Brannon Johnson’s story is one of incredible achievement. Rowing at the Division 1 varsity level all 4 years at the University of Texas. Competing in prestigious rowing competitions on a global scale, including the Henley Royal Regatta on the Thames in London. Coaching over 1000 Philadelphians ranging in ages from 12 to 65. 

And if that wasn’t enough, she founded the first Black-owned and operated rowing organization in the country, BLJ Community Rowing, with a studio on Ridge Avenue (4229 Ridge Ave) in East Falls.  

Brannon started rowing at 14, and fell in love with the sport – even if, or perhaps because, it is in her words “a brutal sport.” That passion landed her an athletic scholarship to the University of Texas, and eventually led to travels around the world. 

Brannon’s experiences on and off the water led her to start BLJ Community Rowing, with a focus on creating opportunities for underserved youth, families and individuals of all ages to get on the water and develop the specific skill set that rowing provides. As Brannon says, “I’ve coached many individuals for whom BLJ was a sanctuary. A place of peace, and also a place of physical and emotional growth.” 

When Brannon began her entrepreneurial journey, she didn’t have a boathouse – which made her “a bit of a laughing stock in the rowing community.” But when COVID hit, BLJ’s nimbleness meant that she had built a solution – a way to be in community and in nature, while pursuing physical wellness during a time of widespread disease, when more traditional boat houses were closed. 

As Brannon’s business grew, she decided to open a space of her own right here in East Falls – and it’s not just for rowing. You can find yoga, lifting, barre and personal training at her studio. 

More than anything, however, Brannon strives to create community – with BLJ Community Rowing members staying healthy together, solving problems together, growing healthier and stronger together. That community means that Brannon has “built something that will outlast me.” 

And she strives to create opportunities for those who don’t think rowing is for them. “You don’t have to be an athlete, you don’t have to be super fit. This studio is for all bodies. Just show up! You might like it more than you think, and you might meet someone who will change your life.” 

You can heed Brannon’s wise words and explore the sport of rowing and all that BLJ Community Rowing has to offer at bljcommunityrowing.com, and on instagram at @BLJCommunityRowing and facebook at @BLJRowing. 

Have Questions?
Want to Learn More?

We want to hear from you. Please email michelle.feldman@eastfallspa.com with any questions.

Stay Connected!

Newsletter Signup

Scroll to Top