FAQ: Differences Between 1:1, 1:2 and Group Swimming Lessons

Signing your child or yourself up for swimming lessons can be overwhelming when deciding if you should book a 1:1, 1:2 or group lesson. Speed of progression, cost, and teachers’ attention are major factors for into these kinds of decisions.

1:1 Lessons

1:1 lessons are incredibly beneficial for swimmers of all abilities, aged 2 years and up. However, they can be particularly helpful for beginners, as the student receives the teacher’s full, undivided attention. This personalised approach means the swimmer can progress at their own pace, free from the potential pressures of peers, while benefiting from tailored programmes and immediate feedback, allowing for efficient development.

For more advanced swimmers, 1:1 lessons also offer an invaluable opportunity to focus on specific skills or techniques, such as mastering a challenging stroke or fine-tuning performance for competitions. These focused sessions are particularly useful during holiday breaks or short intensive courses, where dedicated attention can quickly address any weak areas and enhance overall technique.

Additionally, 1:1 lessons are often ideal for swimmers with special educational needs (SEN). In these private settings, instructors can adapt each lesson to the individual, accommodating specific requirements with sensitivity and skill. The personalised safety measures and one-on-one attention provide a safe environment for all levels, helping those with water apprehension or disabilities feel more confident and secure as they develop a strong foundation in swimming.

1:2 Lessons

If you are looking into 1:2 lessons, there are numerous benefits for swimmers of all ages, though they may be less suitable for absolute beginners. Available for ages three and up, these lessons reduce the pressure or intimidation that can come with being in either a 1:1 or group lesson.

Having a swimming partner can be motivating and provide more social interaction, with a lower cost than 1:1 lessons while maintaining high value in progression. The instructor’s attention is shared, but remains significantly more focused than in larger groups, with personalised attention and tailored assessments suited to each child’s needs.

These lessons are particularly helpful for siblings or friends who wish to swim together, adding a friendly sense of competition that encourages each swimmer to improve in stroke technique, complete challenges, and occasionally race. For those interested in club swimming, but not yet ready to join the group pre-club classes, this competitive element can be a fun introduction to the sport’s team aspect.

Overall, 1:2 lessons offer a great balance between individualised attention and a fun, interactive experience, making them a faster and more effective option for progression than group lessons.

Group Lessons

SwimWay offers group lessons in several formats: small group classes for parent & baby lessons, 1:4 ratios for children grouped according to school year, 1:5 group lessons for adults, and larger 1:10 triathlon training sessions for adults. Group lessons are the most cost-effective option, as the instructor’s time is shared among multiple swimmers. This setup is ideal for those wanting a more affordable learning path without sacrificing the quality of instruction.

Group lessons are excellent for both beginners and advanced swimmers. For beginners, while the progression is not as quick as it would be in a 1:1 or 1:2 setting, the social environment creates a supportive and engaging atmosphere, with healthy competition and peer encouragement to help build confidence. For more advanced swimmers, group lessons provide a dynamic environment ideal for performing drills, swimming longer distances, and honing techniques, particularly for those preparing for club or gala events, such as club swimming for children or triathlon events for adults.

Advanced swimmers benefit from the added challenge of practising within a group, which can simulate competitive conditions. For adults training for triathlons or other endurance events, the structured sets and drills in a group environment help improve stamina, technique, and speed. Similarly, for young swimmers transitioning to club-level training, group lessons introduce a fun but structured approach to goal setting, pacing, and performance, preparing them to confidently join larger training groups.

SwimWay offers a variety of lessons that could best suit your needs and requirements. Book online, call 0208 871 3972 or email us on [email protected] today to book the lesson that works best for you!