We Can Row Buffalo - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

1. I have never done any sports before. What can I expect?

Here's what you can expect:

1. First, you need to contact us and we will arrange for you to have a "buddy" to help you with the process. Buddies are established members of WeCanRow-Buffalo.

2. We have a number of forms for you to fill out. They include an intake form that requires you to get your healthcare provider's permission to engage in this physical activity.

3. You do not need prior rowing experience to participate. The program is geared to be a recreational learn to row program.

2. What will workouts session be like in the winter months?

Workout sessions will be held at Alumni Arena on Tuesday and Thursday nights. The UB's Women's Rowing Team and their Coaches will be teaching how to row on ergometers (ergs) as well as established workouts specific for rowing. Spring session will include tank training sessions and getting on the water at the UB Boathouse.

3. Can I just do the Spring Session?

 Participants must complete one of the two winter sessions to be able to participate in the Spring Session. When you are learning how to row it is important to learn the basics and practice on the ergometers prior to entering the boat.

4. How much does it cost?

There is a membership fee of $50.00. This will be reviewed annually. The membership fee will be applied to the cost of the recreational card needed to participate in the rowing program at the University at Buffalo and all new members will receive a WECANROW-BUFFALO team shirt.

5. Where does We Can Row meet?

The winter workout sessions (Nov - Feb) will take place at the University at Buffalo's Alumni Arena, which is located on the Amherst Campus.

Google Maps

From the West (Cleveland, Erie, Chicago)
Take the I-90 East until you reach the I-290 (past the Buffalo airport exit). Take the I-290 West (towards Niagara Falls) to Exit 5B (Millersport Highway, Route 263). Get off exit and merge into traffic. Go through first light (Marriott is on your left), and merge into right lane. Enter campus at the Flint Road exit.

From the East (Rochester, Albany, New York City)
Take the I-90 West until you reach the I-290 (just past tolls, follow State University signs). Take the I-290 West (towards Niagara Falls) to Exit 5B (Millersport Highway, Route 263). Get off exit and merge into traffic. Go through first light (Marriott is on your left), and merge into right lane. Enter campus at the Flint Road exit

6. As a result of my cancer therapy, my lymph nodes were removed. I'm concerned that rowing could cause lymphedema. Are you aware of any medical research about the incidence of lymphedema associated with rowing?

You need to speak with your doctor about your individual situation. Dr. Carolyn Kaelin, a physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, is studying female cancer ' survivors who row. A report about Dr. Kaelin's medical practice says, "...Yet even though rowing is a rigorous, repetitious, and demanding arm exercise, none of the rowers in Dr. Kaelin's practice has lymphedema. The theory is that paced activity to build up arm strength and gradually stressed the lymphatics widens the remaining channels to accommodate the increased flow of lymph fluid." The National Lymphedema Network (NFN) reports that the majority of individuals with lymphedema can safely perform aerobic and resistive exercise using the affected parts of the body when compression garments are worn, the affected body part is not exercised to fatigue and appropriate modifications are adopted to prevent trauma and over use. The NFN also says that the majority of individuals who are at risk for lymphedema can safely perform aerobic and resistive exercises using the "at risk" part of the body when exercises are initiated at low intensity and increased gradually. In any event, if you have concerns about this issue, you should review them with your physician.