Five causes it’s best to be part of US Masters Swimming at The Rec

Five causes it’s best to be part of US Masters Swimming at The Rec

Published 1:30 am Monday, April 13, 2026

By Ken Bennett

Friday Harbor resident and longtime US Masters Swimming member

Let’s bust a fable immediately: You don’t must be a “master” of something to affix Masters swimming. U.S. Masters Swimming is for adults 18 and up of all talent ranges — whether or not you’re simply getting comfy within the water or chasing a brand new private finest. Here are 5 causes it’s best to be part of US Masters Swimming at The Rec

It’s for everybody

Seriously. Beginners, former highschool and faculty swimmers, triathletes — everybody shares the pool. No stress, no expectations. Just a lane and a spot to begin.

You get an important exercise (with out the wear and tear and tear)

Swimming delivers a low-impact, full-body exercise that builds energy, endurance and adaptability — whereas being straightforward in your joints.

You don’t must determine it out alone

With coach-led practices, you possibly can simply present up and swim. The units are written for you, and modifications make it straightforward to go at your individual tempo.

The neighborhood is actual

With greater than 1,500 applications and 60,000 members nationwide, USMS — based in 1970 — is understood for its welcoming, supportive tradition. At The Rec, which means encouragement in each lane and loads of laughs between units.

It’s extra enjoyable than you assume

Coach Kent Slyter, The Rec’s licensed Level 2 US Masters coach, sees it day by day. “I enjoy helping people grow by doing what they love,” he says. “It’s exciting to watch swimmers ‘get it’ and build confidence. Every practice has those moments.”

Local resident Sam Garson provides, “Masters swimming on the island has been an amazing program to be a part of. I was lucky enough to be among the first cohort and am amazed and excited to see its growth. For me swimming has been a huge asset after back injuries from collegiate rowing stopped my ability to stay as active as I wanted. Having a dedicated, incredible coach like Kent and a community of Masters swimmers has been a great way to push myself even on mornings I’d rather stay in bed.”

Coach Kent hopes to maintain the momentum going. “We’re up to three one-hour workouts a week,” he says. “I’d love to see all our lanes full—and maybe get more swimmers to local Masters meets. They’re a blast.”

Ready to see what all the thrill is about? Sign up on The Rec web site or cease by to be taught extra. Jump in — the water’s greater than fantastic.