Masters Swim Clinic 101

When attending your first swim clinic, it’s helpful to know what to bring, what to expect from the instruction, and the general etiquette for the event. Clinics are typically focused, intensive sessions designed to improve specific skills, rather than a general practice.

What to bring

  • Swimsuit: Bring a comfortable and secure swimsuit. For women, a one-piece is common for training, while men can wear a speedo or jammers.
  • Cap and goggles: A swim cap keeps hair out of your face and can reduce drag. Goggles are essential for seeing underwater.
  • Towel and warm clothing: Have at least one towel for after your swim. A jacket or sweatshirt is also a good idea to stay warm on the pool deck.
  • Water bottle and snacks: Staying hydrated is important so bring a water bottle. Since the clinic is 3 hours, you can bring snack for energy but please ask if its okay to eat on the
  • Note-taking materials: Bringing a notepad and pen can be helpful for writing down drills and tips from the clinicians after the session.

What to expect during the clinic

  • Focused instruction: Unlike regular swim practice, a clinic focuses on specific aspects of swimming technique, like starts, turns, or a particular stroke. The coach, or clinician, will offer detailed explanations and demonstrations.
  • Drills: A large part of the clinic will involve drills designed to isolate and correct inefficiencies in your swimming. Listen closely to the coach’s instructions for each exercise.
  • Feedback: Many clinics offer personalized feedback.
  • High energy and intensity: Clinics are often fast-paced. You can expect to swim harder than you might in a normal practice, so be prepared for a good workout.
  • Q&A opportunities: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. This is your chance to learn from experienced coaches and address your specific weaknesses.

How to prepare and make the most of it

  • Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to find parking, check in, and get acclimated to the pool area.
  • Know your current ability: Be honest about your swimming strengths and weaknesses.  If needed take a rest by removing yourself from the water so you can still watch and learn while resting.
  • Listen patiently: It can feel overwhelming to receive new information and critique, but stay patient and open to the process. It takes time to master new techniques. Many of these drills and techniques you will need to take home with you and practice them.
  • Come with a specific goal: Having a clear idea of what you want to improve (e.g., your breaststroke kick or freestyle turns) will help you focus and get the most value out of the session.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment: The clinic is the perfect low-pressure environment to try a new technique or implement a piece of advice. This is your chance to experiment with new movements.