Comments on: Lane Etiquette for Lap Swimming

By: Jared

Jared — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:41:26 +0000

I’ve always split the lane with two to make it easy and I’ve always swam counter-clockwise (Michigan). I’ve never seen or heard of people swimming clockwise. Did you get them switched around or is Michigan just on Australia rules? It would make sense to me that we would swim down the right side (counter-clockwise) and not down the left side (clockwise) I was a swimmer in school and now swim competing in Triathlons.

By: T

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:36:05 +0000

Rich. I would have to disagree. Pure swimming “rules” dictate circle swim -or down on eight back on left -even with two swimmers. It is a good habit to use at all times-in case more show up.

By: Rich

Rich — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 22:04:42 +0000

Only need to circle swim when there are 3 or more swimmers in the lane. If only 2 it is better to divide down center and stay on your side. That way there are no passing problems.

By: Jeff

Jeff — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:27:18 +0000

Sound advice. Might I add, If you are sweaty, please shower off before jumping in the pool. I hate the people who come right from the sauna and hop in my lane. Also, if you want to share a lane with one other swimmer, recommend splitting the lane (each of you takes a side of the lane) as opposed to circle swimming. That way you don’t get in each other’s way.

By: Dan

Dan — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:42:32 +0000

Some great tips! This are the things that you wonder about, but are afraid to ask. I think a lot of beginners or novice swimmers don’t spend enough time in the pool to really learn the etiquette. Many feel uncomfortable enough just getting in the pool.

The only problem I see is waiting for someone to stop swimming, before you ask them. I have been in the pool and people are swimming miles at a time. I also see Older people 55+ do not like sharing lanes!