We Get This Question the MOST

The question we most often get at Old City Swim School is: How long does it take to learn to swim? At Old City Swim School, we follow the “SwimAmerica” model for teaching both children and adults to swim. SwimAmerica, founded and developed by the American Swimming Coaches Association, is set up to be a […]

Why It’s NOT Okay to Hold Your Breath (Or Nose!)

Proper exhalation while swimming is a vital skill for two reasons: 1) it’s how we teach you to keep water out of the nose while you are on your back whether it be floating, flutter kicking, or learning backstroke, and 2) it’s how swimmers release air in preparation to take a breath. Ultimately swimming is […]

Deep-dive into the Infamous Beginner’s “Bob”

What exactly is a “slow and controlled bob?” Developing and maintaining a correct breathing pattern is the first fundamental in teaching anyone how to properly swim. In Kids Level 1 and Adult Beginners we focus exclusively on teaching how to breathe underwater. In order to pass Level 1, your child must be able to easily […]

“Water Independence” for everyone

Water independence is a foundational swim skill and one that is woven into Old City Swim School’s program across all levels, whether you’re a child or an adult. Water independence can be learned by anyone of any age or ability. Water independence is foremost a safety issue. When a swimmer feels confident and comfortable being independent […]

How to prepare your child for swim lesson success

In order to be successful in Old City’s Learn-to-Swim program, your child must be comfortable independently getting in the pool with their designated coach without a parent nearby and demonstrate a willingness to try new things from their coach. Our goal is to teach your child how to swim and ensure they have fun along [...]

Is it okay for my child to wear puddle jumpers or water wings in the pool?

We are often asked by parents if it’s okay for their children to wear puddle jumpers, water wings, or flotation devices at the pool. At Old City Swim School, water safety is something we take very seriously – and emphasize with students at every lesson. We want to make sure you are also equipped with […]

Learning to swim in the “sweet spot”

Watch our Sweet Spot Video! One skill we teach at Old City Swim School when preparing both youth and adult swimmers to learn freestyle is the sweet spot. The sweet spot builds on the flutter kick position. The sweet spot drill allows a swimmer to focus on using their body to balance in the water […]

Revisiting the Sweet Spot

Why is the Sweet Spot SOOOOO important and why do we teach it before teaching swimming with arms? Because the Sweet Spot is the key that unlocks swimming efficiency. Swimming efficiency is a competitive advantage for athletes and a survival strategy for the rest of us. Efficiency in the water is not about having the […]

How to Feel Like a Legit Swim Parent Pro at Lesson #1

At Old City Swim School, we want everyone to feel like a legit pro from their very first lesson. From the “secret code” required with the security guard when entering campus (psst… briefly stop your car, wave, smile, and then turn right and continue on once the guard waves back) to where you as the […]

Rash Guards are Great…Just not at Swim Lessons

When it comes to swimwear less is more when learning to swim. The popular baggy surfer style board shorts, loose fitting rash guard shirts, and tutu-inspired swimsuits may be fashionable but are NOT functional when it comes to lesson time. Instead, outfit your child in a snug fitting ‘racing style’ swimsuit for lesson time. Anything that […]

Skin dryness and irritation: skincare tips for swimmers

Rapid changes in temperature and daily routines can take a toll on skin. With the shift from summer to fall, temperature and humidity drop more quickly, the skin has to work harder to maintain hydration. When the protective skin barrier is disrupted during a transitional period, it may be more susceptible to inflammation and irritation. […]