The YMCA

For Youth Development
For Healthy Living
For Social Responsibility

Teen Beginner

  • Ages: 13-17 years
  • Ratio of 4 participants-to-1 instructor
  • Member Price: 8-day Swim Lessons $45, 5-day Swim Lessons $40
  • Non-Member Price: 8-day Swim Lessons $114, 5-day Swim Lessons $100

This class is for teens that have not had swimming lessons or are not comfortable in water. Swimmers learn fundamental skills, adjust to the water and develop proficiency in the pool.

Prerequisites: None. Registration Required.

A Typical Class

Class consists of learning strokes such as front and back crawl, elementary backstroke, scissors kick, whip kick, treading water and diving. Instructors work with swimmers on stroke development, rotary breathing and water safety instruction.

Class Length: 40 minutes

Outcomes/Benefits

  • Increased knowledge of water safety
  • Increased swimming skills
  • Positive adjustment to water
  • Readiness for next swim instruction level: Teen Intermediate

Tips & Preparation

  • Arrive early; allow at least 10 minutes prior to class start times to change into swimming attire and to stow away items in the locker room.
  • Use the restroom and shower with soap before entering the pool.
  • Inform the instructor of fear of water or bad experiences with the water to ensure a more positive lesson.

Attire and What to Bring

Come to class dressed and ready for the pool.

  • Clothes, street shoes and other personal items can be stored in the locker rooms; bring your own lock and leave your valuables at home.
  • Family appropriate, clean swimsuit and swim attire is required.
  • Sandals or flip-flops are permitted in the pool area; No street shoes permitted.
  • Towel, goggles if desired.  Masks and snorkels are not allowed.

View Teen Beginner Schedules & Register


I loved that the Instructor was in the water with the kids not just watching from the side. He was very involved, positive and engaged. He demonstrated & helped developed skills effectively with the kids. Great job!
Y Parent