Learn Water Safety
Strengthen Swimming Skills
Learn Advance Techniques
60%
OF KIDS WHO DROWN ARE WITHIN 10 FEET OF SAFETY
88%
OF BOATING VICTIMS WERE NOT WEARING LIFE JACKETS
UNINTENTIONAL DROWNING
IS
PREVENTABLE
THE HOUSTON YMCA HAS
1 MILLION
SWIM STUDENTS EVERY YEAR
With one of the top swim programs in the country, the Houston YMCA has a profound impact on our community
No matter your age, swimming is an activity that you can continue for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a cool summer activity to do with the family, a way to get healthy, the chance to join a team to compete, or to learn a life-saving skill, the Y offers something for everyone. Swimming teaches confidence, endurance, determination, teamwork and much more. We are committed to your safety. All YMCA aquatics programs are conducted under the supervision of certified life guards and trained instructors. We have enhanced cleaning protocols to ensure a safe environment for all.
Skills Development
The YMCA has long been America’s favorite swimming instructor. In Y swim lessons, students learn water safety skills, build stroke technique, develop skills that prevent chronic disease, decrease high blood pressure, increase cognitive well-being and foster a lifetime of physical activity. Swim lessons are available for infants, youth, teens and adults at times designed to fit your busy schedule. Group, semi-private and private options available to ensure success for each person’s learning style. Lessons are also available at select locations for children and adults with youth and adults with disabilities giving an opportunity to learn new swimming skills in a safe, fun atmosphere.
Swim Team
YMCA swim team programs focus on the development for all ages and abilities. Swimmers build strength, speed and endurance while refining their stroke technique in our swim team programs while being given a competitive swim opportunity. The Y offers a regional program with swim teams across the Houston area that embrace the Y’s core values and promotes progression and goal setting at an individual level, as well as sportsmanship and teamwork. Programs are offered year-round for individuals ages five and up.
Life Guard Certification
When you choose to become a life guard, you are taking a stand to be a lifesaver, to teach lifesaving skills and to be there to make a difference in the Greater Houston community. Whether you are looking for a fun summer job or a rewarding career, the YMCA is the place to start! Life Guard Certification at the YMCA equips individuals with life-saving capabilities through a structured certification process. If you want to make a difference at the YMCA, training is available for individuals ages 16 and up.
Drowning Elimination
The world is 71% water. Are your children 100% prepared? Drowning is the second leading cause of death in children under the age of 14 in Texas. According to the Center for Disease Control, participation in structured swimming activities is known to significantly reduce drowning risks by 88%. Teaching children how to swim and be safe around water is one of the most important life skills parents can help their children learn. The YMCA partners with apartment complexes, school districts and other community organizations to ensure that kids learn the swimming skills necessary to be safe around water.
In 2019, after observing his younger sibling’s Safety Around Water session, this young man was intrigued but hesitant to participate. With encouragement from the instructor, he joined the session and learned life-saving skills.
In 2019, after observing his younger sibling’s Safety Around Water session, this young man was intrigued but hesitant to participate. With encouragement from the instructor, he joined the session and learned life-saving skills.