how to find a PRIVATE swimming instructor

A complete guide for swimmers of any level on how to find a private swimming instructor. Save your money and time with an experienced instructor that fits your needs and goals.
By Maria Rezhylo
3x World record holder in swimming & swim school owner
Mar. 9, 2023

HOW TO FIND A PRIVATE SWIMMING INSTRUCTOR. A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE.

  • Consider your goals
    There are many reasons why people decide to learn how to swim. Some people want to get fit, while others want to compete in races. Still, others simply enjoy being in the water and what to be safe doing. No matter your goals, it’s essential to find a private swimming instructor who specializes in that area. That way, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible value for the money you paid.

    For example, if you want to learn how to swim for fitness, you should look for an instructor with experience teaching people of all fitness levels. And if you’re interested in racing, you’ll need to find an instructor who knows the ins and outs of competitive swimming and is familiar with building a specific training program. By taking the time to consider your goals, you can be sure that you find the right fit for yourself.
  • Search online
    Once you know what lessons you are looking for, begin searching online for them and reading the reviews. Keep in mind that you have to be specific in your search. If you are looking for lessons for your kid, consider their age. Infant swim lessons and swim lessons for older kids are two completely different programs that have there your unique specifics. If you are a beginner, consider searching for beginner adult swim lessons instead of more advanced programs.

    Look into the experience of the swim instructors. You don't want to end up taking classes from teenagers who work for extra $20. Experience matters, and if you go for the cheapest option, you might end up taking classes for years without learning anything.
  • Levels of support offered
    When choosing a swimming instructor, it's important to take your skill level into account. If you're a beginner who doesn't know any water safety basics, ensure that your swimming instructor is willing to stay in the water with you. A lot of private swimming instructors don't do that for a variety of reasons, so you have to be confident that in case of an emergency, your instructor is ready to dive in.

    It's also important that your swim instructor is fit enough to jump in the water and show you the right technique. When paying for private swim lessons, you want to maximize all the benefits of personal coaching.
  • Check certifications
    People often choose an instructor based on price or convenience without considering whether or not the instructor is qualified. Don't make that mistake - take the time to find a qualified instructor. One of the most important factors to consider is whether or not the instructor is certified. This will ensure they have the necessary training and experience to provide quality instruction.

    You want to find someone experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping their students reach their full potential. There are a lot of required certifications that go to the swimming instructor position.

    First and foremost, the instructor must have the American Red Cross CPR, First Aid, and WSI certifications. Certifications from the Red Cross ensure that the instructor has passed all the water safety & water emergency tests and they can teach people in a safe environment.

    Although it's not required, a good bonus would be the USA Swimming swim coach credentials. Each certificate from USA swimming includes different levels of experience in teaching people to swim.

    All the certifications and credentials mentioned also show that the instructor is committed to ongoing professional development and is serious about his field of work. As a result, you can be confident that you're getting the best possible instruction when you choose a certified instructor.
  • Ask around for recommendations
    The best way to find a great swimming instructor after a good internet search is to ask around. Talk to friends, family members, and co-workers who have taken swimming lessons. They'll be able to give you first-hand information about their experiences and recommend instructors in your area.

    When you're talking to people, be sure to ask about their goals for taking lessons (e.g., wanting to feel comfortable in the water, wanting to compete in races, etc.). This will help you to find an instructor who is a good match for your own goals.
  • Ask about your instructor's teaching methods
    When diving into swimming, it's essential to find an instructor whose teaching technique aligns with your learning style. As a swim instructor, I believe that it is important to adapt my approach to each student. No two students are the same, and what works for one may not work for another. Research different instructors in your area and find one whose approach best matches your needs.

    Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask your potential instructor about their teaching style before you commit to lessons. It's vital that you feel comfortable with their method for you to reap the benefits of the swim classes fully.

    A good instructor is passionate about his job. They will be more than happy to answer any questions about swimming and the lessons!
  • Ask to observe one of your instructor's lessons
    It can be helpful to watch your swimming instructor's work before you start your classes. This gives you a chance to see how they structure their swim lessons and to get an idea of what your instructor's existing clients mastered in the water. It can also be helpful to observe different teaching styles and to see how the instructor interacts with the swimmers.

    Are they empathetic? Attentive? Do they give clear instructions?

    All of these checkpoints are important in order to be fully comfortable under their guidance. Asking your swimming instructor to watch one of theirs lessons is a great way to get to know each other and get started. Many instructors are happy to do this, as it provides them with the valuable feedback on the effectiveness of their swim program.

Benefits of hiring a private swimming instructor

Swimming is a skill that can be difficult to master on your own. It requires a certain amount of coordination and physical strength, and it can be challenging to stay afloat and swim strokes if you don't have the proper technique. That's why it's crucial to find a swimming instructor who can help you learn the basics and build your confidence in the water. However, good instructors can be hard to find on the market.

Many instructors run large swimming groups that tend to bring poor results due to the amount of attention each student gets in the class. That's why private swimming instructors have become a hot commodity in recent years, and everyone is either looking for one or wants to become one. Many sports clubs are constantly looking to fill out swim instructor positions, but they do a very superficial job of checking instructors' credentials, knowledge, and skills.

Today's market is overloaded with various options, and sometimes it's hard to make the right choice.


That's why I put together my simple guide on how to find a private swimming instructor. You don't have to navigate the world of aquatics blindfolded.

My guide is a simple yet very effective tool for making a throughout the search for a good swimming instructor. If you follow all the steps, you won't be dissatisfied with your swimming lessons, nor will you waste any money, time, or effort. You'll find a perfect fit for your goals and needs, but more importantly - you'll find a mentor who will teach all the things related to swimming.
how to find a private swimming instructor

Private swimming instructor experience

As a former professional swimmer, I spent many hours at the swimming pools of different countries. So trust me when I tell you that I saw a lot of unqualified swimming instructors run private and group swim lessons at almost every pool I've been to.

Nothing breaks my heart more than an instructor who gives clients 0 value, knowledge, and skills they paid for.


And I am sure many of you can relate to that: attending swimming classes for years without seeing any results. How can you even believe yourself hard enough to learn to swim after that? Many people get discouraged by the sum of time, money, and effort they put in, so they quit swimming lessons. Honestly, can't blame them.

I would quit, too if it weren't for a very good swim coach that taught me how to swim almost 20 years ago. He had an enormous passion and love for this sport, and he passed it all to me. I am lucky to have met him when I was a child. My parents didn't have any internet to find a swim instructor online and read the reviews. They didn't even know what to look for in the swimming coach.

Today, I teach people how to swim. I believe it's important to give back to the community and share my industry knowledge. A good swimming instructor can make or break your perception of the aquatics world. Don't waste your time and money! Follow my guide and set yourself up for success in the water.