YMCA Louisville members splashing in pool
YMCA Louisville members swimming for swim tests

Swim Testing

Research shows that 75% of beginner-swimmer drowning injuries happen in the shallow end. Swim testing is a great way to improve children's swim skills, but also ensure their safety.

All children (members and guests) ages 7-13 require a swim test. An optional swim test is available for children ages 5 and 6 upon request.

Each swim test will take less than 5 minutes to complete. Once a test has been completed, children receive a breakaway colored necklace at the front desk upon each visit. Necklaces must be returned when leaving the Y.

Locations
  • Offered at the following YMCA locations: Clark County, Downtown, Floyd County, Northeast, Norton Commons, Oldham County, Republic Bank Foundation, Southeast, and Southwest.
Schedule

Year-round. Please contact the branch for detailed scheduling.

Starting Price

Swim tests are free for members.

Age Range

5 to 13 years

YMCA Louisville members swimming for swim tests

At a Glance

Swim test criteria:

  • Jump into water that is over the head and return to the surface.
  • Swim at least 12.5 yards with a strong forward stroke.
  • Tread water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Swim to a ladder or side of the pool and exit the pool.

Swim Test Levels

  • Red Level

    Non swimmer, and must either wear a lifejacket, be within arm’s reach of a parent/guardian, or meet the height requirement designated at the pool.

  • Yellow Level

    Swim a short distance with some demonstrated skill, no tread required.

  • Green Level

    Swim 12.5 yards and tread water for 20 seconds with a strong stroke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is swim testing? How long does a test take?

Research shows that 75 percent of beginner-swimmer drowning injuries happen in the shallow end. So the swim testing is a great way to not only improve children's swim skills, but also ensure their safety.

Each swim test will take less than 5 minutes to complete. Once a test has been completed, children receive a breakaway colored necklace at the front desk upon each visit. Necklaces must be returned when leaving the Y.

Who requires a swim test?

All children (members and guests) ages 7-13 require a swim test. An optional swim test is available for children ages 5 and 6 upon request. Children enrolled in swim lessons will automatically be tested during class.

What are the age guidelines for children in YMCA pools?

Ages 4 and under: A parent or guardian, 18 years or older, must be in the water within arm’s reach at all times. Proper swim attire is required.

Ages 5-6: A parent or guardian, 18 years or older, must be on the pool deck at all times.

Ages 7-9: A parent or guardian, 18 years or older, must be present on YMCA property.

Ages 10+: Children of this age may use the pool without a parent present.

Ages 14 and up: May use the entire pool including lap lanes, warm water pools and water fitness classes.

Creating A Safe Environment

The YMCA of Greater Louisville works in partnership with families, staff and volunteers to protect children from child abuse. Learn about how we keep kids in our programs safe.

Still Need Help?

Contact Us

Related Programs

  • Swim Lessons

    The YMCA is the nation's favorite swim instructor. We teach people of all ages and from all backgrounds that water can be fun — not feared — if you...

  • Martial Arts

    Here at the YMCA, we believe that martial arts are a great way to build self-confidence, coordination and agility. We offer martial arts classes for...

  • Youth Sports

    Here at the YMCA of Greater Louisville, we ensure that our youth sports leagues' games are safe, fair and most of all, fun. Sign up for our youth...