What to expect if I want to regularly swim laps year round in MoCo at public aquatic centers (SSRAC, MLK)

[Anonymous]

We joined our local swim club this summer and I've started swimming laps for the first time at age 40 and realize what great exercise it is. It has also been helping with some back pain I have. However it's an outdoor pool that will close mid September. I usually go when it is not crowded so have a lane to myself. I'm still pretty slow (takes me 30+ minutes to swim 20 laps) and not very coordinated or experienced so anxious about sharing a lane.

Do the public aquatic centers like SSRAC and MLK get really crowded when they are open for lap swimming? My schedule is pretty flexible so if there are less busy hours I could work around that.

[Anonymous]

Expect molluscum and plantar’s warts

[Anonymous]

I swim at a different MoCo indoor pool than the ones you mention but I imagine they are similar.

I think you just have to try different times and I find that it also varies by time of year. Sometimes there is a sweet spot about 30/45 mins after the early lap swim opens when you can usually get a lane when the folks who get there at opening are getting out.

Generally if I go during weekday lap swim times (either in the 6-9am timeframe before work or on a lunch break), I often can get my own lane or there are openings to share with one other person.

I would just expect to have to share/split and if not it's a bonus. it's not a big deal, if someone is in there you can just ask to share and indicate that you will split it. One person swims on one side and one on the other. that way it doesn't matter what pace you are going (as opposed to circle swimming). Most people are nice about it (as they should be!). sometimes if you have your own lane, someone will jump in with you.

it's honestly rare that all lanes are full with two people. The times I find the worst are on weekends when it's also rec swim and there are just a few lap lanes. Normal lap swim isn't too bad as far as crowds.

Definitely don't be shy about trying it!! it is really a great way to start your day!

[Anonymous]

Just want to say that the Y is a good option for year round swimming. My spouse semiannually and found it much more convenient than the shrivel aquatic center, which has weird hours I think for lap swimming.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Expect molluscum and plantar’s warts

Was just coming here to say this. Plantar warts. You will get them.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I swim at a different MoCo indoor pool than the ones you mention but I imagine they are similar.

I think you just have to try different times and I find that it also varies by time of year. Sometimes there is a sweet spot about 30/45 mins after the early lap swim opens when you can usually get a lane when the folks who get there at opening are getting out.

Generally if I go during weekday lap swim times (either in the 6-9am timeframe before work or on a lunch break), I often can get my own lane or there are openings to share with one other person.

I would just expect to have to share/split and if not it's a bonus. it's not a big deal, if someone is in there you can just ask to share and indicate that you will split it. One person swims on one side and one on the other. that way it doesn't matter what pace you are going (as opposed to circle swimming). Most people are nice about it (as they should be!). sometimes if you have your own lane, someone will jump in with you.

it's honestly rare that all lanes are full with two people. The times I find the worst are on weekends when it's also rec swim and there are just a few lap lanes. Normal lap swim isn't too bad as far as crowds.

Definitely don't be shy about trying it!! it is really a great way to start your day!

Thank you! Appreciate these tips!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Expect molluscum and plantar’s warts

Was just coming here to say this. Plantar warts. You will get them.

Wear your flip flops everywhere and leave them by the of the pool.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Expect molluscum and plantar’s warts

Was just coming here to say this. Plantar warts. You will get them.

Wear your flip flops everywhere and leave them by the of the pool.

Exactly. I swim all over the place in this area and all over the world. I’ve never encountered a problem if you are careful with exposing your feet. You can also use a foot wash with an active if you want.


Re times: I find that morning around 800/900 on the week days is about the best for any pool; consistently at least. Randomly it might be busy around then

Agree re: splitting a lane. A lot of people suck at that though. Not uncommon for me to get punched in the face.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Expect molluscum and plantar’s warts

Was just coming here to say this. Plantar warts. You will get them.

Wear your flip flops everywhere and leave them by the of the pool.

Exactly. I swim all over the place in this area and all over the world. I’ve never encountered a problem if you are careful with exposing your feet. You can also use a foot wash with an active if you want.


Re times: I find that morning around 800/900 on the week days is about the best for any pool; consistently at least. Randomly it might be busy around then

Agree re: splitting a lane. A lot of people suck at that though. Not uncommon for me to get punched in the face.

Good to know!