Swimming Terminology

Glossary of Swimming Terms: Descriptions and Definitions of Common Swimming Terms

New swimmers and parents can find descriptions and definitions for the most common competitive swimming terms used during swim practice and during meets.

Scroll through our alphabetic list or find what you are looking for in the “Jump To:” section. Definitions are updated as we find omissions.

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Learn more about common swimming Abbreviations

Age Group

age group \ ˈāj ˌgrüp \ noun

In United States competitive swimming, a system of classification that places swimmers into divisions according to chronological age for the purpose of fair competition.
Typically organized in one- or two-year increments (e.g., 8 & under, 9–10, 11–12, 13–14, 15–18), ensuring that athletes race against peers of similar developmental stage.
Provides structured opportunities for young swimmers to compete at appropriate levels, from local meets through regional, state, and national events.
Serves as a developmental pathway by which swimmers may qualify for higher levels of competition and, with progression in skill and maturity, advance to elite or international ranks.

Example: “Her daughter swims in the 11–12 age group at the USA Swimming meet this weekend.”

Aerobic Training

aer·o·bic train·ing \ ˌer-ˈō-bik ˈtrā-niŋ \ noun

In competitive swimming, a style of conditioning focused on building endurance by swimming at a steady, moderate pace for extended periods. During aerobic work, the body uses oxygen efficiently to produce energy, which allows the swimmer to sustain effort without fatiguing quickly.
Aerobic sets often include longer swims, such as 200s, 400s, or timed swims lasting 20–30 minutes, performed at a pace that can be held consistently. Intervals are generally shorter in rest to keep the swimmer’s heart rate elevated in a training zone that promotes cardiovascular fitness.
The primary goals of aerobic training are to increase stamina, improve oxygen uptake, and develop a strong base of conditioning that supports faster training later in the season. This training is especially important for distance swimmers, but it benefits all athletes by providing the foundation for speed and recovery.
Aerobic training also improves stroke efficiency and technique because swimmers must focus on maintaining form while covering longer distances. Coaches often use aerobic sessions to reinforce habits like proper breathing, streamlining, and steady pacing.
Beyond physical benefits, aerobic training develops mental toughness and discipline, as swimmers learn to pace themselves, conserve energy, and stay focused over time.

Example: “The distance group did an aerobic training set of 8 × 400 freestyle on 6:00, holding a steady pace to build endurance.”

Anaerobic Training

an·aer·o·bic train·ing \ ˌan-ə-ˈrō-bik ˈtrā-niŋ \ noun

In competitive swimming, a form of conditioning that emphasizes short, high-intensity efforts swum at maximum or near-maximum speed. Unlike aerobic work, which depends on a steady supply of oxygen to the muscles, anaerobic training occurs when the swimmer’s demand for energy exceeds the body’s ability to deliver oxygen. As a result, the body shifts to anaerobic energy systems, which leads to the rapid buildup of lactic acid and muscular fatigue.
Anaerobic sets typically include short sprints such as 25s, 50s, or broken 100s, performed with ample rest between efforts. These workouts are designed to enhance explosive speed, raw power, and the ability to tolerate and recover from lactic acid buildup.
Essential for sprinters and middle-distance swimmers, anaerobic training prepares athletes for the demands of competitive racing where bursts of maximal effort are required. It also plays a critical role in sharpening racing skills like starts, turns, and finishes under conditions of fatigue.
While primarily focused on improving speed and strength, anaerobic training also teaches swimmers how to manage discomfort and maintain technique when the body is working beyond its aerobic limits. This mental toughness is as valuable as the physical conditioning it provides.

Example: “The coach ran an anaerobic training set of 10 × 50 meters all-out on 2:00, forcing the swimmers to sprint at race pace and build lactic tolerance.”

Anchor

an·chor \ ˈaŋ-kər \ noun

In competitive swimming, the final swimmer in a relay team, responsible for completing the last leg of the race. This position is often decisive, as the outcome of the relay may hinge on the anchor’s performance.
The anchor typically swims freestyle, both in freestyle relays and in medley relays, where the order of strokes is backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and freestyle. The freestyle anchor leg is the last and most critical segment.
Coaches strategically assign the anchor position to the fastest or most reliable swimmer, someone capable of holding a lead under pressure or closing a gap against opponents.
Beyond speed, the role requires composure, mental toughness, and strong finishing ability, as the anchor frequently competes in high-stakes scenarios such as championship finals or record attempts.
In swim culture, “anchor” may also be used metaphorically to describe any athlete or teammate who reliably delivers strong performances at crucial moments.

Example: “The team’s fastest freestyler was chosen as the anchor to secure the win in the 400 free relay.”

Announcer

an·nounc·er \ ə-ˈnau̇n-sər \ noun

An official or volunteer at a swim meet whose primary duty is to make public announcements over the loudspeaker system to ensure the smooth operation of the event.
Responsibilities include calling swimmers to report for their races, directing them to the Clerk of Course, and relaying important instructions to athletes, coaches, and spectators.
The announcer also communicates schedule updates, heat and lane changes, safety reminders, and general information that keeps the meet organized and efficient.
At larger meets, the announcer may coordinate with referees, starters, and other officials to ensure that each event begins on time and that all participants are in the proper staging area.
In addition to practical duties, a skilled announcer contributes to the atmosphere of the competition, maintaining clarity, fairness, and professionalism throughout the session.

Example: “The announcer called for all swimmers in the 11–12 boys 100 freestyle to report to the Clerk of Course.”

Ascend

as·cend \ ə-ˈsend \ verb

In swimming, a training or pacing strategy in which swimmers begin a set at a faster speed and then deliberately slow their pace across successive repeats or intervals.
Serves as the opposite of descend, where the goal is to swim progressively faster. In an ascend set, the swimmer intentionally decreases speed in a controlled manner while maintaining stroke efficiency.
Used in training to improve endurance, fatigue management, and pacing awareness, challenging swimmers to sustain proper technique even as the body tires after a strong start.
Coaches may employ ascending sets to simulate the demands of certain events where an initial burst of speed is required, followed by steady maintenance of form.
While not commonly used as a race-day strategy, ascending efforts may be integrated into practice to balance workloads, test pacing ranges, or refine technique under fatigue.

Example: “The practice included an ascend set of 4 × 200 meters, each one swum slightly slower than the previous to focus on endurance and form.”s, emphasizing the ability to maintain technique and effort levels despite increasing fatigue.

Base Training

base train·ing \ ˈbās ˈtrā-niŋ \ noun

A foundational phase of swim training, typically occurring in the early and middle portions of the season, where the emphasis is on aerobic conditioning, endurance, and general strength development.
Provides the fitness platform upon which higher-intensity training is later built, ensuring swimmers have the stamina to handle anaerobic and race-pace work in subsequent phases.
Workouts during base training often consist of longer intervals, steady aerobic sets, and dryland strength training, with a focus on technique refinement and efficiency.
This period is essential for developing cardiovascular capacity, muscular endurance, and consistent training habits that support peak performance later in the competitive cycle.
By establishing a strong aerobic and strength base, swimmers reduce injury risk and increase their ability to recover quickly from more demanding race-specific sets.

Example: “The team spent the first six weeks of base training doing long aerobic sets and dryland work to prepare for race season.”

Best Average

best av·er·age \ ˈbest ˈav-rɪj \ noun

A type of swim training set in which the swimmer attempts to complete each repeat at the fastest pace they can sustain evenly across the entire set.
Distinguished from an all-out effort, the emphasis is on consistency — maintaining nearly identical times on every repetition.
Used to develop endurance at race pace, reinforce stroke efficiency under fatigue, and train the swimmer’s ability to sustain speed.

Example: “The coach assigned 8 × 100s freestyle on 2:00, holding best average.”

Block(s) | Starting Block

block \ ˈbläk \ noun

In competitive swimming, a raised platform located at the head of each lane from which swimmers dive into the pool at the start of a race. Each lane has one block, typically marked with the corresponding lane number.
Modern starting blocks often feature an adjustable wedge, or back plate, which allows swimmers to adopt a track start position and customize their stance for optimal power and stability.
Designed to maximize the swimmer’s explosive start, streamline entry, and reaction time, the block is one of the most critical pieces of equipment in racing.
Starting blocks may vary in style depending on the level of competition. Elite facilities often use blocks with enhanced grips and track wedges, while smaller or older pools may have simpler, flat platforms.
The rules governing starts from blocks are overseen by organizations such as FINA and USA Swimming, ensuring uniformity and safety in competitive settings.

Example: “She adjusted the wedge on the starting block before her 100 freestyle race to set up for a powerful track start.”

Bouy | Pool Bouy

buoy \ ˈbü-ē, ˈbȯi \ noun

In swimming, a training aid made of lightweight, buoyant material such as foam or inflatable plastic, designed to support part of the body and assist with stroke development.
Most commonly shaped like a figure-eight or cylinder, a pull buoy is placed between the swimmer’s thighs or ankles to provide flotation for the lower body. This allows the legs to remain still while the swimmer focuses on upper-body technique, arm strength, and stroke efficiency.
Pull buoys encourage proper body alignment, help reduce drag, and isolate muscle groups, making them a versatile tool for both beginners learning stroke mechanics and advanced swimmers refining technique.
In addition to improving efficiency, using a buoy can develop muscular endurance in the arms, shoulders, and core by removing the contribution of the kick.
Pull buoys may also be paired with paddles or snorkels in practice sets to create a comprehensive technique and strength workout.

Example: “The coach gave the group a buoy set of 6 × 200 freestyle with pull buoys to work on arm strength and body position.”

Build

build \ ˈbild \ verb

In competitive swimming, an instruction or strategy in which the swimmer gradually increases speed or effort over the course of a swim, repeat, or race.
Used primarily in middle-distance and distance events, building allows athletes to start at a controlled pace, conserve energy early, and then accelerate progressively toward the finish.
The build strategy trains swimmers to manage pacing, delay fatigue, and finish races with greater strength, often producing faster overall times.
In practice, “build” is applied within single repeats (e.g., a 200 swum with each 50 slightly faster) or across entire sets, helping swimmers learn how to control effort and recognize their body’s response at different intensities.
Coaches incorporate build sets to reinforce discipline, improve awareness of pacing, and prepare swimmers for competition scenarios where controlled acceleration is essential.

Example: “The coach assigned 4 × 200 freestyle build, with each 50 gradually faster to practice race pacing.”

Understanding the Build Concept in Swim Sets

This video from Whiteboard Wednesday outlines how to structure effective swim workouts, including concepts like pacing, progressive intensity, and endurance—core elements of the “build” approach. It explains how sets can be designed to start at a moderate pace and increase effort or speed over time, reinforcing the idea of gradually accelerating within a set.

Video courtesy of Whiteboard Wednesday on YouTube.

Cap | Swim Cap

cap \ ˈkap \ noun

A piece of headgear worn by swimmers in both training and competition, designed to fit snugly over the head.
Primarily used to improve hydrodynamics, as the smooth surface of the cap reduces drag, helping swimmers move more efficiently through the water.
Serves the practical purpose of managing hair, keeping it out of the swimmer’s face and reducing water absorption, which can weigh swimmers down.
Functions as a tool of identification in meets, as teams or clubs often use caps with distinct colors, logos, or designs to make swimmers easily recognizable to spectators and officials.
Typically manufactured from materials such as latex, silicone, or lycra, swim caps stretch to create a secure fit that is both comfortable and durable, suitable for extended wear.
Beyond performance, caps also protect hair from chlorine and add to the overall uniformity and professionalism of competitive swimming.

Example: “She adjusted her silicone cap before the 100 freestyle, making sure no hair was sticking out to reduce drag.”

How to Properly Put on a Swim Cap

This video demonstrates a quick and effective way to put on a swim cap, covering techniques to reduce drag, protect hair, and ensure comfort during both training and competition.

Video courtesy of SwimLifeGuru on YouTube.

Catch | Catch Phase

catch \ ˈkach \ noun

In swimming, the initial phase of the arm stroke where the hand and forearm first engage with the water to begin propulsion.
During the catch, the swimmer positions the hand and forearm to “grip” the water, creating resistance against which the body can be driven forward.
Proper catch technique is essential for maximizing efficiency, as it sets up the remainder of the pull and determines how effectively power is transferred through the stroke.
A strong catch phase requires coordination, strength, and precise mechanics, often taught through drills such as sculling, fingertip drag, or early vertical forearm (EVF) practice.
The catch occurs in all four competitive strokes—freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly—though the angle and motion vary depending on stroke mechanics.

Example: “Her freestyle improved after focusing on a high-elbow catch to grab more water at the start of each stroke.”

Watch the Catch Phase in Action

This video breaks down the catch, pull, and recovery phases of freestyle. Notice how the swimmer sets the hand and forearm early in the water to “catch” effectively, creating a strong base for propulsion. A proper catch is the foundation of an efficient stroke, improving speed and reducing wasted energy.

Video created by Skills N’ Talents on YouTube.

Catch-up Drill

catch-up drill \ ˈkach-ˌəp ˈdril \ noun

A swimming drill commonly used in freestyle where one arm remains extended in front of the body until the other arm completes a full stroke cycle and “catches up.”
Designed to promote balanced stroke timing, improved body alignment, and extended front-end glide, the drill helps swimmers practice patience in the water and avoid starting the next pull too early.
By exaggerating the pause of the lead arm, catch-up drill reinforces a long body line, strong core engagement, and efficient rotation. It is particularly useful for teaching beginners proper coordination and for advanced swimmers refining their stroke rhythm.
Coaches frequently use variations, such as touching the hands together in front on each cycle, or holding a kickboard in the lead hand to exaggerate extension.

Example: “During warm-up we practiced catch-up drill to work on body balance and streamline in freestyle.”

Watch the Catch-up Drill demonstrated

This video from FORM walks through how to perform the freestyle catch-up drill, highlighting the timing, alignment, and body control that make it effective. The drill helps swimmers learn rhythm, balance, and body positioning by pausing one arm in front until the other catches up.

Video courtesy of FORM.

Championship Meet

cham·pi·on·ship meet \ ˈcham-pē-ən-ˌship ˈmēt \ noun

In competitive swimming, a major event held at the culmination of a season where swimmers who have achieved qualifying standards compete for titles, recognition, and advancement opportunities.
Typically organized by governing bodies such as USA Swimming or FINA, these meets represent club, regional, state, or national levels of competition.
Events usually span several days and feature a full range of individual and relay races, including freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and the individual medley (IM), across multiple distances and age groups.
Participation requires meeting Qualifying Times, which ensures a competitive standard and limits entries to prepared athletes.
Championship meets hold significant prestige, serving as a season highlight where swimmers aim to set personal bests, earn awards, and potentially qualify for higher-level competitions such as Junior Nationals, Nationals, or international events.
Conducted under official procedures, with certified timing systems, referees, and judges, they often attract large audiences of coaches, teammates, and supporters.

Example: “After meeting the qualifying time at the regional meet, she advanced to the state championship meet.”

See also: Qualifying Time, Prelims, Finals, Heat.

Watch a Championship Meet in Action

This video by Alex Aivalotis showcases the USA Swimming 2024 Futures Championships in Richmond, Virginia. It highlights the atmosphere of a true championship meet—featuring qualifying swimmers, official timing and staging, and the intensity of high-level competition. For new swim families, it provides an inside look at how these pinnacle events are structured and what makes them so exciting.

Video courtesy of Alex Aivalotis on YouTube.

Check-in (Positive Check-in)

check-in \ ˈchek-ˌin \ noun

In competitive swimming, a procedure required at certain meets for deck-seeded events, in which a swimmer confirms their intention to compete by signing next to their name on an official sheet provided by the meet host.
The process ensures that only swimmers who are present and prepared are placed into heats and lanes, preventing empty spots in races and allowing organizers to run the meet efficiently.
Check-in is often referred to as positive check-in, since the swimmer must take affirmative action to declare readiness for the event. Failing to check in usually results in the swimmer being scratched from that race.
This requirement is most commonly applied at championship meets or larger invitational competitions, particularly for long-distance events where heat assignments are finalized on the day of racing.
The check-in process also helps meet officials organize accurate timelines, heat sheets, and seeding, improving the overall flow of the session.

Example: “Because the 500 freestyle was deck-seeded, all swimmers had to complete positive check-in before the session started.”

Circle Seeding

cir·cle seed·ing \ ˈsər-kəl ˈsē-diŋ \ noun

In competitive swimming, a method of assigning swimmers to heats and lanes in certain championship or preliminaries-finals meets, used to distribute the fastest swimmers evenly across the top heats.
Instead of placing all the fastest qualifiers in the same heat, circle seeding arranges them in a “round-about” order so that top competitors race in different lanes and heats. This method prevents the fastest swimmers from all being clumped together in preliminaries.
Typically, the top 24 swimmers are placed into the last three heats of an event. Within those heats, lane assignments are rotated so that each of the fastest seeds is given a middle lane but not directly next to all the other top swimmers.
Circle seeding creates fairer competition and more balanced heats, ensuring that swimmers have the opportunity to advance based on performance rather than being at a disadvantage from heat placement.
It is most often used at larger meets such as championship or qualifying events, where preliminary swims determine who moves on to finals.

Example: “At the championship meet, the 200 freestyle was circle seeded so that the top 24 swimmers were spread across the final three heats.”

See also: Seeding, Lane Assignment, Prelims.

To understand more about how meets are seeded, check out How Are Lane Assignments Determined In Competitive Swimming.

See What Circle Seeding Looks Like in Action

This video breaks down how swim meets assign swimmers to heats and lanes, including the circle seeding method—in which top-seeded swimmers are distributed across different heats for fair competition. It’s a great visual aid to help new swim families understand meet structure and seeding logic.

Video courtesy of Water Sports Haven on YouTube.

CJ (Chief Judge)

chief judge \ ˈchēf ˈjəj \ noun

In USA Swimming–sanctioned meets, one of the head officials responsible for supervising and coordinating other stroke and turn judges on deck.
The Chief Judge (CJ) ensures that all officials are positioned correctly, performing their assigned duties, and reporting disqualifications (DQs) in accordance with USA Swimming rules.
Acts as a communication link between the stroke and turn judges and the referee, helping maintain consistency, fairness, and professionalism in officiating.
May also be responsible for briefing officials before sessions, rotating them to different positions throughout the meet, and resolving procedural questions that arise on deck.
The presence of a CJ is especially important at championship-level meets, where accurate and uniform rule enforcement is essential to fair competition.

Example: “The CJ signaled the referee after confirming a reported disqualification from the stroke judge.”

See also: Referee, Stroke Judge (Stroke & Turn), Official.

Clerk of Course

clerk of course \ ˈklərk əv ˈkȯrs \ noun

An official at a swim meet who manages the area where swimmers report prior to their races and ensures that competitors are organized before being sent to the starting blocks.
Responsibilities include checking in swimmers, confirming heat and lane assignments, and arranging athletes in proper order so they report to their lanes on time.
The Clerk of Course works closely with the Announcer to call swimmers for upcoming events, allowing adequate time for staging and preparation.
May determine when heats need to be combined or reseeded due to scratches or absences, and reports such changes to the Starter to maintain efficient meet flow.
This role is particularly important at age group or large invitational meets, where younger swimmers need help navigating the event schedule and staging area.
By organizing athletes before each race, the Clerk of Course helps reduce confusion, maintain order, and keep the meet running smoothly and on time.

Example: “The Clerk of Course lined up the 9–10 girls for the 50 freestyle and sent them to the blocks in lane order.”

See also: Announcer, Starter, Heat.

Clinic

clin·ic \ ˈkli-nik \ noun

In competitive swimming, a specialized training session, camp, or workshop designed to improve swimmers’ skills, techniques, and overall knowledge of the sport.
Clinics are often organized by swim clubs, governing bodies, or federations and are led by experienced coaches, former elite swimmers, or subject-matter experts. They cater to athletes across a range of levels, from beginners refining basics to advanced swimmers seeking performance gains.
Key elements of a swimming clinic may include:
- Instruction and Feedback: Focused teaching on stroke mechanics, starts, turns, and race strategies, with personalized corrections.
- Drills and Technique Work: Targeted exercises to address inefficiencies and reinforce proper movement patterns.
- Video Analysis: Use of underwater and above-water footage to help swimmers see and understand their form.
- Specialized Topics: Sessions on mental preparation, nutrition, injury prevention, or strength and conditioning.
- Interactive Learning: Opportunities for participants to ask questions and engage in discussion.
Clinics also provide benefits for coaches, who may attend professional development workshops to enhance their training methods and exchange ideas with peers.
Participation in clinics allows swimmers to expand technical knowledge, build confidence, and gain exposure to new approaches, often accelerating their long-term progress in the sport.

Example: “She attended a butterfly clinic hosted by a former Olympian to improve her stroke efficiency and turns.”

See also: Drills, Technique, Training.

Closed Competition

closed com·pe·ti·tion \ ˈklōzd kəm-ˌpe-tə-ˈshən \ noun

In swimming, a meet or event restricted to participants from specific clubs, teams, or organizations, rather than being open to all eligible swimmers.
Typically used for intrasquad, dual, or league meets, where competition is limited to a defined group for the purpose of team development, friendly rivalry, or controlled scheduling.
Closed competitions often serve as practice opportunities, giving swimmers experience with meet protocols such as warm-ups, staging, and official timing without the pressure of a large invitational or championship meet.
They are also useful for clubs or leagues that want to limit meet size, streamline logistics, or emphasize internal rankings rather than broad competition.
In contrast, open competitions allow entries from a wider pool of swimmers across multiple teams or governing bodies.

Example: “The swim club hosted a closed competition limited to its age group swimmers and their partner team.”

See also: Open Competition, Intrasquad Meet, Dual Meet.

Computer Operator

This is the person responsible for operating the timing system for the meets. This job involves making sure the system is functioning, corrects errors, and ensures the data is matching the actual events of the swim meet.

Cool Down

A post-race routine of swimming laps used by swimmers to rid the body of excess lactic acid generated during a race. Also called “warm-down.”

Course

The term “course” refers to the specific layout or configuration of the pool where races or events take place. The course can vary depending on the type of competition and the regulations governing the event.

Here are the main types of courses in competitive swimming

Short Course (SC)

Also known as “25-yard” or “25-meter” pools, short course pools are typically used for competitions held during colder months or in facilities where space is limited. Short course races are conducted with swimmers swimming multiple lengths of the pool. In the United States, short course races are typically held in 25-yard (SCY) or 25-meter (SCM) pools.

Long Course (LC)

Long course pools are larger, measuring 50 meters in length. They are used for competitions during the warmer months and are the standard for international competitions like the Olympics and World Championships. Races in long course pools involve swimmers swimming the length of the pool, with fewer turns compared to short course races.

Open Water

This type of course refers to races held in natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, or oceans. Open water swimming events can vary in distance, from relatively short distances like 1-5 kilometers to ultra-long distances exceeding 10 kilometers. Swimmers navigate through the open water, often following marked courses or buoys.

Each type of course presents unique challenges and opportunities for swimmers, requiring different strategies and techniques to maximize performance. Competitive swimmers often train specifically for the type of course they will be racing in to optimize their speed, endurance, and efficiency in the water.

Deck | Pool Deck

The pool deck is the area immediately surrounding the swimming pool. It is typically a flat, non-slip surface that provides space for swimmers to prepare for races, warm up or cool down, and rest between events. On the pool deck, swimmers can also interact with coaches, receive instructions, and await their turn to compete.

Deck Entry

A Deck Entry is when a swimmer is entered into a meet or event when the swimmer did not register for the meet or event in advance. If a swimmer would like to register on the day of the meet for the meet and/or add an additional event to swim, a deck entry would need to be permitted.

The posted meet packet will tell the swimmer or coach if deck entries will be allowed for a particular meet.

Deck Seeding

Placement of a swimmer as a result of a deck entry or a practice whereby the meet is seeded based upon positive check-in requirements.

To understand more about how meets are seeded, check out How Are Lane Assignments Determined In Competitive Swimming.

Descend

In competitive swimming, “descend” refers to a structured training technique where swimmers aim to swim successive repetitions of a given distance, each one faster than the previous one. This technique is often used in interval training to improve speed, endurance, and pacing skills.

Here’s how “descend” works in competitive swimming training

Set Structure

A coach or trainer will prescribe a set of swims, usually of the same distance, to be completed with each subsequent swim getting faster. For example, a set might consist of 100-meter repeats.

Pacing Strategy

The swimmer starts the set at a controlled pace, usually slightly slower than their target race pace or maximum effort. As they progress through each repetition, they gradually increase their speed, aiming to swim faster than the previous repetition.

Purpose

Descending sets are used to help swimmers learn to pace themselves effectively and to build speed endurance. By starting conservatively and gradually increasing speed, swimmers practice maintaining technique and effort over multiple repetitions, simulating the changing demands of races.

Training Effect

This technique not only develops physical fitness but also mental toughness and race strategy. Swimmers learn to gauge their effort levels and make adjustments in real-time, which is crucial for achieving optimal performance in competitive settings.

Variations

Descending sets can vary in distance, number of repetitions, and the degree of speed change between repetitions. Coaches may also incorporate descending sets into different strokes (e.g., freestyle, butterfly) or with specific drills to target different aspects of swimming technique and fitness.

In summary, “descend” in competitive swimming refers to the methodical approach of swimming successive repetitions faster than the previous one, emphasizing improved pacing, speed endurance, and race strategy development.

Developmental Meet

A “developmental meet” in competitive swimming is a type of swim meet designed primarily for novice or younger swimmers who are beginning their competitive swimming journey. These meets focus on providing swimmers with opportunities to gain experience, improve skills, and become familiar with competitive swimming environments in a supportive and less competitive atmosphere compared to larger, more advanced meets. Developmental meets often offer a variety of events suitable for different skill levels, including shorter distances and stroke-specific events, and emphasize participation, learning, and enjoyment in the sport of swimming.

Distance

the length of the race or event in terms of meters or yards that swimmers must swim to complete the event. Distances vary widely depending on the type of event and the swimmer’s age group. For example, sprint events are typically shorter distances (e.g., 50 meters or yards) compared to middle-distance (e.g., 200 meters or yards) or long-distance events (e.g., 400 meters or yards and longer). Distance events test swimmers’ endurance, pacing strategies, and ability to maintain technique over extended periods in the water.

Dolphin Kick

Dolphin Kicking is a type of kick where the legs and feet remain together while the hips are used to create an undulating motion of the lower half of the body. The swimmer’s feet remain pointed throughout the kick to help create propulsion through the water.

This motion is most recognizable in the butterfly stroke, during underwater starts for freestyle, and during turns for both strokes.

Double Capping

This is a common practice among seasoned swimmers that prevents goggles from sliding and flipping during dives. Simply put on a cap, then your goggles, then put your racing cap over all of it. This hides the goggle straps and secures the goggles in place.

A common problem for young swimmers is goggles falling down during their event.

Drafting

A strategic technique where a swimmer positions themselves closely behind or beside another swimmer to take advantage of reduced drag and conserve energy. This technique is analogous to drafting in cycling or running, where athletes benefit from reduced wind resistance by following closely behind another competitor.

Drag Suit

A type of swimwear designed specifically to increase water resistance and thereby intensify the swimmer’s training efforts. Unlike the sleek, form-fitting swimsuits worn during races (such as tech suits), drag suits are intentionally loose-fitting and made from materials that increase drag when swimming.

Dual Meet

A “dual meet” is a swimming competition between two teams or clubs, where each team competes head-to-head in various events. Dual meets provide a more intimate and focused environment compared to larger swim meets and often feature a limited number of events and participants. They allow swimmers to gain race experience, compete against specific rivals, and contribute to team scoring and camaraderie within the swimming community.

Dry Land

“Dry land” in swimming refers to exercises, drills, and workouts conducted outside of the water, typically on land or in a designated dry area near the pool. Dry land training complements in-water swimming practice and focuses on strength, conditioning, flexibility, and technique improvement. Swimmers engage in dry land exercises to enhance overall fitness, prevent injuries, and improve performance in the water.

Early Vertical Forearm / High Elbow Pull

The swimmer reduces drag by starting the catch early and also by keeping the elbow high during the catch/pull phase.

Entry Fees

“Entry fees” are charges paid by swimmers or their clubs to participate in swim meets. These fees cover costs associated with hosting the meet, including facility rental, officials, timing equipment, and administrative expenses. Entry fees vary depending on the level and size of the meet, and swimmers typically register and pay through their swim clubs or teams.

Entry Limit

“Entry limit” refers to the maximum number of events a swimmer is allowed to enter at a particular swim meet. This limit helps manage the meet’s schedule, ensure fair participation among swimmers, and prevent overcrowding in events. Entry limits are typically set by the meet organizers and may vary based on the swimmer’s age group, skill level, or the meet’s duration.

Event

In competitive swimming, an “event” refers to a specific race or competition within a swim meet. Events are categorized by stroke (e.g., freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly) and distance (e.g., 50 meters, 100 yards) and may also include individual medley (IM) events where swimmers compete in all four strokes sequentially. Each event has its own rules, qualifying times, and scoring criteria, contributing to the overall structure and excitement of swim meets.

Exchange

During relays, one swimmer touches the wall and the next swimmer dives in…this is called the “exchange.” A swimmer can leave the blocks up to .03 of a second before the previous swimmer touches the wall. If the swimmer leaves too soon, they will be disqualified.

False Start

Leaving the starting block or moving on the block before the starter officially starts the race is termed a “false start.,” and results in a disqualification.

FINA

Established in 1908, the International Swimming Federation (FINA, Fédération Internationale de Natation) is an international management organization for swimming events. FINA sets qualifying standards and rules for aquatic sports.

FINA is now known as World Aquatics.

Fins

In the context of swimming, “fins” refer to swimming equipment worn on the feet to enhance propulsion and aid in swimming technique development. Fins are primarily used for training purposes to strengthen leg muscles, improve kicking technique, and increase swimmer’s speed and endurance in the water.

Training Fins

These are longer and stiffer, providing more resistance to strengthen leg muscles and improve kicking technique.

Short Blade Fins

These are shorter in length and often used for refining technique and increasing kicking speed.

Monofins

Used primarily in underwater swimming disciplines, monofins unite both feet into a single fin, enhancing streamline and propulsion.

Finals

The last race of an event determining the winning order of the top eight swimmers.

Flags

The string of flags seen overhead at a competition pool is used to mark the 5-meter line for backstrokers to know how close they are to the wall.

Flat Start

Refers to the start of a race, where the swimmer stands still on the blocks and waits for the starter’s signal, as opposed to a relay start via an exchange. A flat start is considerably slower than a relay start.

Flip Turn

Used in freestyle and backstroke races, where swimmers somersault before reaching the wall and push off with their feet, never touching the wall with their hands.

Flutter Kick

The rapid, up-and-down movement of the legs when swimming with certain strokes, such as the front crawl.

Fly-Over Start

A fly-over start occurs when a heat has ended and the next heat starts before the swimmers in the last heat exit the water. Fly-over starts are announced in the meet documentation.

Front Crawl

Front Crawl is the stroke most commonly used during a Freestyle swim. This is the fastest and most efficient of all the strokes and the one most typically used.

The front crawl is performed face down and the swimmer’s arms windmill forward in an alternating movement that looks like the swimmer is crawling through the water.

Guided Workout

This type of swim workout is fully personalized to your own pace, and walks you through each set.

Goggles

Eyewear worn by swimmers to protect their eyes while allowing them to see underwater. Goggles vary in fit, strap, and lens tint.

Gravity Wave

A wave in the pool caused by the bodies moving through the water. Gravity waves move down and forward from the swimmer, bounce off the bottom of the pool and return to the surface in the form of turbulence.

Gutter

The area at the side edges of the pool into which water overflows. The water entering the gutter then is re-circulated into the pool. Deep gutters catch surface waves and don’t allow them to wash back into the pool and affect the race.

This is important for swimmers in the outside lanes, typically 1 and 8. Without deep gutters, these lanes are said to have the disadvantage of more turbulence in the water.

Heat

A grouping of swimmers assembled to compete in a race. The number of heats depends upon the number of swimmers entered in that event.

Heat Award

A “heat award” is recognition given to the fastest swimmer within a specific heat of an event during a swim meet. Swimmers are typically grouped into heats based on their submitted times or seed times, with each heat containing a similar level of competition.

Heat Sheet

This is a printed document showing the events of the day’s swim meet. Here you will find the number and description of events. Swimmers are listed here by the event they will be swimming, their lane assignment, and the particular heat they will be entering.

This multipage document can usually be purchased during the day of the meet or shortly after check-in. Mobile options are sometimes available and will be at the discretion of the hosting club or school.

This is the image of a sample heat sheet for competitive swimming. A heat sheet lists the events, swimmers, and lane assignments for all swims in a given meet.

Hypoxic

Swim sets that are designed to promote breath control training. Examples may include longer underwater sets or sets that limit or have specifically timed instructions for breathing.

IMX | IM Xtreme

IMX, or IM Xtreme, is a program developed by USA Swimming to encourage and recognize versatile swimmers who excel in multiple events across different strokes and distances. Swimmers earn IMX scores by swimming a combination of specific events: 200 IM, 400 IM, and various distances of freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. The program provides benchmarks for swimmers to track their progress and achieve higher levels of recognition based on their IMX scores.

IMR | IM Ready

IMR, or IM Ready, is a program similar to IMX also developed by USA Swimming. It is designed for younger swimmers, typically aged 12 and under, to encourage participation in a variety of events and strokes. Swimmers earn IMR recognition by achieving specific time standards in designated events, showcasing their readiness and versatility in competitive swimming.

Individual Medley (IM)

An event in which the swimmer uses all four competitive strokes in the following order: butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle.

Interval Training

In swim workouts, interval training is a common method among coaches. Your interval includes both your swim and rest times for each repetition.

For example, when completing a set of 5×100 freestyle on 2:00, this means you have 2 minutes to complete each of 5, 100 freestyle swims. Let’s say your swimmer swims the 100 freestyle in 1:15, he/she would have the remaining 45 sec to rest at the wall before starting the next 100 freestyle swim in the set. This is repeated 5 times.

Invitational

An invitational swim meet is a competitive swimming event where teams or individuals are invited to participate based on specific criteria set by the meet organizers. Invitational meets often attract swimmers from multiple clubs, schools, or regions and may feature a variety of events and age groups. These meets provide opportunities for swimmers to compete against a diverse field of competitors, earn qualifying times for higher-level competitions, and showcase their skills and progress in the sport of swimming.

Jammers

A type of men’s swimsuit style where the suit legs rest mid-thigh. These are stretchy, tight, and the most commonly worn suit for competitive swimmers.

Jump

In swimming terminology, “jump” typically refers to the action of entering the water from a poolside platform or diving block to start a race or practice session. The jump is executed with the goal of entering the water smoothly and efficiently to minimize resistance and maintain momentum for the start of the swim.

Kick Board

A kick board in swimming is a buoyant, rectangular-shaped flotation device used primarily for kicking exercises during swim practice. Swimmers hold onto the kick board with their hands while kicking their legs to focus on developing leg strength, endurance, and kicking technique. Kick boards come in various sizes and materials, typically made of foam or plastic, and are widely used in swim training sessions for all ages and skill levels.

Lactate Set

Just like anaerobic sets, these are race pace sets that are intense and produce lactic acid within the muscles of the swimmer.

Lane Assignment

Lane assignment is determined by the seeding arrangement used for each meet. A lane assignment is simply what lane has been assigned to the swimmer for the specific heat of their event.

Lane Lines

The colorful, floating dividers are used to mark each swimming lane. Beyond separating the lanes they function to dissipate the surface tension of the surface water and reduce waves in a competitive pool.

Lane Timers

Timers record the swimmer’s time from starts, turns, and finishes. Each timer is provided a stopwatch and assigned a lane;
There are ideally three timers for each lane. All three times are recorded and the middle time becomes the
official time.

Lap

The Olympics defines a lap as one length of the pool. For short course pools, this can be 25 Yards or 25 Meters; For a long course pool, this is 50 Meters.

Lap Counter

A “lap counter” is a device used to help swimmers keep track of the number of laps completed during a race, particularly in long-distance events where swimmers swim multiple lengths of the pool.

Leg

This is the portion of the event that is defined by the “split” times. In an Individual Medley, the first leg is the Backstroke, while the last leg is swum Freestyle.

Long Course

A term used to describe a pool in which one length measures 50 meters. The Olympics are conducted at long-course venues. Clubs typically have a season over the spring and summer dedicated to swimming in “long course” pools.

LSC | Local Swimming Committee

LSC, or Local Swimming Committee, refers to the administrative division within USA Swimming responsible for overseeing competitive swimming activities at the local level across the United States. Each LSC represents a specific geographical region and operates under the umbrella of USA Swimming, the national governing body for the sport.

Learn more about LSC’s and find your LSC here…

Marshall

A marshall has the important task of making sure the swimming area is safe. Marshalls report to a Head Marshall who oversees the safety plan for the event.

Marshalls typically wear orange or yellow vests and are volunteers from the meet host’s organization. Marshalls enforce SafeSport regulations and keep a watchful eye to ensure your swimmer is in a safe environment.

NAGTS | National Age Group Time Standards

National Age Group Time Standards are benchmarks of performance established by national swimming organizations, such as USA Swimming in the United States, for swimmers of different age groups.

These standards set specific time goals that swimmers strive to achieve in various events, typically across different age categories ranging from 10 & under to 17-18 years old.

The times are categorized into different levels (e.g., AAAA, AAA, AA, A, B) based on increasing levels of performance, with AAAA being the fastest and B being the entry-level standard. Achieving these standards often qualifies swimmers for higher-level competitions, such as regional championships, national championships, or even international meets, depending on the governing body’s criteria.

National Age Group Time Standards provide swimmers, coaches, and parents with clear performance targets, fostering goal-setting and development in competitive swimming. They also serve as a measure of a swimmer’s progress and achievement within their age group and across their swimming career.

View the current National Age Group Time Standards…

Natatorium

A natatorium refers to an indoor swimming facility designed specifically for competitive swimming and other aquatic activities. It typically includes one or more pools that meet specific standards for length and depth required for competitive events, such as lap swimming, water polo, diving, and synchronized swimming.

Natatoriums vary in size and amenities but commonly feature spectator seating, locker rooms, timing systems, and equipment for training and competition. They provide a controlled environment for swimmers to train and compete year-round, shielding them from outdoor weather conditions.

Natatoriums are essential venues for hosting swim meets at various levels, from local competitions to national and international championships. They play a crucial role in fostering the development of swimmers by offering access to quality facilities and opportunities for competitive advancement within the sport of swimming.

Non-Conforming Time

Nonconforming Time (NT) refers to a time recorded for a swimmer during a race that does not meet the criteria for acceptance as an official time. This could occur due to various reasons such as equipment malfunction, timing errors, or disqualification during the race. NT is typically displayed in results to indicate that the time is unofficial and does not count towards official rankings or qualifications.

NT | No Time

NT is also an abbreviation used to denote “No Time” in competitive swimming. This term is used when a swimmer does not have an official time recorded for a particular event due to various reasons such as missing the race, disqualification, or other unforeseen circumstances.

NQT | National Qualifying Time

NQT stands for National Qualifying Time, which refers to the specific time standard that swimmers must achieve to qualify for national-level competitions or championships. NQTs are established by national swimming federations or governing bodies and vary depending on the event, age group, and competition level. Swimmers aim to achieve NQTs during designated qualifying periods to earn eligibility to compete at prestigious national-level events.

Negative Split

A race strategy in which a competitor swims the second half faster than the first half. For example, your swimmer swims the first leg of his/her 100 freestyle in 29 seconds and the second leg faster at 25 seconds. Typically the second leg or split is slower than the first.

Official

A judge on the deck of the pool. They are typically seen in white tops and have various stations depending on their specialty and job. They ensure the meet runs properly, safely, and fairly in accordance with USA Swimming, NCAA, or FINA rules.

Pace Clock

A pace clock is used to time swims, time rest intervals, and to keep each swimmer on pace. Pace clocks can be digital or analog. Analog clocks have two hands and are divided into 60 seconds, marked in intervals of 5, while digital pace clocks have large, illuminated numbers for ease.

PB | Personal Best

A “personal best” in swimming refers to the fastest recorded time that a swimmer has achieved in a specific event or distance. It represents an individual’s peak performance level at a given point in time and serves as a personal milestone or achievement in competitive swimming. Personal best times are significant indicators of improvement and progress for swimmers, reflecting their dedication to training, technique refinement, and overall athletic development. Coaches, swimmers, and parents often track personal best times as benchmarks of success and motivation for setting new goals and striving for continued improvement in the sport. Achieving a personal best time can be a source of pride and satisfaction for swimmers, highlighting their hard work and dedication in pursuit of excellence in competitive swimming.

Place Judge

Also called “Finish Judge.” An official stands at one end of the pool to watch the finish of each race. It is up to the Place Judge to determine the order in which the swimmers finish.

Positive Check-in

The procedure required before a swimmer swims an event in a deck-seeded meet. Sometimes the swimmer must mark their name on a list posted by the meet host.

Prelims

Short for preliminaries, which describes the round of races in which swimmers try to qualify for semifinals (or finals, in events that skip semifinals).

PreSeeded

The practice of organizing swimmers into heats based on their submitted times before the start of a swim meet. Meet organizers use the submitted times provided by swimmers or their coaches to seed (or rank) swimmers into heats with others of similar ability levels.

Preseeding ensures that swimmers compete against others of comparable speed, which promotes fair competition and allows for smoother event scheduling. This process helps to streamline the management of swim meets and ensures that races progress efficiently according to the anticipated performance levels of participating swimmers.

Psych Sheet

A list of all of the swimmers in a given meet, ranked from fastest to slowest by event. In contrast, a heat sheet lists the swimmers by event and in order by the seeding type set for that particular meet.

Pullout or Pulldown

The beginning of a breaststroke start or turn, where a swimmer is allowed one long pull down to their waist, during which a single butterfly kick is permitted, followed by a breaststroke kick.

Qualifying Times

In competitive swimming, “qualifying times” refer to predetermined performance standards that swimmers must achieve in specific events to qualify for higher-level competitions or championship meets.

These standards are set by governing bodies such as national swimming federations or international organizations like World Aquatics. Swimmers typically aim to meet or exceed these times during designated qualifying periods, which may vary depending on the level of competition and the meet’s requirements.

Qualifying times ensure that swimmers meet a minimum performance level to participate in competitive events, promoting fair competition and maintaining standards of excellence within the sport.

Reaction Time

The amount of time it takes for a swimmer to leave the blocks after the starter gives the signal.

Ready Room

This is the area where swimmers of higher-level competitions wait before swimming. Swimmers can socialize with other swimmers or engage in their own pre-race routines prior to the upcoming heats.

Recovery Phase

The fourth and final phase of a swimmer’s stroke is called the recovery phase. The recovery phase of a stroke starts when the arm exits the water and ends when the arm drops back into the water. This part of the stroke does not propel the swimmer forward in the water allowing the stroke to reset or “recover.”

Referee

A referee is a meet official who has the final authority for all decisions and questions during the meet. A referee is also responsible for overseeing the work of all other officials, and their assignments, and instructing them in their roles throughout the meet.

The referee must be thoroughly familiar with all applicable swimming rules, meet procedures, and the duties of all meet officials. Prior to a meet, the referee meets with all coaches, officials, and timers to go over the meet procedures.

Regular Seeding

Regular seeding is a method of placing swimmers in their events from slowest to fastest based on heat and lane assignment. The fastest swimmers are seeded in the last heat of an event and are assigned lanes starting with the fastest in the heat being placed in lane 4, 5, 3, 6, 2, 7, 1, and 8 respectively.

To understand more about how meets are seeded, check out How Are Lane Assignments Determined In Competitive Swimming.

Relay

A race where each team member swims a predetermined distance, collectively completing a longer race distance. Teams consist of four swimmers, each swimming an equal distance.

There are several types of relays, including freestyle relay (where each swimmer swims freestyle), medley relay (where each swimmer swims a different stroke in the order of backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and freestyle), and mixed-gender relays.

Relay events require precise coordination in relay exchanges, where swimmers tag off to the next teammate after completing their leg of the race. Relays are a dynamic and exciting aspect of swimming competitions, fostering team spirit, strategy, and camaraderie among swimmers.

Relay Start

Refers to the second, third, and fourth swimmers in a relay, where they dive in when the previous swimmer touches the wall. Relay starts are typically faster than flat starts.

Swimmers can anticipate the dive and are allowed to leave the blocks up to .03 of a second before the previous swimmer touches.

Relief Timer

When a timer needs a break, a backup or “relief timer” steps in to take over the duties of the assigned timer.

Roll

A swimmer moving on the starting blocks prior to the starting signal is called a “roll.” This results in a disqualification (DQ). Often it occurs when a swimmer tries to guess the starter’s cadence and misjudges the timing.

Runner

A runner is responsible for collecting the completed event cards and DQ forms for each race from the timers and judges. These cards and DQ forms are then delivered to the scorer’s table.

Scorer

The scorer marks the official time for each swim, records the order of finishes, and verifies the
computer results.

Scorer’s Table

This is the table where the Scorer sits and all of the information for the meet funnels through this table.

Scratch

To withdraw from an event in a swimming competition prior to the start of the event.

Seed

The swimmer’s placement in a meet or event.

To understand more about how meets are seeded, check out How Are Lane Assignments Determined In Competitive Swimming.

Seeding

The act of placing a swimmer and assigning their event, heat, and lane.

Set

This is one segment of a workout. Coaches divide the workout into sets for specific training goals. For example, 5×25 free on :45 is a set. This means that the swimmer would swim a 25 freestyle, rest at the wall until 45 seconds elapsed, and repeat that 5 times.

Set Group

A collection of different types of sets. Typically this includes a Warm-up Set, Pre-Set, Main Set, Post-Set, and a Cool Down Set.

Warm-up Set – Longer, easier swims, and drills.
Pre-Set – build-up drills and speed sets, preparing for the main set.
Main Set – This is the focused part of the workout, specific to the training goals of the day.
Post-Set – This is the final group of drills to push through before the cool down.
Cool Down Set – A very important, yet last set. Typically consists of one long, easy swim or a set of shorter, easy swims. The goal is to bring the swimmer’s heart rate down and to reduce lactic acid build-up in the muscles.

Shaving

To cut down on resistance or drag, a swimmer shaves his/her entire body before big meets. Swimmers claim a sense of slipperiness in the water that makes them faster.

Short Course

A short-course pool is either 25 yards or 25 meters in length. Short course season is the time of year, typically fall and winter, when swims are performed in the smaller-sized pools. Short course swims include more turns due to the shorter distance.

Split

The time registered by a swimmer when they finish each length of the pool or the time a relay swimmer takes to complete their leg of the race.

Sprint

Short, fast, and intense swims typically include all swims under and including 100 yards or 100 meters.

Sprinter

A swimmer who specializes in shorter distance swims, typically 100 yards or 100 meters and under.

Starter

The Starter is the only official who is in direct contact with the swimmers in such a manner that his/her actions can clearly affect the swimmer’s performance. Accordingly, this is a position that cannot be taken casually.

Starter’s Command

The command to “take your mark” when swimmers take a starting position to begin the heat. When all swimmers are stationary, the starter gives the starting signal.

Starting Signal

Beeeeep! The sound tells the swimmers to begin the race.

Stroke

A specific swimming technique or style used by swimmers to propel themselves through the water. The main strokes recognized in competitive swimming include freestyle (also known as front crawl), backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Each stroke has distinct rules and characteristics that define how swimmers move their arms and legs, breathe, and maintain body position in the water. Stroke technique is fundamental to a swimmer’s performance, with training focused on refining efficiency, speed, and endurance in each stroke. Races often feature multiple strokes, such as individual medley events that require swimmers to compete in all four strokes sequentially. Understanding and mastering stroke techniques are essential for competitive success and overall enjoyment of the sport.

Structured Workout

This is the typical swim workout, where training is broken down or divided into sets.

Submitted Time

A “submitted time” refers to the official recorded time that a swimmer achieves in a specific event during competition. This time is submitted to event organizers or meet officials either in advance of the meet entry deadline or during the registration process. Swimmers typically submit their best or most recent times in each event they wish to compete in. Submitted times are used for seeding swimmers into heats or finals based on their performance level, and they also determine eligibility for certain events or competitions based on qualifying standards set by the governing body or meet organizers. These times are crucial in managing meet logistics and ensuring fair competition by grouping swimmers of similar abilities together in races.

Swim A Thon

A swim-a-thon is a community-driven fundraising event where swimmers undertake a specific swimming challenge, such as swimming laps or covering a set distance over a designated time period, to raise funds for a charitable cause or team expenses. Participants gather pledges and donations from sponsors, often family, friends, and local businesses, based on their swimming performance during the event.

These funds support various initiatives, including charitable organizations, community projects, or team-related expenses like travel and equipment. Swim-a-thons not only serve as a means to generate financial support but also promote team unity, camaraderie, and personal development among swimmers. They encourage goal-setting, endurance building, and community engagement, highlighting the positive impact that competitive swimming can have beyond the pool by fostering social responsibility and teamwork.

Swimming Zones and Sets

White Set – Endurance Set 1 See Swimming Zone Chart for Details
Pink Set – Endurance Set 2 See Swimming Zone Chart for Details
Red Set – Endurance Set 3 See Swimming Zone Chart for Details
Blue Set – Sprint Set 1 See Swimming Zone Chart for Details
Purple Set – Sprint Set 2 See Swimming Zone Chart for Details
Rainbow Set – Includes all 5 colors, but focuses on Red.

Taper

The gradual process of resting in preparation for competition. This includes shorter training sessions with less yardage.

Swimmers typically will swim faster, shorter sets in order to rest adequately and be at their peak for the upcoming competition.

Time Standard

In competitive swimming, “time standards” refer to established benchmarks or qualifying times that swimmers must achieve in order to participate in specific competitions or events. These standards are set by governing bodies such as national swimming federations or international organizations like FINA (Fédération Internationale de Natation).

See USA Swimming Motivational Time Standards

Time Trial

A special type of race or swim session where swimmers compete individually against the clock, rather than directly against other swimmers. Time trials are organized primarily for the purpose of achieving qualifying times, setting personal bests, or evaluating a swimmer’s current performance level.

Timed Final

Timed Finals are when all heats of a particular event are swum only once during a meet, as opposed to meets where there are preliminaries and finals.

Seeding for these heats is determined by the meet host and swimmers may be seeded slowest to fastest or fastest to slowest. Once all the heats are swum, the swimmers are ranked by their times.

Timer

See Lane Timers.

Touch

The finish of the race when the swimmer’s hands “touch” the wall.

Touchpad

The electronic device in the area at the end of each pool lane where a swimmer’s time is registered and is sent to the timing system, which sends the time to the scoreboard.

Track Start

This starting position involves the swimmer placing one foot at the front of the starting block and one foot farther back on the starting block.

Turn-Over

The number of times a swimmer’s arms turn over (cycle) in a given distance or time during a race.

Unofficial Time

An “unofficial time” refers to a time recorded for a swimmer during a race that is not considered the final, official time. Instead, it serves as a preliminary or interim time recorded by the timing equipment or officials immediately after the race.

Warm-Down

A post-race routine of swimming laps used by swimmers to rid the body of excess lactic acid generated during a race. Also called “cool-down.”

Warm-Up

A pre-race routine of lap swimming designed to get the swimmers ready to race. Individual teams will have specific warm-up times and the entire team will swim in designated lanes during that period.

Typically the swimmers will allow space between themselves and swim to the outside of each lane as other swimmers are swimming opposite them on the other side of the lane.

Wedge

a starting platform innovation designed to enhance a swimmer’s launch into the water at the beginning of a race. The wedge is a raised, non-slip surface that is attached to the rear portion of the starting block. It is typically angled at approximately 10 to 18 degrees from horizontal.

Zones

“Zones” refer to regional divisions or competitions organized within certain geographic areas, primarily in the United States. These Zones are part of the structure of USA Swimming, the national governing body for the sport of swimming in the United States.

Here’s a detailed explanation of how Zones operate in competitive swimming:

Geographic Division

Zones divide the United States into 4 geographic regions or zones: Eastern, Central, Southern, and Western.

Qualification

Zones provide a pathway for swimmers to qualify for higher-level competitions such as national championships. Swimmers typically qualify for Zone meets based on their performance at local and regional meets.

Levels of Zones

Age Group Zones

These are typically organized for swimmers in younger age groups (e.g., 14 & under, 12 & under) and serve as a stepping stone for higher-level competitions.

Senior Zones

Senior Zones are for older swimmers who are not yet at the national level but are competing at a high regional level. These competitions may also serve as a qualifying meet for national championships.

Meets and Competitions

Zone Championships

Each Zone holds its own championship meet where qualified swimmers from that zone compete against each other. These championships often have qualifying times that swimmers must achieve in order to participate.

Representation

Swimmers who perform well at Zone championships may be selected to represent their Zone at higher-level competitions, such as national meets or All-Star meets.

Organization and Administration

USA Swimming

Zones are organized and governed by USA Swimming, which sets the standards and regulations for these competitions. They ensure that the competitions are fair, competitive, and accessible to swimmers across the country.

Local Swimming Committees (LSC)

Within each Zone, there are often local committees or organizations responsible for organizing meets, managing qualifications, and supporting the development of swimmers within the region.

Overall, Zones in competitive swimming provide a structured framework for competition and development within geographic regions of the United States. They are essential in nurturing young talent, fostering competitive spirit, and preparing swimmers for higher levels of competition both nationally and internationally.

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