Is there a "right" and "wrong" way to lap swim?

Question

I need fitness credits for school, and I saw that I could get them through lap swimming. Sounds fun and healthy. But, I've never done lap swimming, and while I can definitely stay afloat, I'm probably not swimming exactly "right" because I haven't been in a swimming class since I was 10 years old.

So basically, my question is, is there a "right" and a "wrong" way to lap swim? Should I take a brush up swimming class first (they're offered, but I'd rather not pay for them) or will I be okay with my own fairly amateur swimming?

Answer 1

whats lap swimming. is it like lap dancing. where you sit on my lap faceing me flapping ya hands up and down like a maniac? is that what you call "lap swimming"? is this a new erotic trend that you kinds are into these days?

you kids i tell ya..u are sumthin else!

Answer 2

There's no "wrong" way of lap swimming, you just swim back and forth. There are unofficial rules of etiquette with lap swimming though. Usually there are different lanes tailored for the faster swimmers or the slower swimmers. Most lap swimming requires you to swim in a circle pattern where you stay on one side of the lane in one direction and the other side going back. It's real easy to get used to. You can also split the lanes if you ask the person sharing the lane with you. You can learn all about it here, it's pretty interesting.

Answer 3

In general there's no right or wrong way to swim laps.  If you're in your own lane, knock yourself out.  If you're sharing, keep to the right and if the other people in the lane are on your heels allow them to pass.  A swimming class would be helpful, but probably unnecessary.

Answer 4

Same as mr Awesome, but in Australia stay on the left.

Answer 5

For lap swimming the slower swimmers are in the lanes that are closest to the side, lanes 1 and 2.  Faster swimmers are in the higher lanes.  The circle swim you go down on the left and back on the right, it is only 1 direction.  You will be fine with the ability that you have.  Do some kicking on a kickboard.  Practice, practice, practice

Answer 6

I'd swim in the direction of the lane, not across it.