New to rowing or already experienced?
Kingston Rowing Club offers a complete pathway from first‑time beginners discovering the sport to ambitious student athletes training at a national and international level. Whether you’re stepping into a boat for the very first time or aiming for BUCS, Henley or GB trials, Kingston gives you the coaching, structure and competitive environment to grow, progress and perform.
If you have no rowing experience
Join the Kingston University Students' beginner-oriented squad that aims to be a starting point for people who wish to get into the sport and then carry on further up the club, or to row casually. We aim to bring everyone up to a good standard of fitness and skill over the first year, regardless of starting levels, as we try to give everyone the opportunity to row.
We aim to have three water sessions and multiple land training sessions available throughout the week. As a Novice University Squad, our main aim is to race at the national University rowing competition, BUCS in Nottingham, where we will race against other novices from other universities across the UK. By the end of the year, you will have reached a good enough level to progress up to the other squads available at the club.
For Ambitious Rowers Who Want More
If you’re already an experienced rower and considering Kingston University, you might be wondering whether Kingston Rowing Club can offer the level of training, competition and progression you’re aiming for. The answer is yes — and more than you might expect.
Kingston RC has a long tradition of developing athletes who go on to compete at national and international level, including representation at BUCS Regatta, Henley Royal Regatta, Henley Women’s Regatta, and GB trials and World Championships. Our senior squads train on one of the safest non-tidal and rewarding stretches of the Thames, giving you the perfect environment to refine your boat-moving skills and push your performance further.
A Clear Pathway to High‑Performance Rowing
Experienced Kingston University rowers don’t stay in the student squad — they progress quickly into our Senior Men’s and Senior Women’s squads, where training intensity, technical expectations and racing ambitions match your level.
- High‑quality coaching from experienced senior coaches
- Competitive training groups with athletes targeting major national events
- Structured performance development, including erg testing, video review and race preparation
- Access to club equipment, including high‑performance shells and blades
- Opportunities to race at top UK regattas throughout the season
If you’re serious about rowing, Kingston offers a genuine pathway to the highest levels of university and club competition.
Train Hard. Race Hard. Progress Fast.
Our senior squads train multiple times per week on the water, supported by land sessions including strength & conditioning, erg work and technical drills. You’ll be surrounded by athletes who are as committed as you are — people who want to win, improve, and represent Kingston at the biggest races in the UK.
Holiday Membership for Home Stretch Returning Students
Kingston Rowing Club welcomes back past Junior Members and University Rowers living locally to enjoy our stretch of river during the university holidays, based on a rowing and steering competency assessment.
Returning students can choose between a £30 fee per holiday or an annual £50 fee that covers all holidays.
Please email the club captain if you are interested in using our facilities and, subject to availability, joining the senior squad outings during the holiday periods at info@kingstonrc.co.uk