What is Masters Swimming ?

Masters swimming began in the USA in the 1970s when some formerly 'elite' swimmers organised a competition for adult swimmers. The sport has now spread all over the world.But although there are World Championships at the top end, the sport remains one in which all who want to compete can do so.  Contrary to popular belief, Masters swimming is not just for ‘old fogeys’ or retired ex-competitive swimmers! It encompasses the whole range of ability from swimming for fitness to highly organised competitive swimming.

To qualify as a competitive 'master' a swimmer needs to be over 25 years of age, however there are an increasing number of competitions for younger adults between the ages of 19 & 24. YCBC actively encourages younger members of the club to join.

Why Masters ?

The broad objectives of Masters are better health, better fitness, and the friendship between swimmers. There is no compulsion on swimmers to compete.

Masters Swimming Opportunities at York City Baths Club.

We have a number of swimmers at a variety of different abilities and ages. The only stipulations we put on swimmers joining our Masters section is that they have above average ability in all four strokes, together with good technique and are familiar and comfortable with lane swimming. Basically you need to come and have a go, and see which lane suits you.

We swim three times a week at two different pools in the city.

Tuesday   – 19:30 till 20:30pm @ The Mount School (25m four-lane pool)
Thursday  – 20:30 till 21:30pm @ St. Peters Pool (25m six-lane pool)
Sunday     – 10:00am till 11:00am @The Mount School

Is Competition Compulsory?

No! Everyone has his or her reason for swimming, be it for health, general fitness, camaraderie, or just for fun. How far you go is up to you. A major survey of British masters swimmers showed that the majority of them rarely competed.

However, competitive masters swimmers are well catered for. There are keenly contested national and district competitions, and some county swimming associations organise masters events as well. In addition there are some 40 to 50 masters competitions organised by individual swimming clubs, held throughout the year. For those who wish to travel there are World and European Championships. Masters competitions are held under the same rules that apply in mainstream swimming, and races are as keenly contested. But there is always an informal air. Everyone who wants to take part is welcome.

Masters competitions are organised in 5-year age bands, from 25-29 and upwards -and upwards as required. The oldest age group result so far is in the 100-1-4 group! Most competitions also include a 19-24 or 20-24 group.

There are two national championships each year. The British masters championships are held in June over a long course (50-metre pool), and include the whole range of 17 recognised long course events (50, 100, and 200 metres of each stroke, 400, 800, and 1500 freestyle, and 200 and 400 individual medley. Additionally there are male, female, and mixed relays swum over 4 x 50 metres). The ASA (English) championships, normally held in October over a 25-metre course, include all of these events plus the 100 metres individual medley.

The Club can be contacted by email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or you could simply turn up to one of the sessions.

The great thing about Masters swimming is that it is one of the most accessible sports, all you need to do is turn up (and bring a costume, of course!).