LINK to December 2023 webinar on YMCA Masters Swimming.
Masters swimming is for adults age 19 and older who enjoy swimming for exercise with other adults. Competition is completely optional and competitive swimming experience is not required. Swimmers of all levels are welcome in Masters swimming. Many Masters swimmers participate for the instruction, health benefits and community aspects. Some YMCAs offer coach-led workouts while others offer designated space and time for swimmers to work out together.
YMCA Masters swimming is not coordinated nationally; however, there are many YMCAs across the country that offer organized adult swimming programs. Contact your local YMCA for information about Masters program offerings. Reach out in the Aquatics community on Link or contact Meredith Griffin to find other YMCAs offering Masters swimming.
USMS (United States Masters Swimming) is the non-profit national governing body for Masters swimming. They offer resources for local Masters programs, including YMCAs. They can also assist with finding a Masters coach, growing a program and providing adult swimming instruction. Contact Bill Brenner for information or assistance from USMS for starting or growing your YMCA Masters program.
YMCA of the USA offers the YMCA National Masters Meet annually in the spring. It is as much a celebration of community, health, well-being and love of the water as it is a competition. There are no time standards. The only qualification is to be a full privilege YMCA member of the YMCA you represent in the meet. See the National Masters Meet page for more information.