rowing program or for information regarding the practice schedule, please contact Danelle Stipes.

Our Juniors Rowing Team is for any middle/high school students between the ages of 12-18 who are interested in the sport of rowing. Rowing is a great sport that offers many benefits, both physical and mental. It is a great way to learn teamwork, responsibility, and self-confidence. It also has the potential to open doors to many scholarship opportunities for the future. We practice 4-5 times per week at the P. Sue Beckwith boathouse, and during the racing season, we will compete against other programs all around Iowa and the Midwest. 

• Spring season | March - May
• Summer season | June - August
• Fall season | September - November
• Winter season | December - February

Please contact Amy Smith for more information about the program! 

Time to change up your fitness routine! Rowing Bootcamps provide a fun, full body workout in under 45 minutes. The combination of timed intervals on the rowing machines, with body weight and core exercises are guaranteed to challenge all levels of fitness. You can pick your pace and work at your own fitness level while enjoying the energy of others around in a positive team environment. No session is the same, so sign up and enjoy a new workout each Sunday.

• All fitness levels are welcome. The rowing stroke and additional exercises can easily be modified for anyone with injuries or impairments.
• Wear fitted athletic apparel. Bug repellant, hat or sunglasses are encouraged. Baggy clothing is highly discouraged due to the design of rowing equipment.
• Bring a water bottle and towel. Yoga mat is up to you!
• No refunds 3 days prior to the session.
• We will be following all university COVID-19 guidelines, as well as those specific to rowing. More information will be released closer to your bootcamp session.

Contact Assistant Coach, Amy Smith, with any questions specific to this programming.

• Ages: Adults 18+
• Days/Times: Thursdays, 12:05 - 12:50 p.m.
• Dates: January 6, 13, 20, and 27
• Location: Field House, Indoor Rowing Room
• Fee: 
  • UI Students: $15
  • Faculty/Staff/Community: $30

Register

Any UI Student wanting to row can join our collegiate club! To find out more, contact Danelle Stipes. 

Practice days/times:

• Monday, Wednesday, Thursdays | 7-8:30 a.m.