Quick Answer
Bring swimsuit, towel, goggles; eat a light meal 1-2 hours before; arrive 10 minutes early.
Wear comfortable swimwear, bring a towel and optional goggles/flip-flops. Eat lightly beforehand (not a heavy meal). Arrive early to find changing rooms and meet your instructor. Tell them about any fears or goals. No special fitness required—just come as you are!
What to Bring (Checklist)
✓ Swimsuit (Essential)
Comfortable fit, not too loose or tight. One-piece or swim trunks. Avoid baggy shorts—they create drag and make learning harder.
✓ Towel (Essential)
Large enough to dry off comfortably. Some pools provide them, but bring your own to be safe.
✓ Goggles (Recommended)
Helps you see underwater and protects eyes from chlorine. Not essential for first lesson, but very helpful.
✓ Flip-Flops (Optional)
For hygiene and comfort around poolside and changing rooms.
✓ Water Bottle (Recommended)
You'll dehydrate while swimming—bring water to sip between exercises.
Pre-Lesson Preparation
- Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before: Banana, toast, yogurt. Avoid heavy meals that cause discomfort.
- Arrive 10 minutes early: Find changing rooms, lockers, and meet your instructor without rushing.
- Use the bathroom beforehand: You won't want to interrupt your lesson.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Easy to remove over your swimsuit.
- Hydrate before and after: Drink water before you arrive and after the lesson.
- Remove jewelry: Watches, rings, necklaces can get damaged or lost.
What to Tell Your Instructor
- Your experience level: Never swam? Can float? Be honest—no judgment.
- Any fears or anxieties: Fear of deep water, putting face in, etc.
- Medical conditions: Asthma, ear infections, heart conditions, recent injuries.
- Your goals: Learn basics, overcome fear, train for triathlon, etc.
- Questions or concerns: Don't hold back—good instructors want to know.
Mental Preparation
- Expect to feel nervous—it's normal for adult beginners
- You'll start in shallow water where you can stand comfortably
- Your instructor won't push you into anything you're not ready for
- Progress might feel slow—that's okay and completely normal
- Everyone was a beginner once—including Olympic swimmers
The Bottom Line
Pack your swimsuit, towel, and goggles. Eat lightly 1-2 hours before. Arrive 10 minutes early. Be honest with your instructor about your experience and fears. You're ready!