Time Trials:

Time trials are held towards the end of each term to determine the appropriate lane for swimmers to train in – not too fast and not too slow. It is important that Junior Squad and Pre Squad swimmers attend at least one of these sessions. Swimmers can attend both days and their best times are used.

Time trials are sometimes held at slightly different times to usual training times.

Please be aware that these times may be subject to slight change on the day so swimmers may finish a bit earlier than scheduled and will need to be available to start promptly.

Swimmers swim one length of each stroke, for which they are timed, these times are totalled for each swimmer then placed in speed order. They are then divided into the 8 groups we have available for training. This allows swimmers to move through the groups on ability and ensures swimmers are in groups with children of similar ability to themselves for the purpose of training. Invitations to move lanes based on these times will be sent out during thr holidays in time for the new term.

Please note these times are not used for the purpose of gala selection, as technical correctness is not needed for the purpose of time trials. Swimmers will also naturally swim faster in an actual gala, than in time trials, which is why entering the Xmas Sprints and Club Championships is also as important.

It is normal for swimmers to stay in the same group for consecutive terms. It is also normal for swimmers to skip groups. Swimmers are sometimes asked to move groups at different times if coaches feel another group would be better. 

Please remember if your swimmer is not training the maximum number of sessions possible they may not progress at the same speed as other swimmers who are training more regularly.