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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I have never done any sports before and I’ve heard rowing is really hard. What can I expect?

Many of us were never athletic before starting WeCanRow-Boston. Here’s what you can expect:

1. First, you need to contact us and we will arrange for you to have a “buddy” to help you with the process. Buddies are established members of WeCanRow-Boston.
2. We have a number of forms for you to fill out. They include an intake form that requires you to get your healthcare provider’s permission to engage in this physical activity.
3. Once you have completed the forms, we will set a start date for you to join us at the tanks or at Community Rowing, Inc. on Nonantum Rd. in Newton. Your first session will consist of:
   • Meeting with the physical therapist who will ask about surgeries and treatment and assess your strength
   • Meeting with our coach, who will work with our PT to determine the best side for you to row on (port or starboard).
   • Warming up on the erg (rowing machine). Our coach will give you the basics of the stroke.
   • If you start in the Fall/Winter with the tanks, you will likely spend more time on the erg and then have a chance to take a seat and experience rowing with an actual oar.
   • If you start during the Spring/Summer, you will row in the training barge with your buddy, other new members and regular members, who will help you and cheer you on!  Our coach will monitor your efforts and check in with you to make sure the pace is appropriate for you.
   • At the end of the row, the oars get put away and some stretching is in order.
   • Your buddy will call you before the next session to get your impressions and answer your questions.
   • New members can expect to row in the barge until they and the coach feel they are ready to transition to a boat, which would have 8 rowers and a coxswain. When you row in a boat, the coach drives alongside you in a launch and coaches from there.

What do I bring? What do I wear?

Be prepared to sweat! You can work really hard and heat up even when it’s cold and rainy, so dress in layers. We have a fact sheet that your buddy will send you that explains this in more detail.

How much does it cost?

The first 6 months of the program is free to breast cancer survivors who have completed their treatment and have permission to participate in this physical activity from their healthcare provider. In order to provide this Introductory Membership, WeCanRow-Boston depends on charitable contributions.

What if I want to continue rowing after the first 6 months?

If you wish, you can become a member of WCR-B. We schedule our rowing fees twice a year:

• From April to October, we row on the Charles River at Boston University's DeWolfe Boathouse.
• From November to March, we use the indoor tanks at Boston University and have strength training options as well.

We will be happy to discuss past years’ fees with you. We try to have a sliding scale to encourage members from all socioeconomic levels.