American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Level 1
Level 1 is designed for adults who are new to swimming or just beginning to build comfort and confidence in the water. No prior swimming experience is needed. The focus is on water safety, safe entry and exit, and becoming comfortable with submersion, floating, and basic movement. Our Level 1 sessions are held October-March.
What you'll learn
- Enter and exit the water safely and independently
- Submerge your face and exhale underwater (blowing bubbles)
- Practice bobbing and safely return to the surface
- Float on your front and back with support, and recover to a standing position
- Use basic arm and leg actions to move on your front and back with assistance
- Explore combined arm and leg actions on your front and back with support
- Build confidence through water safety and beginner swimming skills
Who should apply
Adults (18+) of any experience level, including those with little to no time in the water. There are no prerequisites.
Where it leads
You'll learn in a supportive, encouraging environment with a strong emphasis on safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Skills build gradually, giving you a solid foundation for Level 2 and beyond.
2026–2027 Tuition
Our tiered tuition offers Early Bird, Standard, and Final Wave rates, plus a limited sliding scale for approved participants, to keep the program accessible and sustainable. Your rate depends on when you enroll relative to your session's start date.
- Early Bird (due 3 months prior): $140
- Standard (due 2 months prior): $180
- Final Wave (due 1 month prior): $250
- Sliding scale (upon approval): $90–$110, limited to 2 spots per session
All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
2026-2027 Practice schedule (3 days per week, West Charlotte High School, although locations and times may change with notice)
- Oct–Feb: Tue/Thu 7:30–8:30 PM, Sundays 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Mar: Tue/Thu 7:00–8:00 PM, Sundays 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
- What to bring to every practice
- Proper swim attire (no resort/beach swimwear or street shorts)
- Well-fitted goggles. Buy these well before class and get used to the fit; it can take a few pairs to find the right ones.
- Properly fitted swim cap. Caps reduce drag and keep hair out of your face, but they won't keep your hair dry. We recommend silicone over latex. Rinsing product out of your hair or wearing a lycra cap underneath helps keep it from sliding off.
- Towel
- Water (we recommend skipping sugary sports drinks)
Good to know
Swimming is strenuous, low-impact exercise that rewards patience, self-discipline, and consistent attendance. Consistent tardiness is not allowed, and students who miss 3 or more consecutive lessons are dismissed from the program without a refund. Medical forms will be sent after you register. No photos, videos, or recordings are allowed in the pool area without prior written consent from management.
Next steps
Submit your application below. Accepted swimmers will hear from the program coach with placement, payment, and schedule details.