New Trier Aquatics delivers year-round swim instruction, competitive team training, and community water safety programs for residents across multiple campus locations. These services support both beginner skill building and high-level competitive performance in a structured aquatic environment.
From stroke mechanics to advanced meet preparation, New Trier Aquatics emphasizes technique, safety, and measurable progress for participants of all ages. The program is designed to align with school schedules, seasonal swim cycles, and local competition calendars.
| Program Type | Session Length | Skill Level | Typical Class Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learn to Swim | 8 weeks | Beginner to Intermediate | 6–8 swimmers |
| Stroke Development | 6 weeks | Intermediate | 8–10 swimmers |
| Competitive Squad | Season-based | Advanced | 10–20 swimmers |
| Adult Fitness Swim | Drop-in / 10-week blocks | All levels | Open lane format |
Beginner Swim Lessons and Water Safety
Progressive Skill Building for New Swimmers
Beginner groups focus on comfort, breath control, and basic propulsion through fun, structured activities. Instructors use clear progressions so that participants gain confidence with each lesson.
Water Safety Drills and Readiness
Safety routines such as safe entry, assisted back floats, and controlled exits are integrated into every beginner level. These skills provide the foundation for lifelong aquatic safety.
Coaches emphasize low student-to-instructor ratios to ensure individualized attention while maintaining a supportive group atmosphere. Families receive progress updates and home practice suggestions after each session.
Stroke Technique and Competitive Training
Refining All Four Strokes
Intermediate and advanced swimmers work on body line, rotation, and timing for freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Video analysis may be used to highlight subtle technical improvements.
Team Training and Meet Preparation
Competitive squads include goal setting, interval training, starts, turns, and race strategy tailored to each athlete. Seasonal blocks align with local high school and club swim schedules.
Facilities, Scheduling, and Accessibility
Campus Pools and Season Availability
Programs are offered across New Trier’s district pools, each designed to accommodate learn-to-swim lanes as well as competitive training zones. Schedules vary by campus and season.
Inclusive Programming and Accommodations
Adaptive swim options and modified drills support participants with diverse needs. Flexible class times and multiple weekly offerings help families integrate lessons into busy routines.
Program Commitment and Family Guidance
- Choose programs that match current skill level and goals
- Arrive early for check-in, warm up with light stretching, and bring a labeled towel and water bottle
- Communicate progress concerns and goals with coaching staff
- Follow facility rules for safety, hygiene, and appropriate attire
- Use home practice activities to reinforce skills between sessions
FAQ
Reader questions
How does the skill progression work in beginner lessons?
Participants start with basic water orientation and move through a structured sequence of buoyancy, glides, kicks, and strokes, advancing only when they demonstrate safe, consistent execution of required skills.
What equipment do swimmers need for competitive squad?
Standard competitive gear includes a swimsuit, cap, goggles, fins for drills, and a training paddle when appropriate. Some squads may also use pull buoys and snorkels for technique work.
Are adults allowed in learn-to-swim classes?
Yes, adult fitness and beginner classes are available on a scheduled basis, with modified pacing and drills that suit adult learning preferences and fitness goals.
How are makeup sessions handled during the session?
Makeup sessions are offered based on pool space and instructor availability, with advance sign-up typically required. Policies vary by campus and program type.