Depending on the pool, there could be as few as four and as many as eight lanes. Usually there are six lanes. Lane 1 is for beginning swimmers. Ability increases with the lane number.

Find a lane that matches your general ability. You may need to move up or down a lane until you feel comfortable. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to ask the coach on deck.

Swimmers swim in a counter-clockwise loop during the workout. If you find that you are catching up to the swimmer in front of you and would like to pass, tap the person’s foot lightly. You may switch positions when you get to the wall.

During a workout the order of swimmers may change from set to set depending on their respective skills. For example, one person could lead a sprint set, but may prefer to give the lead to someone else during a distance set. The sequence could change even within the set.

In time, you will learn the abilities of the swimmers in your lane and the workout will run smoothly.