Lap Swimming Etiquette

1. Choose a lane according to your speed.

Yes, we all want to think that we are the fastest swimmer in the pool. Choose a lane that matches up with how quickly (or slowly) you are planning on swimming. In other words, the lane in which the swimmers are the least likely to impede your swimming, and vice versa.

2. Don’t push off right before a swimmer comes in to turn.

3. Joining a lane.

Before starting in a lane with other swimmers, get in a corner of the lane and wait there until all swimmers have completed the lap and know that you have joined their lane.

3. Give other swimmers space.

Do not push off right before someone turns; don’t swim on the heels of other swimmers.

6. Don’t split the lane unless agreed to.

If there are two swimmers in a lane often times they will split it, with one swimmer taking a side. This is something that should be decided between the two swimmers – don’t jump in and assume the other swimmer will automatically understand what you mean to do.

Similarly, when you are the third swimmer to the lane, do the courteous thing and wait at the end of the lane until both swimmers see you and revert back to circle swimming.

7. Rest in the corners.

Rest in the corners of the lane, as close to the wall or lane rope as possible so that other swimmers can turn unobstructed.