Recovery on Water Programs — Recovery on Water

NOVICE SQUAD

Where your journey begins! New ROW team members start together in the Novice Squad, learning rowing under the guidance of our caring coaches. You’ll practice 2+ times per week, mastering technique, building endurance, and learning the importance of teamwork both on the water and on the rowing machine. Your Novice year is designed to be challenging, structured, and supportive—helping you build confidence, form life-changing friendships, and forge strong team bonds.

Winter Season: Nov - Mar
Water Season: Apr - Oct
Onboarding Windows: Jan | Mar | Jun | Oct

JOIN THE TEAM

ROW MASTERS

For athletes who want to continue their rowing journey, the Masters Squad is the next step. ROW Masters practice 3+ times per week, focusing on refining technique and mastering the teamwork needed to make a boat go fast. Athletes work together to set and pursue both individual and team goals on the path to skill mastery. Racing opportunities are available during the Spring and Fall water seasons, allowing athletes to test their skills in competitive settings.

Winter Season: Nov - Mar
Spring Water Season: Apr - Jul
Fall Water Season: Jul - Oct

ROW FITNESS

Stay active, stay healthy! Medical research shows that regular exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence, which is why ROW members keep moving all year long. Enjoy endurance, strength, and flexibility workouts available both in person and virtually via Zoom. Plus, you’ll have regular opportunities to get on the water, in both small and team boats.

ROW SOCIAL

More than just exercise—we’re a community. ROW is a team of cancer survivors who understand the unique challenges you face. The support you’ll find here comes in many forms: quiet conversations, shared laughter, help with your oarlock, or even a rocking celebration! Connections made at practice are nurtured through team communications and social events. ROW is your team for life, celebrating a growing community of athletes and survivors 17 years strong.

POWER10 CAMP

A transformative retreat! Join us for a four-day rowing intensive designed for breast cancer survivors and previvors from around the country. Whether you’re new to rowing or looking to advance your skills, Power10 Camp offers a chance to immerse yourself in the sport within a supportive community. It’s perfect for those living outside the Chicago area or those unable to commit to a team schedule. Held every June in beautiful northern Michigan, this camp offers an inspiring experience that renews your sense of strength and resilience in the face of breast cancer. Registration opens in January.

POWER10 CAMP

WELCOME TO ROW’S HOME SWEET HOME CHICAGO

Recovery on Water (ROW) operates from the Eleanor Boathouse in Chicago’s Bridgeport community, offering year-round practices on water and land for athletes of all levels and interests.

THE YEAR IN ROW

Winter Season (November - March)

At ROW, we believe in starting strong. Our year begins in November with all-team sessions on the rowing machines (ergs), where we build endurance and camaraderie. Complemented by strength and flexibility workouts, this indoor training keeps us well-rounded and ready to hit the water when spring arrives. Join us in person at the ROW Erg Loft or virtually via Zoom.

Spring Water Season (April - mid-July)

Spring signals the return to the water for our rowers! Newcomers join the ROW Novice Squad, where they learn essential water safety, equipment handling, and rowing technique. Seasoned athletes with over a year of experience enhance their skills on the ROW Masters Squad. Both squads gear up for exciting racing opportunities at the 1000m sprint distance.

Fall Water Season (mid-July - October)

Splitting our water seasons gives ROW athletes the flexibility to join either or both sessions. During the fall, both Novice and Masters squads focus on refining their skills and preparing for the 5000m head races.