Lap Swimming Etiquette

Don’t you love swimming peacefully in your own lap? That is until someone joins you at least! Unfortunately, there are usually not enough lanes for each individual to have their own. This means that everyone needs to be on the same page so swimming can remain fluidly without injury or disturbance. Here are some tips when joining a lane!

1.       Entering a Lane

Be aware of the speed of the individuals already in the pool. Some may be swimming faster, some may be swimming slower. Carefully choose which speed is most like yours. Before entering the pool, make sure the swimmer is aware you are entering their lane. You can either do this by sitting along the side with your feet in the water or standing near the edge likely to be seen when they are turning. 

2.       Passing

There may come a point where you will need to pass another individual when sharing a lane. Don’t worry about it! Before attempting to pass, simply tap the other person’s feet. Don’t grab or pull. When you are driving a car, you use your turn signals; while swimming, you use a friendly tap. If your feet are tapped, do not slow down as it may cause a collision. If you are the one looking to pass, this is typically done so on the left. Always remember to keep swimming at your own pace, and if someone passes you – don’t sweat it!

3.       Spacing

If you are the slower swimmer, try pushing off the wall close behind the faster swimmer. This will extend the time it will take before the other swimmer needs to pass again. As for faster swimmers, you should push up right before the slower swimmer approaches the wall. Again, this will extend the time it will take before passing again. 

With these tips in mind, you have no reason to fret! You have the basics down, now you just need to get out there and swim! You never know, you may be pushed by sharing a lane with a faster swimmer!