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Rowing swim test and capsize drill: what clubs ask for

Almost every club asks new rowers to show they can swim and handle a capsize. Here is what that usually involves.

By Civil Digital, the team building BoatLog · Last updated

BoatLog is independent software from Civil Digital. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by British Rowing or any organisation named in this guide. Always check the current official guidance and follow your club's own procedures.

The swim test

RowSafe expects rowers to be able to swim, and British Rowing's beginner pages tell newcomers to expect a swim test. Clubs set their own version: commonly a set distance in light clothing, treading water and sometimes a short underwater swim. Junior squads often ask for more. Ask your club what theirs involves.

The capsize drill

A capsize drill teaches a rower to get out of the boat, stay with it and get help, usually in a pool or calm, warm water with a coach present. British Rowing has published capsize training guidance, and many clubs require the drill before anyone goes out in a small boat.

Keeping track

The hard part isn't running the tests, it's knowing later who has passed them, when, and whether a capsize drill needs repeating. A paper list in a drawer doesn't help a coach at the landing stage.

How BoatLog helps

BoatLog records qualifications such as the swim test and capsize drill against each member, with dates, expiry and who verified them. Members can upload their own evidence for a coach or safety adviser to check, and reminders go out before anything lapses.

BoatLog screenshot with example club data: Swim tests and capsize drills recorded per member, with expiry and verification.
Swim tests and capsize drills recorded per member, with expiry and verification. Example data from a fictional club.

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Questions

FAQ

Do you need to be able to swim to row?

Yes. Clubs expect rowers to be able to swim and usually run a short swim test before anyone goes on the water.

How far do you have to swim for a rowing swim test?

It depends on the club. A set distance in light clothing plus treading water is common, and junior squads may ask for more. Check with your club.

How often should a capsize drill be repeated?

Clubs decide. Some treat it as a one-off; others repeat it every year or two, or after a long break from small boats.

Related

Guide: Cold water shock and winter rowing: a club safety guide Why cold water is the biggest winter risk for rowers, what cold water shock and hypothermia mean for a capsize, and simple club rules for winter outings. Guide: DBS checks for rowing clubs: who needs one Which rowing club volunteers and coaches need a DBS check, how checks are arranged through the club welfare officer, and keeping track of renewals. Guide: Coaching launch safety: kill cords, drivers and checks Safety for rowing coaching launches: kill cords, driver qualifications, pre-use checks and what to carry, plus tracking who is qualified to drive.

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