Masters’ Swimming

Our Masters' section at Nottingham Leander is a welcoming community for adult swimmers of all ages, from 18 to 70+. Whether you're training for competitions or simply looking to stay fit, we offer a supportive environment to help you achieve your goals.

No Matter Your Skill Level

We cater to a wide range of abilities, but you should be comfortable swimming lengths of the pool for an hour. 

History

Learn about the history of this World Record breaking section of Leander.

Training TIMES Records CoachES

Competing

While competition isn't mandatory, we offer excellent opportunities for those who wish to participate in masters' swimming events. As one of the UK's largest and most active clubs, we're well-equipped to support your competitive aspirations.

Each year, we discuss target events on our Facebook page, typically including:

  • National Masters (SC)
  • British Masters (LC)
  • Local Events: Midland, Calverton and Bingham, Etwall, and Leicester Masters
  • Decathlon Competition
Decathlon Points Calculator

Open Water

While Nottingham Leander does not have an official Open Water group, many of our swimmers regularly undertake open water training, and compete in Regional and National competitions.  Speak to Wayne at Masters Training for more details.

How Do Masters’ Competitions Work?

Masters' competitions are held frequently throughout the UK. Swimmers are categorized into five-year age groups, starting from 25-29. Additionally, a special "seniors" category exists for 18-24 year-olds.

Race Format:

  • Time-Based Heats: Most competitions organize races by time, ensuring swimmers of similar abilities compete together, regardless of age group.
  • Age-Group Heats: National, World, and European Championships are primarily age-group based, with the fastest swimmers competing in separate heats.

Pool Length:

  • Short Course: Most competitions take place in 25-meter pools.
  • Long Course: A few competitions are held in 50-meter pools.

Event Distances and Strokes:

  • Common Events: 50m and 100m distances in all four strokes (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly), 100m Individual Medley (IM), and 200m freestyle.
  • Less Common Events: 200m individual strokes, 400m freestyle, 400m IM, 800m freestyle, and 1500m freestyle.
  • Relay Events: Mixed and single-gender relays are common, with categories based on the combined age of the team members.

By understanding these basic principles, you can navigate the world of masters' swimming and participate in competitions that suit your skill level and preferences.

Facebook: Leander Masters. Twitter @LeanderMasters, #NLMSC