Adult Swimming Classes
If you are unsure of the correct level for you, please call 403.210.7832 to schedule a swim assessment.
Aquatic Programs
New swim program FAQs
The Canadian Red Cross announced it is winding down its swim and lifeguard programming to direct more attention to surging humanitarian demands in other areas – such as disaster and pandemic response, opioid harm reduction and caregiving for seniors.
We currently do not have a set date for our transition. We hope to offer Red Cross swim lessons through 2022, and transition to the Lifesaving Society's Swim for Life lessons in early 2023. All up-to-date information will be posted on our website.
Check out this chart to determine which Swim for Life level to register your child in next.
We are excited to continue our First Aid programs through the Red Cross and do not have plans to switch organizations.
It's never too late to learn to swim
Whether you're most at home when you're in the water, or you're scared to even dip your baby toe, the University of Calgary Aquatic Centre is the place to find programs to help meet your swimming goals.
Adult lessons are generally held on Saturday mornings, as well as Monday and Wednesday nights in the fall, winter and spring. Pool temperature is held at about 80-82 degrees Fahrenheit. These lessons are only available to adults.
Looking for kids swimming lessons? Click here.
View the public swim schedule here.
Adult Swim Basics 1
Increase your comfort level and confidence in the water through floats, glides, kicking and swimming. Work with your Water Safety Instructor to set goals and develop your swimming skills. This class offers an introduction to swimming with a focus on front swim.
Adult Swim Basics 2
Work with your Water Safety Instructor to set goals to develop your swimming skills. This course focuses on developing the front and back crawl, establishing comfort in deep water, and increasing the swimming distance. Recommended that Swim Basics level 1 is completed before registering in this level.
Adult Swim Strokes
Develop one or more swimming strokes, working toward proficiency and increased endurance. Work with your Water Safety Instructor to choose the strokes and set your goals and priorities. If you are interested in developing your strokes so that you can increase your fitness and endurance, this is the ideal course for you. Red Cross Swim Strokes is for people 15 and older, who have experience swimming in deep water. If you are unsure if this is the correct level for you, please call 403.210.7832 to schedule a swim assessment.
Adult Swim Workout
Do you want to challenge your current aquatic skills? Join the Red Cross Swim Workout class and learn techniques to bring your strokes to the next level. All participants must be able to swim 400 metres comfortably, be comfortable in deep water, and be able to perform front crawl, back crawl and breaststroke. If you are unsure if this class is for you, call 403.210.7832.
Adult Private Swim Lessons
Working with a certified Water Safety Instructor, adult swimmers can work on skills in the Red Cross Swim Basics, Swim Strokes, or Sport Program. Whether you are looking for advancements in your workout or a little extra help, this one-on-one experience can surely provide it!
Classes are generally offered Monday and/or Wednesday nights for 30 minutes.
Learn to Float
Knowing how to float can save your life. Join us for a free learn to float class and take your first steps towards learning to swim. No previous experience is required.
Learn to Float sessions are pop-up classes that appear throughout the year. Please check back frequently for availability.
Aquatic Certification Courses
Become a Red Cross certified Lifeguard or Water Safety Instructor through courses on UCalgary campus.