The Tideway Scullers Senior Programme aims to build strong small boat skills as a foundation for competitive success across all levels and boat classes. The squad has the ability to cater to individuals and provide flexibility to balance rowing with adult life.

At TSS the programme has been developed by asking two questions:

1. How much time do you have available?

2. What volume/ type of training can you recover from to train consistently?

With such a varied range of careers and time commitments at the club the answer to these questions will never be the same for everyone and will fluctuate throughout the year, so we run an 8-10 session a week core programme (slightly more sessions are available for Senior Trialists as well leading into main events of the racing calendar). We cater for different levels of athletes from Senior/U23 Trialists to Competitive Club level rowers.

Core Programme:

Monday           AM - Strength and Conditioning | PM - AT erg

Tuesday          AM - On Water Row | PM - UT2 erg

Wednesday   AM - Strength and Conditioning

Thursday         PM - Cardiovascular Conditioning (Erg/Run)

Friday               AM - On Water Row

Saturday     1st session: Long UT2 paddle/Squad Piece | 2nd session: Technical, skill focus

Sunday        Off through winter, unless there is a particular race scheduled. Will look to add Sundays as the warmer months come. Note: Trialists row on most Sundays.

We take pride in an athlete-centred approach, working with each rower to find the right training volume — whether that’s cycling to work or adding running, weights, ergs, and water sessions. Athletes set a range of goals, from improving technique and increasing endurance to achieving personal bests or earning a seat in a specific boat. 

Training offers plenty of chances to compete alongside teammates and track progress with clear metrics. In autumn, we focus on small boats to build boat-moving skills, then shift to larger boats for the main Head season. Our capped squad size ensures strong opportunities to race in top boats throughout the year.

Our senior coaches want athletes to feel excited about training — whether at the club or on their own near work or university. While there will be challenging phases, enjoying your training helps sustain long-term commitment.

When appropriate, our 2k and 5k tests align with GB Rowing Team trials, allowing aspiring internationals to train alongside the squad. Strength and conditioning combines mobility, conditioning, and traditional strength work. Joining TSS doesn’t mean stepping down from university rowing, but it requires smart time and recovery planning. 

Training Camps:

We are keen to give athletes the opportunity to go on training camps abroad. Current plans for the 2025/26 season are:

  • An Easter camp in the Netherlands followed by Ghent Regatta (currently scheduled for 11-19th April).

 
Find out more about our coaching team