Aquatics at the YMCA
Aquatics Programs
At the YMCA, we believe everyone should feel confident, strong, and safe in the water—regardless of age or skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer aiming to refine your technique, a parent looking for swim lessons for your child, or someone seeking the therapeutic benefits of Aquafit for recovery or fitness, we offer a diverse range of programs designed with you in mind.
Whatever your goals—building confidence, improving endurance, staying active, or simply enjoying time in the water—we’re here to help you take that next step. Come explore our programs and find the one that fits your lifestyle, your schedule, and your aspirations.
Drop-In Aquatics Programs
Adult Lane Swim
Adult Lane Swim is for those who want to swim continuous lengths at their own pace. Lane swimming provides great cardiovascular exercise and improved muscle strength without stressing your joints. Swimming uses all the muscles in the body so whether you swim a gentle breaststroke or a butterfly, you will get a full body workout during Adult Lane Swim.
- Requirement(s): Available to those 16 years of age or older.
- Cost: Adult Lane Swim is included in a YMCA membership. Community members can access Adult Open Swim through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Adult Masters
The Adult Masters program supports and encourages adult swimmers of all abilities while providing an opportunity for them to challenge themselves in a recreational capacity. The emphasis of this program is on the fitness and social side of adult swimming but the structured program will be intense enough to push you outside of your comfort zone.
- Requirement(s): Available to those 16 years of age or older.
- Cost: Community members can access Adult Masters through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Adult Open Swim
Adult Open Swim times are for those looking to improve their cardiovascular fitness and muscle tone, or for those that simply want to have some fun in the water! All sessions are supervised by a YMCA certified lifeguard.
- Requirement(s): Available to those 16 years of age or older.
- Cost: Adult Open Swim is included in a YMCA membership. Community members can access Adult Open Swim through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Family Swim
Family Swim is an unstructured activity that lets the entire family stay active and have fun together. The sessions add variety, cardiovascular fitness, and fun to your family’s fitness routine.
- Requirement(s): Children must be accompanied in the pool by a parent/caregiver 16 years or older. Maximum 1:4 parent to child ratio for children over 6 years old.
- Cost: Family Swim is included in a YMCA membership. Community members can access Family Swim through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Lane Swim
Lane Swim is for those that want to swim continuous lengths, at their own pace. Lane swimming provides great cardiovascular exercise and improved muscle strength without stressing your joints. Swimming uses all the muscles in the body so whether you swim a gentle breaststroke or a butterfly, you will get a full body workout during Lane Swim.
- Requirement(s): There are no requirements for this program.
- Cost: Adult Lane Swim is included in a YMCA membership. Community members can access Adult Open Swim through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Open Swim
Open Swim times are unstructured and can be used to improve your cardiovascular fitness and muscle tone all while having some fun in the water! A YMCA-certified lifeguard supervises all sessions.
- Requirement(s): There are no requirements for this program.
- Cost: Open Swim is included in a YMCA membership. Community members can access Open Swim through the purchase of a YMCA day pass.
Registered Programs
Gym & Swim
A registered program that has an active component plus a swimming component. Let your preschooler or child have some fun on the land and in the water.
- Requirement(s): Registration is required beforehand.
- Cost: Gym & Swim is included in YMCA Classic and Premium memberships.
Junior Lifeguard Club
An action-packed program for kids who love the water and want more than swim lessons. Building on skills they already have, they will develop and improve swimming and other aquatic skills with emphasis on: swimming skills, lifesaving skills, lifesaving knowledge, leadership and teamwork, community education, competition and personal fitness.
- Requirement(s): Ages 11-15 years; be able to swim 25 metres and tread water 2 minutes
- Cost: $126 +HST for Members; $156 +HST for Non-Members.
Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals (8-11)
This program offers a recreational introduction to lifesaving sport skills while teaching team building, fair play, ethics in sport and personal responsibility. The Fundamentals program is a five-level progression that builds on learn-to-swim skills for kids (approx. 8–12 years). Swimmer goals are individual and vary from skill development to competition.
- Requirement(s): Ages 8-11; Passed YMCA Dolphin Level & can swim 50 metres continuous
- Cost: $106 +HST for Members; Non-Members must purchase a Day Pass each day.
Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals (12-15)
This program offers a recreational introduction to lifesaving sport skills while teaching team building, fair play, ethics in sport and personal responsibility. The Fundamentals program is a five-level progression that builds on learn-to-swim skills. The Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals program for ages 12-15 transitions athletes through the fundamentals into Being Active for Life, Learning to Train and preparing them to Learn to Compete. Swimmer goals are individual and vary from skill development to competition.
- Requirement(s): Ages 12-15; Passed YMCA Dolphin Level & can swim 50 metres continuous
- Cost: $126 +HST for Members; Non-Members must purchase a Day Pass each day.
Specialty Programs
Aqua Sports & Games Program
The Aqua Sport & Games programs allow your 3-5-year-olds and 6-12-year-olds enjoy playing in the pool with YMCA staff. Each session includes organized games and play time.
- Requirement(s): There are no prerequisites for this program.
Barracudas
The Barracudas program focuses on fitness, stroke improvement, and building endurance in a fun, motivating atmosphere.
- Requirement(s): Participants must possess Star 3 certification.
Private Swim Lessons
One-on-one or semi-private swim lessons are a great way to sharpen your skill level in the water by training with friendly, qualified aquatics professionals. Participants in this program will improve their competency, build confidence and have fun!
- Requirement(s): There are no prerequisites for this program.
Synchronized Swimming
Swimmers will be introduced to flexibility, figures, routines and more through the Swim Synchro & Trillium programs. Make new friends, have fun and gain badges. Please wear hair tied back. Nose plugs and goggles are recommended.
- Requirement(s): There are no prerequisites for this program.
Swim Supervision Policy
Our policy applies to all Open Swims, Family Swims, Special Events & Birthday Parties.
Children under 6 years of age must be directly supervised in the water by a parent/guardian, who is at least 16 years of age, at a ratio of 1:2. All children must be within arm’s reach of the guardian in the shallow end.
Children 6 to 9 years of age must be directly supervised in the water by a parent/guardian, who is at least 16 years of age, at a ratio of 1:4.
Children 10 and up are welcome to swim in the pool as appropriate to their swim ability. Children will be asked to perform the facility swim test. Those who cannot yet pass the swim test will be required to remain in the shallow end.
Lifeguarding Training and Certification Programs Become a National Lifeguard with the YMCA Lifeguard Training & Certification Program
At the YMCA you can complete your aquatics leadership courses from Bronze Medallion to National Lifeguard. The YMCA offers Lifesaving Society courses year round and require registrations. Find out what it takes to earn your qualifications to be a trained lifeguard, certified to work anywhere in Canada. Reach out to your local YMCA to find out when you can register, get certified and start your career with the Y!
Advanced Aquatics & Certifications
Junior Lifeguard Club
The Junior Lifeguard Club (JLC) offers an action-packed program for kids who love the water but want more than lessons. The Junior Lifeguard Club is for quick learners; those between levels or programs, who thrive in an energetic learning environment. Building on skills they already have, they will develop and improve swimming and other aquatic skills with emphasis on swimming skills, lifesaving skills, lifesaving knowledge, leadership and teamwork, community education, competition, and personal fitness.
- Prerequisites(s): Available to those 8 years or older. Must be able to swim at least 25m and tread water for 2 minutes.
Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals Program
The Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals program offers kids a recreational introduction to lifesaving sport skills while also giving them an opportunity to be active, promoting a healthy lifestyle. The program also teaches team building, fair play, ethics in sport and responsibility. The Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals program targets youth between the ages of 8-12 year old.
- Prerequisites(s): There are no prerequisites for this program.
Fully Funded Scholarships for Aspiring Lifeguards & Swim Instructors
Have you ever dreamed of a job that’s active, rewarding, and makes a real difference? Becoming a lifeguard or swim instructor is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to build confidence, gain life-saving skills, and become a leader in your community.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is proud to offer our Advanced Aquatic Scholarships, providing full funding for individuals just like you to earn essential certifications, including Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard, and Swim Instructor. This is your chance to turn a passion for the water into a meaningful career path.
Your Path to Becoming a Community Hero
This scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers and empower you to achieve your goals. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Are you eligible?
- You have completed or are currently working on the prerequisites for your desired course. You can review the requirements here: Bronze Medallion Prerequisites, Bronze Cross Prerequisites, National Lifeguard Prerequisites
- You live in Collingwood, Gravenhurst, Midland, Wasaga Beach, or the surrounding areas.
- You are happy to share your story! We ask recipients to sign a photo release and provide a statement after completing the program to inspire others.
- Age requirements can vary by course and location. To confirm your eligibility, please connect with us at [email protected]. We’re here to help!
This could be you if you have basic skills and a dedication to learning! Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is able to offer Advanced Aquatics Scholarships to provide full funding to individuals, just like you, to complete certifications like Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard, and Swim Instructor.
Creating Safer, Stronger Communities, Together
At the YMCA, our aquatics programs are about so much more than learning to swim. They are safe spaces where friendships blossom, confidence grows, and lasting, positive memories are made. In a region like Simcoe/Muskoka, surrounded by beautiful lakes and rivers, water safety is vital for everyone.
The past few years have highlighted a critical, nationwide shortage of lifeguards. This affects everyone in our community, limiting access to everything from life-saving swim lessons to recreational swims and therapy programs.
The YMCA is committed to being part of the solution. By training a new generation of lifeguards and swim instructors, we are working to rebuild our aquatics programs, reduce waitlists, and ensure our pools remain safe, welcoming spaces for all. When you become a certified lifeguard, you’re not just starting a job – you’re strengthening your entire community.
Your Support Makes Waves
Thanks to our caring donors and sponsors, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has already awarded dozens of Advanced Aquatics Scholarships. To learn how you can help sponsor future community heroes, please contact [email protected].
To make a donation today and help empower more individuals through this program, please click here. Every contribution helps create a safer future for all.
Ready to Make a Splash?
Take the first step toward an exciting new future. Download your application form, fill it out, and bring it to the YMCA where you plan to take your courses.