Masters

No! In swimming, Masters simply means 18 and older.

The UVAC Masters program is not a learn-to-swim program. Swimmers should have enough endurance to swim 200-300 yards, be able to swim freestyle with rotary breathing, and be comfortable sharing a lane with one or two other swimmers of the same speed. For learn-to-swim instruction, UVAC offers private lessons and adult learn-to-swim sessions.

We don’t care how fast you are! Our team includes swimmers of all ages and abilities, including people who started where you are and have improved. Don’t let your perceived ability – or lack thereof – hold you back. You don’t need to be in fantastic shape to start Masters swimming; Masters swimming will help you get in shape. We will also provide help in reading the workouts and pace clock.

We think you’ll have more FUN! And the more you enjoy coming to the pool, the easier it will be to stay in shape, improve your skills, and achieve your long-term health and fitness goals. Your teammates will provide motivation (and friendship). Your coaches will provide interesting and challenging workouts that incorporate technique training as well as interval and endurance training.

Many triathletes are Masters swimmers, and the UVRays has many triathletes and open-water swimmers among its ranks. Training with swimmers is the best way to improve the swim portion of your triathlon. Our coaches provide technique instruction and interval training with a group. Your coaches will also watch your stroke – so important in a sport that’s heavily dependent on technique.

UVAC’s Masters swimmers range in age from 18 to 80+. We range in ability from newbie to world record holders – and everything in between. It’s a fun and encouraging group, and you’ll feel like part of the team in no time. We have all ages and abilities at all practices.

No! We’re busy adults! We offer 20 practices per week and you can come to the ones that work best for you and your life. Some swimmers come to 6 practices per week, but the average is 2.3.

No. We are not an “official” USMS team. If, however, you want to participate in USMS-sponsored pool or open-water events, you will need to join USMS.

No. Many of the UVRays like to compete (and we host a Masters swim meet each year), but you do not need to compete to be in the program. Ditto for flip turns!

A supportive atmosphere. A great workout that fits your ability level. Fun and camaraderie. Each practice includes time for warmup/warmdown. The “main set” can be technique based, endurance based, speed based, or part of a weeks-long challenge series. Total yardage for the hour will vary by ability – from ~2000 yards to 3000+ yards.

Most practices are coached, but some are not. Uncoached practices are led from in the water by an experienced member of the team. Accommodations are made for various levels of ability.

Workouts can be done without gear, but fins, pull buoy and kickboard are sometimes recommended. A limited selection of these items is available for public use. Eventually, you’ll probably want to have your own gear.

Masters is an add-on to a general UVAC membership: $341/year or $31/month. This allows you to swim at unlimited practices. You can also swim with the team on a per-practice basis: $16 Members and $17 Non-Members. For Non-Members, this fee allows access only to locker rooms, showers, and one Masters practice. It does not allow access to the rest of the facility (that would require additional purchase of a UVAC day pass).

All registration and payment is handled by the UVAC Welcome Desk: 802-296-2850 ext 0.