BSS

Swimming Programs

Squad & Competitive Swimming

Confident swimmers, usually school age and up, ready for technique and fitness training.

Squad swimming is the next step once a child can swim the strokes confidently. Squads focus on refining technique, building fitness and endurance, and, for those who want it, preparing for club swimming and competition. Sessions are longer and more structured than learn to swim classes.

What to expect from squad & competitive lessons

  • Entry usually depends on being able to swim freestyle and backstroke competently.
  • Stroke correction across all four competitive strokes plus turns and starts.
  • A focus on fitness, endurance and training habits.
  • Pathways into club and competitive swimming for those who want them.

1 Swim School offering squad & competitive programs

RS

Rackley Swimming

Featured

Burleigh Waters, QLD

Rackley Swimming is one of Australia's largest learn-to-swim providers, teaching water safety and swimming skills for ov…

FAQ: Squad & Competitive Swimming

When is a child ready for squad swimming?
A child is usually ready for squad once they can swim freestyle and backstroke over a reasonable distance with reliable breathing. Squad is about refining strokes and building fitness, so confident, continuous swimming is the starting point rather than the goal.
Is squad swimming only for competitive swimmers?
No. Many swimmers join a squad purely for fitness, technique and the routine of training, with no interest in racing. Schools often run fitness or development squads alongside competitive ones, so you can choose how far you want to take it.
How often does squad training run?
It depends on the level. Development squads might train once or twice a week, while competitive squads train more often. A good coach will recommend a load that suits your swimmer rather than pushing everyone into the same schedule.

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