...ensures a safe, respectful, and efficient swimming environment for everyone. By following shared guidelines, swimmers of all levels can enjoy their workouts without confusion or collisions, fostering a positive and inclusive team culture.
Arrive no later than 10 minutes before the start of practice and check in with the sign-in person. If you arrive after that cut off, you will not be able to attend that workout. On weeknights, we meet at the main doors to the Aquatic Centre on Beach Avenue and, on weekends, we meet at the east doors next to the parking lot.
Do your best to choose a lane that matches your swimming ability and speed. If unsure, ask a coach to help you. In short course (25 meters/yards) practices, there are a maximum of 6 swimmers per lane, and 12 per lane in long course (50 meters) practices. Coaches may do some rearranging of swimmers during the warmup if necessary. Please respect the coach’s directions to move you up or down a lane.
Within each lane, swimmers should arrange themselves from fastest to slowest. This can be different depending on the set, stroke, or distance. In all cases, it is the lead swimmer's duty to keep the pace or rest time set by the coach.
Allow 5 seconds between swimmers in short course (25 meters/yards) practices. Note that allowing more than 5 seconds in sets over two lengths in a short course pool may result in the lead swimmer overtaking and frustrating the end swimmer. Allow 5 or 10 seconds in long course (50 meters) practices depending on how many swimmers are in the lane and the distance being swum. If there are 8 or more swimmers, it is best to stick to 5 seconds between swimmers to avoid the lead swimmer overtaking and frustrating the end swimmer.
Swim in a circle within each lane, staying to the side of the black centre line. Alternate lane direction between each lane - one going clockwise, the next counter-clockwise - to avoid arm collisions.
To pass the swimmer in front of you, touch their toes twice so they know to stop at the end of the length to allow you to pass. Mid-length passing is only allowed in long course (50 meters) practices, otherwise passing must happen at the end of the length where it is safe to do so. Do not tailgate the swimmer in front of you if they are slower, instead follow passing protocols.
When approaching the end of the length to do a turn, cut into the centre of the lane to ensure you turn mid-wall. Push off on the other side of the lane, maintaining the circle and avoiding a head-on collision with the swimmer behind you. At the end of the swim or set, move over so the swimmer behind you can also touch the wall. This is especially important in timed sets.
Swim the workout posted on the whiteboard as closely as possible. In some cases, swimmers may opt to modify the stroke (i.e., substitute a different stroke, use/not use equipment) so that they can meet the times posted and/or avoid injury. Swimmers should confer with lanemates about substitutions prior to the set to minimize disruption to others. Swimmers should not be modifying interval distances or times from those posted unless the entire lane is in agreement to do so.
Equipment, such as paddles and fins, are to be used only when the coach allows. The only exception is a swimmer is advised by a medical professional to use the equipment and the coach has confirmed it can be used.
Avoid wearing large watches as they can cause injuries to other swimmers. When wearing a watch or swim tracker, please be aware of where your arms are to avoid hitting other swimmers. Jewelry should be left at home
* If unsure about lane etiquette, please ask a coach or exec member for clarification.