Hi, I’m just getting back into swimming and I’ve started going to a new pool. It’s a 20m pool with 4 lanes. The issue is there are no clearly defined slow or fast lanes, and most of the swimmers are older people doing breaststroke and taking up 3 of the lanes. I’ve found myself sharing a lane with 2 stronger swimmers who can tumble turn, and I feel really intimidated. I spend a lot of time worrying about getting in their way, which makes me lose my rhythm and technique. I enjoy swimming, but these mornings are pretty stressful. Any recommendations on how to feel more at ease?
Just talk to them! When you get in the water, let them know you’re getting back into shape and may be a bit slower, but you don’t want to disturb the slower swimmers in the other lanes. I bet they’ll be friendly and reassure you that you’re not in their way, which can really help reduce your stress. It also makes them aware of your presence, so they won’t start their lap when you are just a few meters from the wall.
Also, pay attention to when you start your lap. Don’t push off the wall right when a faster swimmer passes by. If I’m swimming with someone quicker, I wait until they reach the opposite wall before I start. It creates some distance between us.
You could also ask the lifeguard about possibly consolidating some of the slower breaststroke swimmers into two lanes and creating a medium-speed lane. I used to do this a lot as a lifeguard.
@Alden
I totally agree. Avoid pushing off just before a faster swimmer is about to turn. Swimmers are generally really cool. If you can, try to swim side by side and split the lane. That way, you can swim at your own pace without worrying about slowing anyone down.
@Alden
Thanks for your response. I will try to talk to them and give them a heads up.
I’m careful about not pushing off right before them, as I feel the same way about that kind of etiquette. With the 20m pool, I only manage about 6 lengths before the lead swimmer catches up to me.
The lifeguard noticed my struggle and asked if I was okay this morning, so I will mention it to her tomorrow.
@Reece
I have no problem passing slower swimmers. Ideally, you can time your rests to let faster swimmers go by. If you want to practice your 400 and you’re with someone who will overtake you no matter what, don’t feel like you can’t go for it. Passing is just part of swimming in public pools.
Just talk to them and compliment their swimming. Let them know you’re learning a lot from watching them. A little flattery can go a long way. This will make them feel good and may lead them to offer you some helpful tips. You’ll feel more comfortable as a result.
It’s much better than being in a lane with three silent, grumpy people.
The best thing you can do is visit the pool at different times to find when it’s less busy.
Especially when you’re starting, it’s good to swim slowly and focus on technique. You should be able to at least do a length without anyone getting in your way. If someone else is there, you could wait for them to move before continuing.
Don’t worry too much about getting in their way as long as you aren’t cutting anyone off.
If you’re less focused on speed, just let them pass you at the end of the lane. Stand by the divider rope so they can tumble turn then push off when you are ready.
If possible, you might want to swim in a slower lane, so you won’t have to worry about this kind of thing.
The only issue you’ll run into with etiquette is if people block the end of the pool and leave no space, even though this can happen due to how busy it is.
Just ask! There’s always the chance someone might be rude or focused and seem unfriendly, but as a beginner who’s nervous about sharing lanes, I ask if I can join them, then laugh a little and explain my habits. I usually say something like, ‘I’m still learning how to swim, so I might need to stop suddenly if I panic or mess up my breathing. Is that okay with you? I don’t mind if you swim around me, but if it gets frustrating, I can find another lane.’
After four months of swimming three days a week, I’ve never had someone react badly. Most of the time, older swimmers are understanding and just swim around me, and more advanced swimmers often tell me good luck and not to worry.
@Jaden
And just to clarify, I can swim, but I’m not great at it, so I always say I’m learning to set the right expectations.
When the lanes aren’t defined, check which lane fits your pace the best when you arrive.
If there are 3 or 4 lanes occupied by swimmers around your ability level and one available lane, you can choose to share instead of taking the empty lane. If faster swimmers show up, they’ll likely choose to swim with you if you swim at a reasonable pace.
When you do end up sharing with faster swimmers, move closer to the lane line as they pass and let them go by at the wall whenever you can. If they’re passing you every couple of laps, maybe it’s time to check if switching lanes makes sense.