Swimmers Guide

Are you new to swimming or hesitant about joining a Masters swim club? You're not alone!

Welcome to Masters Swimming!

Many adults join Masters Swimming for fitness, fun, or competition at all skill levels. Whether you're training for a specific event or just looking for a great workout, Swim Melbourne Masters offers structured workouts, professional coaching, and a welcoming community. Here's everything you need to know to dive in with confidence:

Why Join a Masters Swim Club?

🏊 It’s for Everyone

The mission of U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) is to empower adults to improve their lives through swimming. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced swimmer, Masters swimming welcomes all levels. If you can swim one length of the pool and are willing to learn, you’re already one of us.

💪 Fitness & Health

Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that builds endurance, strength, and cardiovascular health.

🤝 Supportive & Social

Meet like-minded people, find training partners, and stay motivated in a positive, team-based environment.

🎯 Structured Workouts

Train with an experienced coach on deck guiding swimmers of all levels through targeted swim workouts.

🧘‍♀️ Stress Relief & Mental Well-being

Swimming helps clear your mind and reduce stress. The steady movement, controlled breathing, and calming effect of the water create a great mental reset. Add in the mood boost from exercise and the positive vibes from lanemates, and it’s easy to see why people leave practice feeling better than when they arrived.

Common Concerns – And Why They’re Not a Problem

“I’m not fast enough or good enough to be a masters swimmer.”
No worries! U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) is simply the national sanctioning body for adult swimmers 18+. Everyone trains at their own pace.

“I only know freestyle.”
Totally fine! Most swimmers rely on freestyle, and we can help you learn other strokes if you're interested.

“I’m nervous about group workouts.”
That’s completely normal. Our club is friendly, and everyone remembers what it’s like to be new. You’ll feel at home in no time.

What to Expect at Swim Practice

  • Warm-Up: Easy swimming to get loose and comfortable.
  • Drills & Technique: Coach led work on swim form, balance, and efficiency.
  • Main Set: Intervals and varied intensities customized to your level.
  • Cool Down: Smooth swimming to recover and relax.
  • Rest Breaks: Take them as needed, especially in the beginning, we encourage listening to your body.

Lane Etiquette: Swimming Smoothly with Others

  • Circle Swim: Keep to the right side of the lane.
  • Let Others Pass: Pause at the wall if a faster swimmer approaches, let them pass to the left.
  • Follow the Pace Clock: Leave on intervals as instructed by the coach.
  • Communicate: Be courteous and ask if unsure.
  • Be Aware at the Wall: Let everyone get to the wall. Clear the wall space for swimmers finishing a lap or making a turn for the next lap.

What Swim Gear Do I Need?

Essential for Every Practice

  • Swimsuit
  • Goggles (that fit well and don’t leak)
  • Swim cap (optional but useful for long hair)
  • Water bottle or your favorite sports drink to stay hydrated

Optional but Helpful (ranked Coach B.J.'s order of importance)

  • Fins (help with body position, strength training and kick technique)
  • Hand Paddles (build strength and improve pull mechanics)
  • Swim Snorkel (improves technique and isolates breathing)
  • Pull Buoy (supports legs while focusing on arms)
  • Kickboard (great for social kicks and kick sets)

Want help choosing swim gear?
Fin Comparison Chart
Hand Paddle Comparison Chart

Where to Buy Swim Gear

In-Store (local)

Online

Tips for New Swimmers

  • Start Slow & Be Consistent – Progress builds over time, consistently swimming 2-3 days a week builds and reinforces proper swim technique.
  • Ask Questions – Our coaches and teammates are here to help.
  • Celebrate Small Wins – Improvement in swimming is incredibly rewarding. Physical changes and significant improvements typically come in the first 4-6 weeks of consistent training.
  • Stretch & Hydrate – Prevent injuries and stay comfortable.
  • Stay Positive – Encouragement goes a long way in the pool.

Want to See What It’s Like?

We can’t wait to see you at the pool!

First Time Masters Swimmers: try it free for a week! Ready to Join Us! Drop-In / Visitors