Swimmers who have retired from competitive swimming, whether it was years ago, or in the recent past, might once again have the urge to strap on the swim caps and goggles and get back into the place they love, the water, where the West Michigan Masters Swimming program is being held in the Ford Fieldhouse at Grand Rapids Community College.
“West Michigan Masters Swimming is a group organized to allow adults to continue to improve their fitness as a swimming technique, to achieve personal and competitive fitness goals in a group setting,” explained Mike Boerman, GRCC’s Aquatics Coordinator. Many have not heard of this program, however it has been around 20 years and it’s been based at Grand Rapids Community College pool located on the third floor of the Ford Fieldhouse. In the title, the word “Masters” might scare people away, but Boerman said the program is open to everyone. To join the master’s swimming program, swimmers must be registered as a US Masters Swimmer. The cost of the program varies. The cost for 15 sessions is roughly $45 dollars, or for the entire season is $125 dollars.
Some of the swimmers are training for competition, while others swim for fun. When asked what goes on at the practices, “A lot of swimming” was Boerman’s reply. Practices are designed to help people with their own personal goals. So, while it is a group, the goal is always to achieve individual objectives. The practices are from 5:00-6:00 P.M on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Participants in the program range in age from the youngest being 18 and the oldest being 80. “Our level of participation is excellent, and has easily met our expectations.” Whether you are able to do the butterfly like Michael Phelps, or you just know how to doggy paddle or maybe just want to improve your health, the West Michigan Masters Swimming Program is a fitness option for all students.
For more information, visit http://tinyturl.com/grccswimclub.
