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Make a splash with these swimming classes and programs for kids in Chattanooga

Kids playing in a pool

Swimming isn’t just a life skill — it’s a confidence booster, a great workout, and a whole lot of fun. In Chattanooga, families have access to high-quality swim schools and leagues that cater to all ages and ability levels.

Whether your child is dipping their toes in for the first time, hoping to overcome fear of the water, or preparing for competitive swim team tryouts, there’s a class that fits. With certified instructors, warm indoor pools, and programs designed with safety and fun in mind, these local swim options make a big splash with Chattanooga parents.

To create this guide, we interviewed parents, conducted online research and gathered insights from reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Reddit posts, and in some cases from parent interviews through our reporting. This list showcases classes recommended by parents based on their personal experiences. Each program’s offerings, location, and schedule were carefully verified to provide families with accurate, reliable information to support their decision-making.

Ready to get your child going? Here are some great swimming classes and opportunities for kids in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

1. Aqua-Tots Swim School – Hamilton Place

Aqua-Tots specializes in swim instruction for children aged 4 months to 12 years. Their indoor, 90 degree pool and small class sizes (4:1 student-to-instructor ratio) create a comfortable learning environment. The school offers flexible scheduling, make-up lessons, and progress tracking through their mobile app.

Things to Know:

  • Year-round weekday and weekend lessons are available
  • Certified instructors with extensive training will coach and teach your little one
  • Programs for all skill levels from learning to swim through experienced swimmers. Lessons can begin at 4 months of age.

What families are saying:

One Google reviewer shared,

My 2 yo Grandson has been here since 4 mo’s old! He’s extremely comfortable in water and the instructors are amazing with him! His primary instructor is Elizabeth however, he recently did an additional class with a brand new instructor, Lorelai, and she was VERY well prepared to conduct the class. Do not hesitate to sign your child up for lessons!

Details:

2. YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga

The YMCA offers comprehensive swim programs for all ages, including group and private lessons, swim leagues, and adaptive swim classes. With multiple locations and a long-standing commitment to community wellness, the YMCA provides accessible and inclusive aquatic education.

Things to Know:

  • New classes begin and are listed monthly so you can hop in when you are ready.
  • Assessments available by trained guards for proper class placement
  • Adaptive swim lessons for individuals with special needs and for those who prefer individualized training.
  • Swim tests required for children under 13 when participating in select areas of the YMCA pools during open swim time to ensure safety.

What families are saying:

A Facebook reviewer shared,

Great Classes, Wonderfull Staff, Newly remodeled Facilities and nice pools!

Details:

3. British Swim School of Chattanooga

British Swim School focuses on survival-first swimming lessons, ensuring that students learn essential water safety skills before progressing to stroke development. Their gentle, fun, and individualized approach caters to students from 3 months old to adults, including those with special needs. Franchise owner, Raymond Liu, told Tennessee Parent, “it’s so encouraging to see families enrolling their children in our swim programs—ensuring they gain a vital, life-saving skill that will benefit them for years to come.”

Things to Know:

  • Small class sizes (max 4 students)
  • Year-round, ongoing enrollment in the indoor pool setting.
  • Instructors trained in water survival techniques and have been training in Chattanooga since 1981
  • No use of floatation devices to promote real-life safety skills. British Swim School focuses on survival first training techniques.

What families are saying:

This Google reviewer shared her child’s experience,

One of the best decisions we ever made was choosing British Swim school in Chattanooga with teaching our children to be comfortable around water and most importantly learning water safety. Our toddler was afraid of water wouldn’t get in a pool without being held 2 1/2 months after being here at British Swim school he is jumping in the water, floating and going completely under, has also learned how to safely get himself in and out of the water. 

Raymond Liu, the franchise owner of British Swim School of Chattanooga, who shared these fun photos.

Details:

  • Address: Multiple locations; Holiday Inn Express pool, 1441 N. Smith St. Chattanooga, TN
  • Phone: (423) 770-8886
  • Website: britishswimschool.com/chattanooga
  • Ages: 3 months – adult

4. Baylor Swim Club

Located at the Baylor School, the Baylor Swim Club offers group swimming lessons that teach children basic strokes and water safety. With programs ranging from beginner to pre-swim team levels, the club provides a pathway for young swimmers to develop their skills in a structured environment.

Things to Know:

  • Lessons offered year-round
  • Classes grouped by ability and not just age groupings. Beginner class is for children 3 and older who are not yet comfortable in water.
  • Maximum of 5 children per class
  • Private and semi-private lessons available by preference.

What families are saying:

A Facebook review shared,

Excellent coaches and staff. Ever since day 1 my child has learned so much and learns something new every practice. She has a bond with every coach and they enjoy getting to know each swimmer as a individual.

Details:

5. The Swim School at Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center

This swim school offers year-round lessons with a focus on small class sizes and personalized instruction. Classes are available for various skill levels, and the school is known for helping students overcome fear of the water and build confidence. The owners of Choo Choo Diving and Aquatic Center spoke to Tennessee Parent about what sets them apart as a great choice for families. They said, “We have been in Chattanooga teaching swim for over 40 years. 4 children to a class for beginners, and most of the time 2 teachers to those 4 children. Advanced classes have up to 5 students. Our pool is heated, and has a shallow end as well as a deep end so students can have that experience.”

Things to Know:

  • Monthly tuition with flexible start dates
  • Emphasis on building comfort and confidence in the water
  • Swimming classes begin at 6 months of age.
  • Scuba classes begin at 8 years of age and go through adult. Scuba lessons, certifications, and trips are available.

What families are saying:

A Facebook reviewer shared,

Professional attitude and knowledgeable staff. I took my kids through swimming lessons, SCUBA Rangers and now Open Water Certification. I would do it all again without exception! Thanks Choo Choo!

Details: