Groups and Group Descriptions

 

Lil Bolts (previously level I)

 

This group is for swimmers who are knowledgeable but not proficient in all four competitive strokes. The emphasis is on developing the fundamentals of the strokes, starts and turns by means of drills and games in an enjoyable atmosphere for instruction. Swimmers learn the basic rules of competitive swimming.

 

Attendance: Two practices per week are recommended

Skills Expected for Entrance into This Group:

• Ability to perform 25y swims of Freestyle and Backstroke 

• Basic Knowledge of Butterfly and Breaststroke

 

 

 

Lightning Bolts (previously Level II)

 

This practice group is designed for established swimmers with some skills refining needed. Improving stroke, start, and turn techniques will be the primary emphasis in this group. It will serve as an introduction to the highest levels of group swimming. Mild distances and endurance work will be introduced at practices. Swimmers will also begin to learn the basics of dryland movements for motor skill development, coordination, and overall improved body awareness.

 

Attendance: two to three practices per week are recommended

 

 

Skills Expected for Entrance Into This Group:

• Good Listening Skills

• Basic Skills in All 4 Strokes Basic Skills in All

• Turns

• Proficiency in Streamlines & Kicking

 

Junior Bolts (previously Level III & IV)

 

This practice group is designed for established swimmers and for Jr. High and High School age swimmers who are at an Intermediate Level of skill development, competition, and commitment to the sport.

 

Strong emphasis is placed on technique refinement with a stronger conditioning experience. General Aerobic, IM, Kick, and Sprint work is also emphasized along with introductory dryland and general body strengthening. Racing strategies and mental preparation are also introduced and built upon.

Attendance: Four practices per week are recommended Skills Expected For Entrance Into This Group:

• Proficiency in Streamlines & Kicking (including regular butterfly kicking off of walls) 8x50 Free @ 1:10

• 6x50 Kick @ 1:30

• 12x25 Swim @ :50 (4 Fly, 4 Back, 4 Breast)

 

Senior Bolts (previously Level V & VI)

 

“Senior” Level swimming begins a pronounced shift of focus from practicing to training while also maintaining an emphasis on stroke technique improvement & race strategy execution. The training focus is IM, Aerobic, and Race Pace training along with a strong emphasis on kicking. Swimmers must have the ability and desire to handle the physical demands of an advanced training regimen.

 

Attendance: Five to Six practices per week are recommended

 

 

Expectations & Requirements:

• Swimmers must complete & maintain USA Swimming’s “Safe Sport Training for Minor Athletes” (If 18 – must complete Athlete Protection Training)

• Swimmers are expected to attend designated in-season competitions

• Swimmers are expected to attend and compete in all Team Championship meets for which they qualify, including USA Sectionals and YMCA Nationals

 

Skills/Pre-Requisites Expected for Entrance Into This Group:

 

• The physical conditioning required to maintain a rigorous training regimen

• Proficiency in All 4 Strokes, All Turns including butterfly kicking off of walls

• 8x100 Free @ 1:25, 8x100 IM @ 1:40, 8x75 Kick @ 1:35, Ability to Race a 400 IM

• Possess both a willingness and ability to provide leadership daily to the group and team

 

 

Training is geared toward YMCA National/USA Sectional, Junior National Level competition and beyond. This practice group is for athletes committed to reaching their full swimming potential. 

Year-round training and meet attendance are required. The emphasis is on high levels of endurance, strength, and speed conditioning with technique refinement. Training includes long and short distances, IM work, interval training, aerobic base development and preparation for a stronger emotional commitment.

 

Senior Bolts require a strong commitment from the family as well as the swimmer.