Pool etiquette for lap swimmers

Swimming can be an intimidating sport.

First, you show up to the pool in one of your most vulnerable states -- nearly naked. Then, you're expected to glide effortlessly through the pool. But unless you've had stoke lessons lately, you might look more like a cat fighting through that water than Michael Phelps. And finally, there's the pressure to keep up with the 75-year-old in the lane next to you, who just keeps going and going and going.

It's certainly not the most approachable situation.

But, what you can be prepared for is the nuances of swimming pool etiquette. At least if you swim like a newbie, you don't have to act like one. Here's a quick rundown that should help you approach the water's edge with confidence (well, at least a little, Mr. Speedo.)

Choosing the right lane

• First, look for an open lane. If they're all open, ask the lifeguard where the "fast" or "slow" swimmers tend to congregate. This will ensure that you don't get in the way of any swimmers who may come after you. If the lifeguard has no advice, just pick the lane that you're more comfortable in. Some people prefer to be near the wall, while others like to be away from it.

• If all the lanes are taken, look for the swimmers who most closely match your pace. If only one person is in the lane, get their attention by crouching near the edge of the pool, or sticking your hand just below the water line. Ask if it's alright if you join them. Most swimmers will be fine with sharing the lane, but it's always nice to ask just to be sure. Also ask if they'd prefer to split the lane (one swimmer stays on the right side of the lane and the other on the left) or circle swim (all swimmers travel in a counter-clockwise rotation through the pool.) If there are already two swimmers in the pool, just assume you will circle swim.

If you're sharing a lane

• Don't stop in the middle of the pool. If you need to rest, wait until you get to the wall. Position yourself in the corner of the lane so that other swimmers can still flip turn.
• If you feel a hand touch your foot that means someone wants to pass you. Either stop briefly let them do so at the wall, or be prepared for them to swim around your left side. Do not speed up so that they cannot pass you.

• If you find that you are continually getting passed by someone in your lane, consider moving to a slower lane.
• Stick to the freestyle or other space-saving strokes. If you try to butterfly or breaststroke with someone else in the lane, you're likely to hit your lane partner. Not a good way to make friends. If you want to swim with a different stroke, try to hit the pool at odd hours when there is less of a crowd.

Outside the pool

• If you have a legitimate question, ask the lifeguard. Otherwise leave him or her alone. You don't want to distract the lifeguard from doing his or her job.
• It's OK to talk with other swimmers around the edge of the pool, but don't be too noisy and loud since the noise will be magnified. You don't want to disturb other swimmers or the lifeguard.
• Avoid talking to swimmers while they're in the pool. You may be disrupting their workout.

Did I forget anything?

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