Swimming

Programs

Jump In. Make Waves. Find Your Place.

There's something for everyone in the water at YWCA Tulsa. From kids taking their first splash and adults training to be lifeguards to swim team and energizing aquatics classes, our pools are full of possibilities. We even offer free summer swimming opportunities for little ones. Whether you're here to learn, compete, get fit or just have fun, your next adventure starts in the water!

Two Pools. Endless Possibilities.

With two convenient Tulsa locations, YWCA Tulsa is making a splash. We're proud to offer one of the city's widest varieties of water fitness classes, along with swimming opportunities for all ages and abilities. Our members also love our well-maintained, comfortably heated pools.

Whether you're looking for a full-body workout that's easy on your joints, a refreshing lap swim or a welcoming place to build your swimming skills, we've got you covered.

Patti Johnson Wilson Center

  • 25-meter pool

  • Heated to 86°F

  • Wide lanes for lap swimming

  • Open throughout the year

East Community Center

  • 20-yard pool

  • Heated to 86–88°F

  • Wide lanes for lap swimming

  • Seasonal pool - closed for winter

Give your child the confidence and skills to enjoy the water safely. Led by trained YWCA instructors, our swimming lessons help kids of all skill levels learn essential water safety skills, develop swimming techniques and build confidence with every class. From first-time swimmers to those ready to strengthen their strokes, there's a place for every young swimmer at YWCA Tulsa!

LEVEL 1

Water Exploration/Safety

Perfect for beginners! Swimmers become comfortable and confident in the water while learning essential safety skills. Lessons introduce floating on their front and back, putting their faces underwater, practicing underwater breathing and basic arm movements. Kids also learn how to safely enter and exit the pool and use a life jacket.

LEVEL 2

Building Swimming Skills

Strong Swimmers Start Here

Ready for the next step? Swimmers build on their foundational skills as they become more independent in the water. Lessons focus on floating, gliding, rolling from front to back, treading water and swimming short distances using beginner techniques. Kids also continue practicing water safety while developing coordination and confidence.

LEVEL 3

Stroke Development

For swimmers who are already comfortable in the water and can float, glide and swim short distances independently. This level focuses on improving swimming strokes, developing stronger techniques and building endurance. Swimmers also gain confidence in deeper water as they work toward becoming stronger, more capable swimmers.

Free Beginner Summer Swim Lessons

Los Pececitos

In partnership with the American Red Cross, YWCA Tulsa offers FREE beginner swimming lessons for children ages 4–10. Led by bilingual instructors, these lessons help young swimmers build confidence, develop basic swimming techniques and learn essential water safety skills.

Program Details

  • When: June and July

  • Schedule: Two-week sessions, Monday–Thursday

  • Lessons: Eight 30-minute classes per session

  • Times: Morning and afternoon options

  • Location: East Community Center

  • Ages: 4-10

  • Cost: FREE!

Little Fishes

Every child deserves the chance to feel confident and safe in the water! With support from the American Red Cross, YWCA Tulsa offers FREE Little Fishes swimming lessons for children ages 4–12 at Lacy Park and Reed Park. Perfect for first-time swimmers, these lessons introduce basic swimming techniques and essential water safety skills in a fun, encouraging environment.

Program Details

  • When: June and July

  • Schedule: Two-week sessions

  • Lessons: Eight 20-minute classes per session

  • Times: Between 10 AM and 12 PM

  • Locations: Lacy Park and Reed Park

  • Ages: 4–12

  • Cost: FREE!

Registration details for our summer swimming programs will be announced closer to the start of the season. Check back for updates on how to sign up and secure your child's spot!

“I could see with each lesson that Rue’s confidence grew and by the end of the program he was comfortable jumping off the diving board, going down the pool slide and submerging his face under the water. It was a major life landmark.”

— Parent on Little Fish Swimming Lessons

Swim Team

All the Fun of a Swim Team. None of the Pressure.

Love swimming but not interested in competing? Our noncompetitive swim team is the perfect place to improve your technique, build endurance and connect with fellow swimmers. With supportive coaching and a focus on personal progress, you'll enjoy the motivation and camaraderie of a team without the pressure of competition.

Build skills. Make friends. Find your stride in the water!

Registration information to be provided in December.

Life Guard Training

Be Ready. Be Confident. Save Lives.

Turn your swimming skills into lifesaving skills! YWCA Tulsa's American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Course prepares you to prevent emergencies, respond quickly and confidently take action when every second counts.

Led by certified instructors, this hands-on training covers water rescues, emergency response, First Aid, CPR and AED skills. Upon successful completion, participants earn a two-year American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED certification, preparing them to take the next step toward becoming a certified lifeguard.

Location: Patti Johnson Wilson Center

Registration: Signs ups will be in the springtime.

CONTACT

YWCA Tulsa Aquatics

Hours: M-TH 6AM-8PM

Friday: 6AM-7PM

Saturday& Sunday: Closed

918-833-2761

fitness@ywcatulsa.org