Circle Swimming
Just like driving a car, you swim on the right side of the lane in a counter-clockwise pattern, keeping the middle of the lane open.
Passing
The best place to pass someone is at the wall. A light touch of the foot of the person in front of you will
indicate to them to stop at the wall or ‘hug the lane’ and let you pass. If you pass in the middle of the pool, it
should be between the backstroke flags, and you should pass in the inside or middle of the lane.
If you are the person being passed, please stop at the wall to let them pass. It is best to stop and go to the
right corner of the lane, then they can pass you on the left. If they are passing you in the middle of the pool,
just swim as close as you can to the lane line and slow down a bit to allow them room and time to pass.
Number of People in a Lane
Several people (as many as 6 or more) can fit in a lane if proper etiquette is observed and swimmers of like speed
are together.
Lane Speed
The best way to find the lane that is best for you, is to watch those who are swimming. If you are the first one in
the lane, just abide by circle swimming so others may join you. If you aren't sure what lane, ask a lifeguard for
some assistance. Swimming in the same lane with people at your same pace could help you swim better and have a
better workout.
Stopping/Resting
If you are resting on the wall, stay to the right side of the lane to stay away from swimmers coming in.
Stopping in the middle of the pool should be avoided. If the lane is crowded and one person stops, all will
have to stop. Be aware of the swimmers around you at all times.
The Diplomacy of Shared Space
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. Please be courteous and responsive if you are asked to move lanes by the lifeguards. The lifeguard
on duty will have the final say in arrangement of lanes.
Lane Line Changes
Be alert to the lane lines when they are being added or removed from the pool. There may be a delay in the
pool schedule between changing activities.
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