Meet your crew
Crews are formed early in term and begin learning rowing language, equipment and basic movements.
Start rowing
Your first stroke starts here.
No rowing experience is necessary—most Peterhouse rowers begin as complete novices.
Novice rowing
Learn together from the beginning.
Novice term introduces new rowers to the sport in a friendly crew environment. You will learn the rowing stroke, boat handling, basic fitness and how to move safely on the Cam.
You do not need to arrive fit, know rowing terminology or understand how a boat works. The coaching programme starts with the fundamentals and builds gradually.
The only essentials are enthusiasm, willingness to learn and a commitment to your crewmates.
Get on the water
Coaches and coxes guide you through your first outings, building balance, rhythm and confidence.
Race Peterhouse
Novice crews work towards their first races and the unmistakable excitement of representing College.
Your first term
What should I expect?
- A welcoming introduction and no expectation of previous experience.
- Regular coached outings with the same crew.
- Basic ergometer sessions and technique instruction.
- Help with clothing, terminology and river procedures.
- Social events with other novice and senior crews.
- Opportunities to continue into senior rowing.
Everyone in the boat remembers their first outing.
Common questions
Before your first outing.
Do I need to be fit?
No. Fitness develops through training. Beginners of varied sporting backgrounds are welcome.
What should I wear?
Close-fitting sports clothes, suitable trainers and several light layers are ideal. Avoid loose clothing that could catch in the equipment.
Can postgraduate students join?
Yes. Undergraduate and postgraduate students are encouraged to take part in novice rowing.
What if rowing is not for me?
You can also become a cox. Coxing is an active and important way to join the club without rowing.
Your crew
Start together.
Novice rowing is as much a social experience as a sporting one. Training together quickly creates a sense of crew identity and a new group of friends across Peterhouse.
Register your interest