Learning to Swim and Understanding Pool Etiquette
Learning to swim involves mastering multiple skills simultaneously, from perfecting your strokes and breathing techniques to becoming comfortable submerging your head underwater. However, there's another important aspect of swimming that sometimes goes overlooked—pool etiquette.
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| Consider Others In The Pool |
When you're sharing lanes with other swimmers, understanding and following proper pool protocols can help you focus on improving your technique without worrying about disrupting others. If you’re training, speed might also be of the essence so knowing how to avoid people or equipment can help you swim more effectively, without having to stop when you’d rather keep going.
So, whether you’re a beginner finding confidence in the water to a seasoned swimmer maintaining their pace and fitness in a swim spa or lap pool, navigating the rules of shared pools is useful. For those new to the challenges of lane swimming, learning some unspoken rules can help you concentrate on perfecting your strokes or counting lengths without worrying that you’re about to bump into a swimmer coming up from the other end.
Understanding the Essentials of Pool Etiquette
If you’re at your local leisure centre or sharing a pool on holiday, pool etiquette applies universally, regardless of whether you're swimming in an indoor facility or outside. From public gyms to private clubs, these guidelines help create a healthier, happier, and safer swim environment for everyone in the water. While some rules may be explicitly posted, others are unwritten expectations that have evolved through years of shared swimming culture.
Understanding and following these protocols shows respect for fellow swimmers and helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere for all pool users. Swimming pools continue to evolve with modern technology and changing social norms, but certain fundamental principles of pool etiquette remain constant.
Prioritising Safety Wherever You Swim
Every swimming facility may have its own specific set of safety rules based on its unique characteristics and requirements, and adhering to these guidelines is crucial not only for safety but also for maintaining the facility's professional standards.
Across Australia, swimming and water safety is guided by the comprehensive National Swimming and Water Safety Framework, established by the Royal Life Saving Society in 1999. The society leads the way in establishing national water safety standards and best practices, and this framework was created to offer a well-rounded water safety curriculum that guides decision makers, educators, and families alike.
Prioritising swimmer’s safety is so important that judgements must be made by each operator according to the risks posed in their pool. Pool regulations will also need to reflect insurance requirements and best practices developed from years of operational experience, first-hand observations, and external input from teachers.
For toddlers and school-aged children, learning how to swim safely as early as possible is fundamental. For the youngest swimmers, it’s an important life lesson whether they’re in a pool, training session at school, or in the sea. However, for lane swimmers and people who are improving their strokes with regular swims, here are some key points to ensure a positive experience for all ages and swim ranges:
Preparing for a Swim
Always shower before entering the pool—this helps maintain water quality and removes lotions, deodorants, and other products that can affect water chemistry and make the pool unhealthy for other users. Wear appropriate swimming gear, such as goggles to protect your eyes from getting sore and ensure long hair is tied back or covered with a swimming cap.
Learning Lane Selection and Speed Awareness
Choose a lane that matches your swimming speed—most pools designate slow, medium, and fast lanes, but aim to judge the level you fit in before you get into the pool. If you're unsure about your pace, observe other swimmers briefly before selecting your lane. Be prepared to switch lanes if you find yourself consistently being overtaken or having to pass others.
Entering and Exiting Lanes
When joining a lane, wait for approaching swimmers to pass before entering. Make your presence known to other swimmers already in the lane, and consider a gentle wave or nod to acknowledge them. When exiting, ensure you're not obstructing other swimmers' paths.
Passing Other Swimmers
If you need to pass a slower swimmer, tap their foot gently to signal your intention. When being passed, stay to the side of the lane and maintain your pace—don't speed up or slow down suddenly. After passing, ensure you have sufficient space before moving back into position.
Following Lane Discipline and Direction
In busy periods, follow the circle swimming convention—typically keeping to the left in the UK (counterclockwise). This allows multiple swimmers to share a lane efficiently and safely. Maintain a consistent distance from the swimmer ahead of you.
Taking Breaks at Each End
Take rest breaks at the wall in the corner of the lane, leaving space for other swimmers to turn. If you need an extended break, consider temporarily exiting the pool rather than occupying lane space.
Minding Your Personal Space and Swim Gear
Keep personal equipment (kickboards, floats, etc.) close to the wall when not in use. Be mindful of space when using equipment, especially during busy periods. Some pools may have specific rules about equipment usage during peak times.
Communication and Awareness
Maintain awareness of swimmers around you, particularly during turns. If you need to stop mid-lane for any reason, move to the side and signal to approaching swimmers. Clear communication helps prevent collisions and misunderstandings.
Timing Your Swims
Be mindful of pool scheduling—many facilities have designated times for different activities. Arrive early for lane swimming sessions to avoid disrupting established swimming patterns. Check the pool's timetable for specific session times and any restrictions.
Respecting Others
Avoid excessive splashing, and keep conversation volumes low to maintain a focused environment. Respect the personal space of other swimmers, and follow any additional guidelines posted by the facility.
If you're having swimming lessons or are new to designated lane sessions, following the etiquette at all times will help boost your confidence, and allow you to focus more on your technique and the number of lengths you're doing, rather than worrying about disturbing others alongside you. You’ll also help make the pool a friendlier environment, allowing everyone to focus on their personal goals and enjoyment in the water.
Enjoy
Richard
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