Swimming Pool FAQs, Rules & Policies

Rules for Sharing a Lane with Other Swimmers

1) When you first arrive, rinse off at the pool-side shower.

Showering before entering the pool sends a clear message that you’re doing everything you can to keep the water clean.

2) If there’s an empty lane, swim in it.

Always take an empty lane if one is available. Keep in mind that some lanes are reserved for programming.

3) If there isn’t an empty lane and you will be sharing a lane with another swimmer, make it known that you’re entering.

Hop down on your butt and dangle both legs into the lane, off to the side near the rope. If the swimmer doesn’t acknowledge your existence get all the way into the water and stand in the corner of the lane. You can start swimming after you are sure they know you are there. This will prevent collisions. It is recommended that you have a brief conversation about either splitting the lane or circle swimming with your new lane partner.

4) If the other swimmer is faster than you, don’t push off in front of them.

Faster swimmers have priority in shared lanes. It isn’t done to award athletic prowess, but rather to make the workout safer and more efficient for everyone involved.

5) If more than two people are in a lane, swim in a circular pattern.

In order to avoid collisions, you must swim in either a clockwise or counterclockwise pattern when more than two people are sharing a lane. If there are only two swimmers in a lane you can pick sides and swim on only your side.

6) If a swimmer taps your foot they want to pass.

When your feet get tapped, don’t be alarmed or embarrassed. Simply pull into the corner of the lane when you reach the wall so the swimmer behind you can pass. If they pass before the wall, get as close to the rope as you can and slow down, but you don’t need to stop. Don’t speed up while being passed. If you get passed twice by the same person, consider moving to a slower lane.

7) Stay away from the center of the wall when taking a rest.

It’s perfectly acceptable to take a rest at the wall on either end of the pool whenever you feel the need, just be sure to stay clear of the center of the wall if you’re sharing the lane. Give the active swimmers as much room as possible to turn. When you’re ready to start swimming again, always yield to swimmers who are in motion.

8) Just be nice. 🙂

The beautiful thing about politeness is the simplicity. The unwritten rules of a lap pool are somewhat complex, and it’s easy to forget something. The simple act of always being nice to your fellow swimmers, regardless of their ability, is the only rule you truly need to follow.