Which locations are providing ISR lessons?
We are providing ISR classes at the Madeira School (McLean, VA) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Chinquapin Park Rec. Center (Alexandria, VA) from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Bethesda Marriott Suites (Bethesda, MD) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Does Waterside Fitness and Swim Club have parking?
Waterside Fitness and Swim Club does not have its own parking. We advise parking on 6th Street.
Can I or the infant meet the coach before starting classes?
With the current safety protocols in place, we prefer our coaches meet with students in a class setting after enrollment. We’ll update information and protocols as the situation progresses.
What times are available for swim classes?
Madeira School (McLean, VA): 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Chinquapin Park Rec. Center (Alexandria, VA): 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Waterside Fitness and Swim Club (Washington, DC): 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Bethesda Marriott Suites (Bethesda, MD): 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Trinity Washington University Center (Washington, DC): Opening set for September 7, 2021. We’ll post information as it’s available.
What is the cost of the programs?
Pricing varies by location and program selection. To get exact pricing, simply go to our Customer Portal and follow the prompts to choose the program and location that works best for you.
Is it possible to have a makeup session for swim team practices?
YM workouts do not have makeup sessions. Due to capacity limits, it is imperative you notify us at least 24 hours prior to workouts if you are unable to attend.
How long will it take to complete the ISR program? How does tuition work?
Generally speaking, expect ISR classes to take six to eight weeks. That being said, we do not like to provide a specific timeline on how long the program will take as all students learn at different paces. Our coaches ensure your child completes the program, no matter how long it takes. We are fully committed to seeing each child master the necessary skills to self-rescue. The tuition is paid upfront with no additional costs.
How frequently do stroke/LTS students swim?
LTS students swim once a week until they gain the skills necessary for group training sessions.
What holidays do you observe?
We observe all major US holidays. For specific dates, please reference our calendar: https://weaquatics.com/calendar/.
How frequently do ISR students swim?
ISR students will swim five days a week (Monday–Friday) for ten minutes each lesson. This frequency is necessary until the student has completed his or her training, which is generally 6–8 weeks. After this time, optional maintenance lessons can be taken at intervals appropriate to the student’s age and the frequency of swimming done outside of lessons.
How long does it normally take a student to complete a program?
Swim lessons are individualized, and every swimmer progresses at their own pace. Instead of a set “graduation date,” our swim programs focus on mastering skills with confidence and consistency. Infant Swimming Resource (ISR®) Infant Swimming Resource Initial session: Typically 1 to 2 months Lessons are short and frequent (often daily, Monday–Friday) Refresher sessions are recommended periodically ISR focuses on survival skills, so completion means the child can consistently demonstrate independent floating and recovery skills. Learn-to-Swim Lessons (Ages 4+ & Adults) Most beginners show measurable progress within 8–12 weeks of consistent weekly lessons Skill mastery may take several months to a year, depending on goals Advanced stroke refinement can continue long-term Because this swim program is individualized, lessons continue until the swimmer reaches their personal goals. Group Swim Lessons Many swimmers progress through a level in 8–10 weeks Advancement depends on skill demonstration, not time spent Group programs allow steady development while maintaining clear skill benchmarks. Adaptive Swim Lessons Timelines vary based on comfort, communication style, and learning pace Progress is measured by confidence and functional skill development There is no “rush” — success is defined by safe, consistent progress. Narwhals Swim Team Ongoing program with seasonal benchmarks Swimmers typically train multiple sessions per week Advancement is based on endurance, technique, and readiness for competition This is a developmental swim program rather than a short-term course. Adult Masters Swim Ongoing fitness-based swim program Many adults see improved endurance and technique within 4–8 weeks Participation can continue indefinitely for fitness and community What Impacts How Fast a Swimmer Progresses? Consistency of attendance Age and developmental readiness Comfort level in the water Practice outside of lessons Individual learning style
What do the different age groups learn?
Every age group learns differently in swim lessons because physical development, attention span, and emotional readiness all play a role. Our swim programs are designed to match each swimmer’s stage — building safety first, then skill, then strength. 6 Months – 3 Years Infant Swimming Resource (ISR®) Infant Swimming Resource Focus: Survival & Self-Rescue Skills Infants and toddlers learn: How to roll onto their back to float How to maintain a float and breathe How to recover independently if placed face-down in water Breath control and comfort in the water At this stage, swim lessons are short, structured, and focused entirely on water safety. Ages 4 – 6 Early Learn-to-Swim Foundations Focus: Water Confidence & Basic Skills Children in this age range learn: Submerging comfortably Independent floating (front and back) Basic kicking and arm movement Introduction to freestyle and backstroke mechanics Listening skills and pool safety rules This stage builds the bridge from survival skills to true swimming ability. Ages 7 – 12 Stroke Development & Endurance Focus: Technique & Skill Refinement Swimmers begin developing: Coordinated freestyle with side breathing Backstroke technique Introduction to breaststroke and butterfly Flip turns and streamlining Increased stamina and lap swimming Swim lessons at this level focus on strong mechanics and efficiency, not just distance. Teens (13 – 17) Focus: Advanced Technique & Conditioning Teens work on: Stroke efficiency and refinement Endurance and interval training Competitive skills (if joining team pathways) Confidence and independence in deep water Personal goal setting Many teens transition into structured team training such as the Narwhals Swim Team Adults (18+) Focus: Confidence, Technique & Fitness Adult swim lessons support: Overcoming fear or past negative experiences Learning to float and breathe comfortably Proper freestyle and backstroke technique Endurance and lap swimming Triathlon or fitness training Adults may also join structured programs like Adult Masters Swim for coach-led workouts and community support. How Skills Progress Over Time Across all ages, our swim programs follow a natural progression: Safety → Comfort → Coordination → Technique → Endurance → Performance Each swimmer advances when they demonstrate skill mastery — not simply after a set number of weeks.
What age groups do you provide instruction for?
Our ISR program is ideal for children from 6 months to 4 years old. Our Learn-To-Swim lessons are best for children at least 4 years old or who have completed the ISR program. Learn-To-Swim Lessons are aimed at individuals at least 4 years old. Adults are also welcome to our Learn-To-Swim program. No prior swimming experience is necessary. Young Masters is for children (4 or older) who have graduated from the Learn-To-Swim program.
Can a student that young really learn how to swim?
Infants and toddlers might lack the coordination and development to learn strokes, but they can learn the fundamentals of breath control, floating, and water propulsion. Young children often don’t have the self-doubt adults have, making it an ideal time for them to pick up a new skill.