ROW WITH SURC
Training
Training at SURC combines water sessions at Damflask Reservoir with land-based training in Sheffield, including ergs, strength and conditioning, and fitness sessions. Programmes are organised by each squad's captains and focus on developing fitness, technique and teamwork, with training camps throughout the year providing additional opportunities for crews to train together and prepare for racing.
Water Training
Our crews train at Damflask Reservoir throughout the year, with sessions led by squad captains and occasional external coaching for senior squads.
Land Training
Alongside water sessions, squads train at Goodwin Sports Centre, with erg, strength and conditioning, and other fitness sessions to build strength and fitness for rowing.
Training Times
Each squad follows its own training schedule, which varies throughout the year depending on the season, racing calendar and crew availability. Sessions are scheduled outside of class hours, usually before 9am during winter, with more opportunities for afternoon or evening sessions during the summer.
Novice Training Camp
Our Novice Training Camp, held around November, gives new rowers more time on the water to develop technique, build confidence and progress as a crew, while bringing the squad closer together on and off the water.
For many of our novices, training camp is also one of the highlights of their first year at SURC — bringing crews closer together both on and off the water.
Easter Training Camp
Every Easter, SURC heads away for a week-long training camp organised by the club committee.
Taking place during the University Easter break, the camp gives our crews the opportunity to focus entirely on rowing, with an intensive week of training both on and off the water. Away from the usual pressures of university life, crews can work on their technique, fitness and racing preparation ahead of the summer regatta season.
But training camp is about more than just the kilometres. Spending a week training, living and travelling together makes it a memorable part of the SURC experience and a great opportunity for crews and squads to grow closer.
Recent camps have taken SURC overseas, including our 2026 training camp in the Netherlands.