Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I know if TI is right for my skill level and needs? Do you have open water (OW) programs?
TI
coaches are trained to work with swimmers with various goals and skill
levels, and many coaches have special expertise in a particular area.
We have coaches on staff who customize instruction for children, water
phobic beginners, four stroke competitive swimmers (freestyle,
breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly), open water enthusiasts, and new or
experienced triathletes. We also offer OW clinics in the summer, both
by appointment and on a pre-set schedule.
To book a lesson, you can call the Swim Studio at 914-466-5956 or e-mail us at
swimstudio@totalimmersion.net to schedule with coaches Alice & Betsy Laughlin and email fionalaughlin@gmail.com to schedule with Coach Fiona Laughlin. Tell us about your swim experience and goals, and we will help you
choose the right program. For the convenience of both swimmers and
instructors, instruction is scheduled by appointment so you can select a
time slot based on the availability of a coach. A home-based studio
with several coaches operating on different schedules, we are often
open for appointments 7 days a week, AM or PM.
What do I need to bring with me to my lesson or workshop?
If
it is your first time at the TISS, arrive 10 minutes before your
lesson to fill out paperwork and get oriented. Please bring a suit and
towel, and goggles and a swim cap if you have them. We can also provide
caps and goggles to buy or borrow. If you are taking several lessons
in one day, you may want a dry suit and towel for the afternoon as
well. If you're taking a workshop, be prepared to be out of the water
for a lunch break (food is not available for purchase onsite, but there
are restaurants in the village of New Paltz, a 5 minute drive from the
TISS).
How far in advance should I book my lesson or workshop?
Advance
notice is always recommended in the warmer months for the greatest
scheduling flexibility (especially on weekends), but we often fit in
lessons on short notice as well. We prefer that you email us at swimstudio@totalimmersion.net for availability and to schedule. If you must call please try 914-466-5956.
I'm taking lessons over the course of several days. What else is there to do in New Paltz?
New
Paltz is a vibrant small town with a wealth of outdoor activities,
shopping and dining experiences. For more information, you can visit the
New Paltz Chamber of Commerce website at www.newpaltzchamber.org. If
you have not visited the area before, you will quickly see how why it is
such a popular destination for tourism.
How long will it take to learn to swim?
The
amount of time it takes to learn to swim is variable and depends on
several factors, including comfort and prior experience in water, and
frequency of practice. Learning to swim well is an investment that lasts
a lifetime, and we see a wide range of learning timetables. Greater
ability to fit in practice before, after, or between lessons will likely
yield faster results, but we also see great progress in students with
less frequent access to water. A popular strategy for adult learners is
combining self-study with TI books and DVDs accompanied by a
workshop/lessons, as this allows for more reinforcement. Let us know
what you plan to study in lessons and we can advise the appropriate
supplementary materials.
How do I get to the TISS?
With
the TISS just 5 minutes outside the center of New Paltz (including the
Trailways bus station and NYS Thruway), we are conveniently located
for both local and traveling students. Let us know where you are
coming from and we can help determine the best route to get here.
