Aquatics
Swimming at the YMCA
The YMCA has a long history of teaching swim lessons. In fact, the Y is credited for being first to develop a group swim instruction program in 1906. We have come a long way since that first group lesson. Our swim curriculum is extensively research-based and enables swimmers to advance more confidently and quickly through the stages.
Lifeguard Training
Class includes certifications in American Red Cross Lifeguard Training, First Aid, CPR/AED, and Administering Emergency Oxygen; these are all valid for 2 years. As well as Bloodborne Pathogens Training; this is valid for 1 year. Participants will also receive a CPR Pocket Mask and Lifeguard Training manual. Participants must attend all classes in order to be eligible to pass the course.
Contact Therese Jarvis or call 509 777 9622 x 4500 for more information.
Pre-requisites:
- 15 years old by the last day of class
- Swim a continuous 300-yard swim – participants may use freestyle (front crawl), breaststroke, or a combination of both
- Swim 20 yards freestyle or breaststroke, dive down 7-10 feet, retrieve a 10-pound brick and bring it back to the surface, then swim with the brick back to the starting point (Both hands must be on the brick and face must be out of the water). This is a timed skill; it must be completed within 1 minute and40 seconds (No goggles allowed)
- 2 minutes continuous treading water, legs only
Swim Lessons
Pre-School
Parent-Child Stage A: Water Discovery 6 months to 3 years, 30 minutes
Infants and toddlers are introduced to the aquatics environment. Accompanied by a parent or guardian, infants and toddlers learn to be comfortable in the water and develop skills through fun and confidence-building experiences. Parents and guardians learn about water safety, drowning prevention, and the importance of supervision.
Parent-Child Stage B: Water Exploration 6 months to 3 years, 30 minutes
Focus on learning body positions, blowing bubbles, and practicing fundamental safety and aquatic skills. In this stage, children are still accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Preschool Stage 1: Water Acclimation Ages 3 – 5 years, 30 minutes
Introduction to the pool and develop safe water habits in a fun and encouraging environment. Students become comfortable with underwater exploration and learn to safely exit a body of water in the event they fall in. This introductory stage builds the foundation for the child’s future progress in swimming.
Preschool Stage 2: Water Movement Ages 3 – 5 years, 30 minutes
Focus on body position and control, forward movement, directional change, and basic self-rescue skills. This stage also reinforces how to safely exit a body of water in the event of falling in.
Preschool Stage 3: Water Stamina Ages 3 – 5 years, 30 minutes
Basic stroke techniques, rotary breathing, and integrated arm and leg action. In the event they fall into a body of water, children learn how to swim, move to safety, and exit.
Preschool Stage 4: Stroke Introduction Ages 3 – 5 years, 40 minutes
Develop basic front crawl and back-crawl strokes and are introduced to components of the breaststroke and butterfly strokes. Students also build endurance and practice safety techniques for deep water.
School Age
SCHOOL AGE Stage 1: Water Acclimation Ages 6 – 12 years, 30 minutes
Introduction to the pool and develop safe water habits in a fun and encouraging environment. Students become comfortable with underwater exploration and learn to safely exit a body of water in the event they fall in. This introductory stage builds the foundation for the child’s future progress in swimming.
SCHOOL AGE Stage 2: Water Movement Ages 6 – 12 years, 30 minutes
Focus on body position and control, forward movement, directional change, and basic self-rescue skills. This stage also reinforces how to safely exit a body of water in the event of falling in.
SCHOOL AGE Stage 3: Water Stamina Ages 6 – 12 years, 30 minutes
Basic stroke techniques, rotary breathing, and integrated arm and leg action. In the event they fall into a body of water, children learn how to swim, move to safety, and exit.
SCHOOL AGE Stage 4: Stroke Introduction Ages 6 – 12 years, 40 minutes
Develop basic front crawl and backcrawl strokes and are introduced to components of the breaststroke and butterfly strokes. Students also build endurance and practice safety techniques for deep water.
SCHOOL AGE Stage 5: Stroke Development Ages 6 – 12 years, 40 minutes
Continue with stroke techniques and are introduced to all competitive strokes. Swimmers develop stamina in the basic front crawl and backcrawl strokes, learn the breast and butterfly strokes. Deep water safety and endurance are also reinforced.
SCHOOL AGE Stage 6: Stroke Mechanics Ages 6 – 12 years, 40 minutes
Further develop skills and form with competitive strokes. Drills improve technique and also include instruction and practice on turns and streamlines.
Adult – All skill levels – Age 13 and older
45-min classes are designed for teens and adults who are beginning swimmers, or looking to develop stroke technique and improve endurance.
Private
All skill levels – All ages 30 minutes, by appointment only
Private and semi-private lessons are a great option for swimmers looking to catch up or get ahead. These lessons provide individualized attention to help improve or master swimming skills. Customized curriculum to meet desired goals.
Swim Team
All skill levels – Ages 6-18 years
The team seeks to provide opportunities for social and emotional development, a physical and recreational outlet, and an atmosphere of good sportsmanship, teamwork and fun for all. Our dedicated and experienced coaches will provide each swimmer with the maximum opportunity for development.
Our team is a great way to start competitive swimming. We hold 60-min practices with an emphasis on stroke technique and conditioning in a fun environment. Must be able to swim 25 yards (length of pool). Beginner & Advanced levels.
Water Exercise
Come on in, the water’s fine! Adults looking to challenge themselves without stress on their joints or members who just enjoy the water can take advantage of our different water exercise classes. Instructors lead small groups through water aerobics, core strengthening and much more.
Gain muscle conditioning and cardiovascular endurance from the aerobic choreography and the resistance of the water. Ideal for all fitness levels & non-swimmers.
Water Features
Lazy River – North YMCA
Slide – Valley YMCA
Kids Play Structure – Central YMCA (available by reservation only)
Warm Water/Rec Pool – Central YMCA (available by reservation only)
Recreation Pools – North and Valley YMCAs (available by reservation only)