LaGuardia Community College Aquatics Center: Programs, Hours, and Information
LaGuardia Community College is not only an educational institution but also a hub for community engagement and personal development. The college's Aquatics Center, located in the E-Building, Room E-155, stands as a testament to this commitment, offering a diverse range of programs and services to students and community members alike.
The Aquatics Center
The Aquatics Center features a 25-yard, six-lane indoor swimming pool. It is staffed by certified aquatic specialists and qualified instructors, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all patrons. The center is open year-round, seven days a week.
Swimming Programs and Classes
The Aquatics Center provides a variety of swimming programs and classes tailored to different skill levels and age groups. These include:
Private Swim Instruction
One-on-one lessons are available for all ages at a cost of $50 per 45-minute session.
Group Swimming Instruction
Group lessons are offered for ages 5-8, ages 9-13, and adults (14-99). These consist of eight 45-minute lessons and cost $175.
Read also: Applying to LaGuardia Community College
Intensive Swim Classes
During the summer, intensive swim classes are available for ages 5-8 and ages 9-13. These classes run Monday through Friday for two weeks and consist of 55-minute lessons, costing $225.
Lap Swim and Open Swim
The Aquatics Center offers lap swim and open swim times for individuals who prefer to swim independently. These sessions provide an opportunity to improve swimming stroke and increase stamina in a relaxed environment.
Community Age Group Swim Team: The Twisters
For young, aspiring swimmers, the Aquatics Center is home to the Twisters, an age group swim team (5-16 years). The team practices six days a week, fostering physical and mental discipline. Many program graduates go on to compete in area competitions, with some even reaching junior Olympic swim meets and Olympic trials. The Twisters program cultivates friendships and valuable life skills.
Aquatics Center FAQs
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, the Aquatics Center has established a set of guidelines and frequently asked questions:
Q: Why do I need a photo ID to go swimming?
A: A photo ID is required for safety reasons. In case of an emergency, it allows staff to provide vital information to rescue personnel.
Read also: Explore LaGuardia
Q: Do I need to wear a swimming cap?
A: A swimming cap is required if your hair is longer than 4 inches.
Q: Can I use my gym shorts in the swimming pool?
A: No, only swimming trunks with lining are allowed for sanitary reasons.
Q: Do you provide towels?
A: No, patrons are required to bring their own towels.
Q: Why do I need to take a shower before getting in the pool?
A: This is mandated by the Board of Health of the City of New York. Showering helps maintain hygiene and prevents substances like perspiration and lotions from combining with chlorine, which can create an unpleasant gas called chloramine.
Q: Can I bring my friends to swim?
A: Yes, the Aquatics Center is open to everyone.
Read also: Your Guide to LaGuardia Community College
Beyond the Pool: Athletics and Recreation at LaGuardia
The Aquatics Center is just one component of LaGuardia Community College's broader Athletics and Recreation program. The mission of this program is to promote physical activity, healthy lifestyles, social development, self-esteem, and personal integrity. The college offers a wide range of activities and facilities to support this mission, including:
Sports Gymnasium and Fitness Center
The college features a multi-purpose Sports Gymnasium and a Fitness Center that are open year-round for walk-in recreation. These facilities are available to both the college community and the wider community.
The Fitness Center is equipped with a variety of machines, including Cybex, Flex, and Universal machines, as well as free weights, treadmills, stair climbers, stationary bikes, and elliptical cross-trainers.
Intramurals and Open Gym Sports
LaGuardia Community College provides a competitive intramural sports experience in sports such as basketball, volleyball, and indoor soccer. The college utilizes a "Captain" System for team sports, where individual students can develop their leadership skills. In addition to organized intramural events, students can request equipment to play handball, basketball, and table tennis at any time during operating hours, while designated hours are set aside for open volleyball and soccer play each semester.
Zumba
Zumba classes are available as part of the fitness offerings. These classes combine dance and aerobic movements performed to up-tempo music, incorporating hip-hop, Latin, and Caribbean dance styles.
Basketball Skills Academy
The Basketball Skills Academy provides players ages 8-15 the opportunity to learn the concepts and fundamentals of basketball and develop their overall game. The academy focuses more on new players and developmental drills as opposed to advanced practice.
Red Hawks Athletics
LaGuardia's athletic teams, the Red Hawks, compete in NJCAA Region XV Division III and as part of the CUNY Athletics Conference. Information on the Men’s and Women’s Basketball schedule and Men’s Soccer schedule can be found at www.LaGuardia.edu/recreation/athletics.
Additional Resources and Programs at LaGuardia
LaGuardia Community College offers a wide array of resources and programs for students and the community beyond its athletic facilities.
Summer Sessions and Programs for Teens
LaGuardia Community College offers top-notch learning opportunities at an affordable price point for learners of all ages during the summer. High school students are welcome to take college-level courses as visiting students. Specialized English as a Second Language courses are available for teens ages 13-16 through the English Language Center’s Teen English Academy.
Programs for Families
LaGuardia Community College offers programs for families, including college readiness programs for children ages 14-21 and classes & youth employment programs.
Community Resources and Support
LaGuardia Community College is deeply connected to the surrounding community and provides access to various resources and support services:
Homework Help
For students needing assistance with their studies, several options are available:
- Dial-a-Teacher: Offers live one-on-one homework help by telephone or online at homeworknyc.org. Classroom teachers answer homework questions and provide advice to parents. The service is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Italian, Chinese, French, Haitian-Creole, Greek, Hebrew, Korean, and Russian, Monday through Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on school nights. The telephone number is (212) 777-3380.
- Queens Libraries: All Queens Libraries offer homework help. Some branches have extra help, such as teen tutors.
- Online Resources: Homework NYC and Yahoo Answers provide online assistance in various subject areas.
Beacon Programs
Beacon Programs are school-based community centers serving children age 6 and older, as well as adults.
Visiting the Aquatics Center
For those planning a visit to the Aquatics Center, here are some helpful details:
Location
The Aquatics Center is located in the E-Building, Room E-155, at LaGuardia Community College.
Pool Temperature
The pool temperature is maintained at 79º - 80ºF (26º - 27ºC) from May to September and 81º - 82ºF (27º - 28ºC) from October to April.
Cost
The Aquatics Center offers an affordable option for swimming, with a price of only $10.
Amenities
Kickboards and pull buoys are provided poolside.
Contact Information
- Recreation Office: (718) 482-5044
- Gymnasium: (718) 482-5043
- Fitness Center: (718) 482-5963
- Swimming Pool: (718) 482-5038
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