Levels explained: What they are and why they matter
If you're a swim parent, chances are you've heard the words Level 1, Level 2, or provincial times thrown around the poolside.
It can all sound a bit overwhelming, especially when your child is still figuring out their stroke technique or just starting out in gala competitions.
So, what do these levels actually mean? And should you be worried about how fast your child is moving through them?
Let’s take a deep breath and break it down.
What are “levels” in swimming?
Levels are simply milestones based on qualifying times. They help coaches, clubs, and federations group swimmers by ability and performance for competitions.
They’re not a judgment of talent; they’re a tool to ensure swimmers are racing others at a similar stage in their development.
Most competitive swimmers start at Level 1, and as their times improve, they progress to Level 2, Level 3, and so on; each with specific time standards that vary by age and event.
Why levels exist (and why they help your child)
Levels serve a few key purposes:
- They provide structured progression and goalposts
- They give swimmers something to work toward without comparing them to elite athletes too early
- They allow swimmers to compete in meets that are right for their current skill and confidence level
- This creates a more positive and motivating environment, especially for kids who are still growing into their bodies and strokes.
What if my child isn’t moving up quickly?
Don’t panic. Some swimmers might stay in the same level for a year or more, and that’s completely normal. Improvement isn’t always linear. It can take time for technique to catch up with physical strength, or for mental confidence to click.
As coaches, we focus on preparing swimmers for long-term growth, not rushing them through levels just for the sake of “moving up.”
Remember, faster progress now doesn’t always mean long-term success later.
The level doesn’t define the swimmer
A swimmer’s level is just a snapshot of where they are today, not where they’re going. Some swimmers reach Level 3 at age 13, others only get there at 16. Both can go on to have successful careers in the pool. What matters most is that your child is developing strong habits, solid technique, and a love for the sport; the kind of foundation that helps them keep swimming, learning, and thriving well into their senior years.
Conclusion
Swim levels are there to guide, not to pressure. They help coaches and swimmers set goals and measure progress but they don’t define your child’s talent, potential, or future.
At TC Aquatics, we use levels as a tool, not a label. Our goal is to help your child become the best version of themselves no matter what number is next to their name on the gala sheet.
"It’s not about racing through the levels; it’s about rising when it counts."