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AQUATICS
AT THE Y, WE BELIEVE THE ABILITY TO SWIM IS A CRITICAL LIFE SKILL
Our goal is to provide a positive aquatic experience. We help build self-esteem through accomplishments, develop an awareness of safety through the practice of skills, and instill the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. All of the programs are progressive, building upon basic skills and progressing toward mastery of techniques, and eventually toward other aspects of aquatics and the potential for lifelong involvements in aquatic programs.
All aquatics programs take place at the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus (Former Chesterton Middle School), 651 W Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, Indiana 46304. Please use Porter Avenue entrance for parking and Y entrance at Door 11/Pool Entrance.
SWIM LESSONS
SWIM LESSONS FOR SPRING 2026 ARE OPEN!
Swimming is one of life’s most essential skills: the ability to swim can help save your life or someone else’s life while introducing you to a lifetime of healthy, enjoyable activity in the water. Dive into confidence and skill with swim lessons, where qualified instructors provide personalized guidance in a safe environment. From beginner strokes to advanced techniques, our comprehensive program caters to all ages and abilities, fostering a lifelong love for swimming. At the Duneland Family YMCA, our swim lessons help kids and adults of all ages and abilities develop the skills they need to become strong, confident swimmers.
Swim lessons will take place at the new Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus (former Chesterton Middle School’s Pool), located at 651 W Morgan Ave, Chesterton, IN 46304, Door #11. For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kelley Keating, Sr Director of Aquatics, at kkeatingdunelandymca.org
Private Swim Lessons
It’s the YMCA’s philosophy that most people learn better in a group setting. However, sometimes individual attention is needed. Private lessons are available by appointment only! To register for Private Swim Lessons, contact Kelley Keating at [email protected].
WATER AEROBICS
Aqua Fitness Classes at the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus
Cool down and tone up with our invigorating water fitness classes! These low-impact, full-body workouts are perfect for all ages and abilities, whether you’re new to exercise or a seasoned athlete. Join our certified instructors in the pool for a fun and challenging workout. Greater mobility, reduced pain and fatigue, increased muscle strength and enhanced sleep quality are just a few of the benefits of a regular fitness workout in the pool. The focus is always on cardiovascular fitness, overall strengthening, toning, range of motion and FUN!
Have Questions? We're here to help!
For questions, please email us at [email protected] or call us at (219) 926-4204
Frequently Asked Questions - Swim Lessons
You can register online or at the welcome center. For private swim lessons, contact Kelley Keating at [email protected].
A: Swimsuit, towel, and goggles (optional). We do not allow masks that cover the nose during lessons. Younger swimmers who are not potty trained must wear swim diapers.
A: Class lengths vary by program. Please refer to the session description for specific class times.
A: Parent/child classes are designed for caregivers to be in the water with their child. Preschool and youth classes are taught by instructors with parents observing from the designated area on the pool deck. We understand special circumstances occur, reach out to Kelley with any questions.
A: This is very common, especially for new swimmers. Our instructors are trained to work at each child’s comfort level and build trust gradually. Attending an open swim prior to the start of lessons is a great way to acclimate to our pool.
A: While we do our best to accommodate, missed classes are not guaranteed to be made up. Consistent attendance is important for skill development and progress, so when possible and space allows, we may offer a make-up opportunity within the same month at another scheduled class time.
Frequently Asked Questions - Open Swim, Lap Swim and Facility Use
We cannot guarantee individual lap lanes. Lane sharing may be required during busy times. Check in with the lifeguard prior to getting in to find the best lane.
A: Yes, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are available for use during open swim. You may bring your own life jacket- as long as it is US Coastguard approved.
A: Swimmers under 13 must have an adult present in the pool area. Everyone under 18 must take a swimming test to determine which section of the pool is safest. Please check our pool rules for details.
A: Yes. Certified lifeguards are on duty during all open swim and programmed pool hours.
A: Any flotation devices must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, so generally, no rafts or inflatables. The aquatic staff can get out toys and noodles if you ask.
A: Please contact the Aquatics Department or Member Services for help with scheduling, registration, or program questions.
A: We welcome feedback! Please reach out to the Aquatics Director, Kelley Keating, so we can continue to improve your experience. [email protected]
A: Instead of opening our outdoor pool this summer, we will continue to use the indoor pool at our Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus located at 651 W Morgan Ave, to host swim lessons and aquatic programs.