Health and wellness can happen in more places than just a gym. Whether you join the swim team, swim laps, take part in a water fitness class or are just learning to swim, aquatics is an important part of the YMCA. Swimming is a life skill, great exercise and a challenging sport. The Y strives to help all ages learn how to swim, so they can stay safe around water and learn the skills needed to make swimming a lifelong pursuit for healthy living. View our various swim offerings below to see how you can get active in the water! We offer many aquatics programs to fit any lifestyle or skill level.
Swim Lessons
At the Y, we believe everyone should learn to swim, for recreation, health, and safety! YMCA Swim Lessons teach life-saving skills, help develop self-esteem, and create positive experiences that last a lifetime. We're excited to be able to offer group, private, and homeschool swimming lesson options. Choose your local branch to get started!
Pool Schedule
Find your favorite classes or try something new! Check open swim, lap lane availability, and more!
Aquatic Group Exercise
Looking to challenge yourself without stress on your joints and to have fun? Take advantage of our Aquatic Group Exercise Classes. You can gain muscle conditioning, cardiovascular endurance, and flexibility from the aerobic choreography and the resistance of the water. Ideal for all fitness levels and non-swimmers as well! Choose your local branch to get started!
Lifeguard Certification
Build a skill. Save a life.
Whether you are looking for a great summer job or career as a professional lifeguard, the YMCA is the place to begin! Through classroom activities, group discussion, online e-learning, and hands-on practice, you’ll learn the skills you need to work as a lifeguard. Our comprehensive Lifeguard and Training course includes accident prevention, lifeguarding techniques, emergency systems, and rescue skills. The course also includes CPR for the professional Rescuer with AED and First Aid.
CPR & First Aid
Learn the life-saving skills of American Heart Association CPR and First Aid at the River Valley Regional YMCA. We offer certification and recertification options. Classes are held conveniently at multiple branches throughout the year.
River Valley Rapids Swim Team
Our swim teams are dedicated to developing good swimmers and great team members. Through competitive swimming, the YMCA teaches the character virtues of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Competitive swimming teaches skills for a lifetime. Our swimmers achieve success at all levels of competition. We host a wide variety of teams with immense pride!
100 Mile Swim Challenge
Join the 100 Mile Swim Challenge Today!
This challenge welcomes all swimmers who want to improve their endurance, challenge themselves, and enjoy community support.
Complete this challenge at your own pace.
- Technique is not a priority.
- Track your miles in the Swim Challenge Binder.
- Receive an etched tumbler once you complete the challenge. !
How to get to 100 miles?
- Length = one side of the pool or 25 yards
- Lap = Down and back or 50 yards
- 1 mile = 72 lengths or 36 laps (1760 yards)
- 100 miles = 176,000 yards or 3,600 laps
Members: $40 Non-Members: $60 (must also purchase a day pass)
Questions? Contact Jamie at jamiet@rvrymca.org or call 570-748-6727 ext. 811
Kids 50-Mile Challenge
Join the Challenge!
Fun and fitness for young swimmers up to age 16.
Challenge your child to swim 50 miles this YEAR!! January 1 - December 31, 2026
Complete the challenge and earn an embroidered towel.
Members: $25 Non-Members; $50 (must pay daily guest fee)
Questions? Contact Jamie at jamiet@rvrymca.org or call 570-748-6727 ext. 811