What is Masters Swimming?

Masters Swimming is a blend of fitness and competitive swimming for adults 18 years of age and over. Individuals who find it difficult to stick with a self-imposed, keep-fit routine will find it easier to maintain as a member of a Masters Swimming program.  Regular structured workouts use interval training and other techniques in an atmosphere of fun, fitness, friendship, and participation.

There are 5 clubs in Montana Masters Swimming that offer a variety of organized workouts for fitness, triathlete, competitive and non-competitive swimmers.  Four clubs are local and one is regional, encompassing swimmers from throughout the state.  Take a look at the Places to Swim page that lists many swim locations in Montana.

Who can join Montana Masters?

Anyone 18 years of age or over who has basic swimming ability and can comfortably swim a few lengths of the pool can join. It is NOT necessary to have previous experience in competitive swimming.

Does everyone compete?

No! The majority of Masters swim for fitness, gaining stroke improvement and motivation from the instruction a coach provides. Members join for their own reasons, participating in various club activities only if they wish to participate. Progress can be a measure of increased distance swum, fewer rest periods needed to finish a distance, or a general feeling of well-being after a workout.

Pool and open water events provide opportunities to compete and measure individual progress at the local, state, national, and international levels, but only for those who want to compete. USMS programs also offer stroke and technique clinics, and workshops.

Activities?

Yes! There is a  Montana Masters Championships held every March (Short Course Yards), National championships in spring and summer, and numerous international championships. There are open water swims,  fitness and stroke clinics and dual sanctioned meets with local USA-Swimming clubs.  To see what we are going to be doing this year see our page of scheduled events.

Other benefits?

Yes, as a member of Montana Masters Swimming you are a member of US Masters Swimming and will receive Swimmer magazine.

You are covered by a group insurance policy. The insurance includes supplemental accident and liability coverage during all sanctioned events and during organized workouts of registered member that are supervised by a USMS member or USA-S coach.

How do I find out more about Masters swimming?

If you have found a place to swim or club that you might be interested in, you can find a link to the club’s website (if available) and a contact email in our club list.

Do I have to be a member of US Masters Swimming to compete in events?

Yes, all competitors at sanctioned pool meets and open water events must be members of US Masters Swimming.

How do I join?

For information about how to join, go to the “Becoming a Montana Masters Swimmer” page.

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Montana Masters Swimming is a Local Masters Swimming Committee (LMSC) governed by US Masters Swimming. Montana Masters covers the geographical area of the state of Montana except the counties of Dawson and Wibaux.