Adaptive Rowing Programs

Rachel Freedman·
AdaptiveMasters Boat Clubs

Adaptive rowing is a category of rowing and racing for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Basic techniques of adaptive rowing are the same as those for able-bodied rowers, with modifications made to equipment, coaching technique, and program structure.

In 1980, USRowing Executive Director Chris Blackwall founded the Philadelphia Rowing Program for the Disabled, a first of its kind club specifically for athletes with disabilities. It would be nearly 20 years before adaptive rowing was included in the World Rowing Championships, and 2008 before para-rowing was added to the Paralympic Games.

Today, adaptive rowing opportunities are skyrocketing across the United States and around the world.

Additions or updates? Please use our Club Profile form for quick and easy submissions. Thanks!

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Read more about Paraympic rowing: “The new culture of Paralympic Rowing,” Rowing magazine

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