Lap Swimming Etiquette
So everyone can enjoy their workout in the pool, we ask you to follow a few guidelines (below) when using the lap lanes of the swimming pool.
Shallow End
- Enter the pool feet-first.
- If it’s busy, ease in.
Deep End
- You may dive, but only if the pool is completely clear in front of you.
- Just like driving a car, you swim on the right side of the lane in a counter-clockwise pattern.
- Keep the middle of the lane open.
At the wall (recommended)
- Lightly touch the person’s foot in front of you to indicate that you want to pass.
- They will stop at the wall, allowing you to pass.
In the middle of the pool
- Make sure the way is clear.
- Pass on the inside or middle of the lane.
- Lightly touch the person’s foot to indicate that you want to pass. They should ‘hug the lane.’
- Only pass between the backstroke flags.
At the Wall (recommended)
- The swimmer behind you will touch your foot to indicate they want to pass.
- Stop at the right corner of the lane, so they can pass you on the left.
In the middle of the pool
- Slow down a bit.
- Swim as close to the lane line as you can.
- This allows them room and time to pass.
- Six or more swimmers can fit in a lane if proper etiquette is observed and swimmers of like speed are together.
- See passing etiquette above.
- The lanes are designated Fast, Medium, and Slow. These terms are relative.
- Find the best lane for you by watching the current swimmers.
- If you’re still unsure, ask a lifeguard for assistance.
- If you are the first one in the lane, abide by circle swimming so others may join you.
- Swimming in a lane with people at your pace often helps better swimmers’ performance and workout.
- When resting on the wall, stay to the right side of the lane to stay away from swimmers coming in.
- Avoid stopping in the middle of the pool. This causes lane back-up.
- Be aware of the swimmers around you at all times.
- If someone makes a suggestion concerning any of the mentioned etiquette topics, try to make adjustments in the spirit of cooperation.
- If you make a suggestion to another swimmer, try to do it as diplomatically as possible.
- Lifeguards will intercede only if there is a problem that cannot be resolved or if there appears to be a safety concern.