YMCA swimming lessons: new name, same game

Retired Olympic swimming champion, Nicole Livingstone has officially launched the YMCA's rebranded swimming program, 'YMCA Swimming Lessons', at the organisation's recent aquatic forum.

Speaking in support of the program, Livingstone said in a country surrounded by water, it was important that everyone learns to swim, especially our children.

She explained "whether you swim in your own pool, at the local pool, beach or river, swimming is a fantastic recreational activity, which offers a range of health and wellbeing benefits while developing great life skills.

"Swimming strokes such as freestyle and backstroke, are an important part of the sport of swimming but it's equally important to incorporate water safety and personal survival skills as well."

The YMCA has a long and proud history in Victoria, with the organisation celebrating its 160th birthday throughout 2013.

YMCA Aquatic Development Manager Liz Tesone said her organisation has been teaching people to swim for a long time and the rebrand was a reflection of customer feedback.

Tesone added "the YMCA teaches thousands of people to swim every year, from infants to adults, beginners to squad swimmers and everyone in between. Importantly, our swimming lessons have a strong focus on water safety and personal survival skills.

"Winter is a great time to start swimming lessons with the YMCA. Whether you are involved in swimming for fitness, competitive swimming, surf live saving or recreational pursuits such as water skiing, sailing, diving or surfing, the foundation of these activities begins with aquatic experiences that encompass water safety, swimming and personal survival skills.

"Your local YMCA is a great starting point to find out more about YMCA Swimming Lessons."

http://www.victoria.ymca.org.au/discover/swimming-aquatics.html