Adult swim lessons inDes Moines
Whether you are a total beginner or looking for an advanced swimming course, Sunsational Swim School offers private, at-home swim lessons for adults in Des Moines to ensure rapid progress!
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Sunsational Swim instructors
For total beginners or advanced swimmers!
Sunsational Swim School offers adult swim lessons at home or in your community pool in Des Moines. Whether you're an adult beginner dipping your toe into the pool for the first time, working to overcome a fear of water, or seeking advanced swim training to complete the 1500-meter swimming split of a triathlon, we’ll be with you every stroke of the way to get you to your goals! Our expert swim instructors provide personalized, 1-on-1 adult private swim lessons to help you reach your goals. Learn to swim at your own pace with America’s #1 swim school.
Start swimming faster with a Sunsational private swim instructor in Des Moines
Getting to swim classes can be tough – that’s why we bring baby swim lessons to you! We want your baby to be comfortable in the water, so we offer private parent and baby lessons or the option to create a small baby group (3 to 6 babies) with your friends. Our instructors make it easy for everyone to have fun while learning key water safety skills together. Babies will receive a certificate after completing their lessons. What's more fun than your baby earning a certificate with their friends?
Private adult swimming lessons are great for…
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Adults in all swimming levels
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Fear of water or aquaphobia
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Adults with near drowning/traumatic experiences
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Training for a triathlon or other swim competition
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Learning stroke technique
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Training for a swim test (military, school, etc.)
Why choose Sunsational Swim School to learn to swim?
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Quick Results
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Our adult swim students generally learn to swim within just 6 to 12 swim lessons
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Built-in Convenience
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Sunsational swim instructors travel to you & work around your schedule
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Top Instructors
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All Sunsational instructors are CPR/First Aid certified with a minimum of 2 years of experience teaching adult lessons
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Satisfaction Guaranteed
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Love your lessons or choose a new instructor or refund
Benefits of adult swimming lessons with Sunsational
If you want to learn to swim and you’re afraid or embarrassed to try in a group, the Sunsational Swim School’s private swimming lessons for adults can help you develop a strong set of basic swim skills quickly.
Private swim lessons are the most effective way to learn
Our adult swim lessons can take place at your community pool or even in your own home swimming pool—at the times and days that work best for you.
We make it convenient to learn
Our private adult swim lessons are tailored to your comfort level and learning style. We create a relaxed environment where progress is easy and fast.
We tailor our lessons for you
You can choose a time slot for adult swimming lessons that fits with your own schedule and even book multiple lessons in advance at the same time.
Flexible scheduling
From the first splash to the last dive, our private swim lessons for adults help you advance at your pace in an encouraging and safe environment.
Non-swimmers to advance technique training
Our instructors are CPR/First Aid certified, background checked, and trained in swim safety. They’re patient and experienced at teaching adults.
Highly qualified & patient instructors
You’re never too old to learn
Learning to swim is an achievement to be proud of at any age, especially considering that nearly half of all American adults fear the deep end while 37% can’t swim at all. Our private adult swim lessons use personalized programs and proven methods to help adults of all levels build confidence, overcome their fear of water, and master essential swimming skills in a supportive environment.
Adult Beginner
How to be comfortable in the water
Water safety/survival techniques
Introduction to treading water
Proper floating, kicking, and breathing underwater
Front crawl/freestyle swim stroke
Adult Intermediate
Breaststroke, backstroke swimming techniques
Rotary breathing
Endurance building
Mechanical stroke refinement on established swim strokes
Adult Advanced
Advanced stroke techniques for improved efficiency and speed
Butterfly arm and kick coordination, flip turns, and diving
Speed, endurance and stamina
Specialized Training
Endurance-based interval training for long-distance and military swim tests
Swim training for swimmers participating in triathlons
Water aerobic exercise with stretching and strength training routines to improve all elements of fitness (flexibility, muscular strength, and cardiovascular fitness)
Recommended lesson plans for adult Swim Lessons
After teaching thousands of adults how to swim, we’ve found that these lesson plans work best based on skill levels and goals:
For beginner adult swim students
Lesson Length:
60 minutes
Recommended Lessons:
12-18
If you’re new to swimming or overcoming a fear of water, our 6-pack of 1-hour lessons is ideal for building your confidence. For adult beginners looking to master basic skills and progress to strokes like freestyle, our 12-pack offers extended practice and faster results.
For advanced adult swim students
Lesson Length:
60 minutes
Recommended Lessons:
6-12
For advanced swimmers training for competition, tests, or triathlons, as well as those who just want to improve their swimming skills, our 12 or 18-pack provides focused practice to refine your stroke technique. Better technique will help you swim faster with less effort.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
We're so confident in the quality of our swim instructors that we stand behind them with our Sunsational Instructor Guarantee!
If your first lesson is anything less than sunsational, just let us know and we can either refund your unused lesson time or re-start your lesson package with a more suitable Instructor, your choice!
Adult Lessons
1 Hr or longer (add in 30 minute increments). Each hour can be divided by up to 4 students (max of 2 beginners at one time; both beginners must be age 4 yrs or older). 30 minutes private lesson per student to qualify for the guarantee.
1 - 4 Student
60 Minute private or semi-private lessons
(1Hr+ Can be divided by multiple students)
18 lessons
92
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
98
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
105
/ HOUR
Need help? Call 1-253-248-6377
Private swim lessons vs. Group swim lessons
Learn about why parents choose Sunsational for their Private Swimming Lessons
Private Swim Lessons
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Group Swim Lessons
Quick Results with 30+ minutes of individualised instruction
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Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention
Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back
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Flexible scheduling, may vary for each child
Save time lessons at your home or community pool
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Time-Consuming - travel required to and from lessons
Faster Progression saves money in the long run
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More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress
Search Nearby Instructors
*If you'd like to work with a specific instructor, we'll do our best match you with your request. However, instructor availability is not guaranteed. If the instructor is unavailable, we'll pair you with a swim instructor who's equally qualified!
Dallas G.
Des moines, Washington 98198
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
My swim journey began in high school, where I swam for 4 years and was captain of the team for 3 of them. During that time I began teaching swim lessons to kids from 12months old all the way up to adults while lifeguarding at the Kent-Meridian pool, and I did that for 4years. I have an amazing ability to swim and teach. I wish to share all my knowledge & swim wisdom with my students to help everyone be comfortable, & conquer in the water. Cant wait to build your swimming abilities.
Sarah F.
Auburn, Washington 98001
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Sarah and I have been a Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructor since November 2013. I specialize in teaching hesitant and new swimmers of all ages, from 6 months to adults, though I also enjoy working with swimmers looking to hone their competitive and recreational swimming skills. I swam competitively in high school and competed in the state of Ohio Division 2 State meet in 2015. I am looking forward to diving into lessons with you!
Linnet M.
Federal Way, Washington 98003
Certification N/A
From beginners, intermediate, and advanced swimmers from all age categories. I have great teaching skills and follow a simplified program when it comes to my "Learn-how-to-swim" program. With years of hands-on coaching experience, I have built a reputation as a trusted and effective mentor who understands that every swimmer is unique, which is why I carefully tailor my training programs to accommodate different abilities and learning styles. My structured lessons cover everything from basic water safety and foundational strokes for beginners to advanced techniques for competitive swimmers looking to enhance. My swim approach is characterized by patience, encouragement, and a keen ability to adapt my lessons to the needs of each individual.
Olivia B.
Federal Way, WA 98023
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi, my name is Olivia and I've been teaching swim lessons for 3 years with ages 3mo to adults including special needs. I have also worked with children/adults as a shallow and deep water lifeguard/ fitness instructor teaching water aerobics and river walking. I am currently attending EWU for my BS in Psychology! I love teaching swimming because I love to experience someone learning something new for the first time and love the fact that I'm teaching a skill that could potentially save a life!
Djenica O.
Federal Way, Washington 98003
Certification N/A
Hello swimmers and families! My name is Djenica, I'm 23, and I am currently a master's student at the University of Washington. I have worked clinically in ophthalmology as that is my future career goal! Teaching swim lessons was my first ever job, and I have loved it ever since. I have worked with children and adults of all ages, where I have mostly taught children between 5 and 13 years old. I started competitively swimming at 10 years old on a Midlakes summer swim team, and I swam through high school as well. During that time, I taught swim lessons, lifeguarded (pool, water park, and beaches), and spent some time coaching as well. My favorite strokes are butterfly and freestyle, though I really enjoy teaching all aspects of swimming and water safety!
Kellie M.
Kent, WA 98030
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello!My name is Kellie Masters I began my love of the water as a young kid growing up on the Washington Coast. I have been working in Aquatics ever since for over 20 years. I have my Bachelors of Science in Recreation Management specializing in Aquatics and am currently working on my Masters in Recreation and Sports Management. I love teaching and I am excited to help everyone succeed. From infants to the older adult I have experience and background with all age groups.
Shauna S.
Tacoma, Washington 98422
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Shauna. I grew up swimming, playing sports, and being active my whole life. Ive been coaching softball, volleyball, snow skiing, wakeboarding, and swimming since February 2000 and love seeing students gain confidence and athletic skills as they develop, learn, and grow in their confidence. I have experience teaching swim to students ages 1 and up, including those with special needs!
Jillian C.
Renton, Washington 98058
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, my name is Jillian and Ive always loved the water! Ive swam for 14 years including 4 years as a varsity collegiate swimmer. During grad school, I coached for the Colorado School of Mines varsity swim team (5 years). I have a PhD from Colorado School of Mines and a BS from Florida Tech, both in chemical engineering. Im known for being a goofy, bubbly, nerd who enjoys combining science with swimming and have taught kids of all ages and experience levels.
Saskia F.
Seattle, WA 98126
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hello, my name is Saskia! I am originally from the UK but have been living in the US for the past few years. I have been a swim instructor for 6 years, teaching students of all ages from 3 months to 50+. I have been a lifeguard for 7 years. I attended UCLA (Go Bruins!) for Marketing. I love teaching swimming, because I enjoy seeing students learn new skills, understand the importance of water safety and become confident in the water.
Allie S.
Seattle, WA 98116
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Howdy, I'm Allie! I was an SEC Division 1 Colligate athlete at Mizzou, Texas 4-A State Record holder in high school swim, have 18+ years of swimming for USA Swimming, and still swim today. I absolutely love the sport of swimming! Need help perfecting stokes to reach time cuts? Want a peace of mind knowing your toddler can swim if they fall into the pool? Then I'm your gal. I'm a kid at heart and always have a blast teaching the sport I know best to ALL ages; adults, teens, kids & toddlers.
Shayne J.
Seattle, Washington 98126
Certification N/A
I have been teaching swim lessons off and on since March 2006. My youngest students have been six months old, starting out with parents just getting comfortable in the water. My oldest student was a 65-year-old who was newly retired and wanted to fulfill her dream of swimming with the dolphins but had never learned how to swim. With my vast experience, I am able to give you exactly what youre looking for out of your lessons, whether its perfecting your stroke for a competition or learning how to have fun in the water while staying safe. I specialize in neurodivergent and behavioral needs kids, teaching adaptive lessons, but I welcome students of all ages.
Corrine H.
Seattle, WA 98116
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi! My name is Corrine and I've been been teaching swim lessons for 12 years ranging from 12 months to adults. I coached a youth swim team ranging from ages 4-18 years for 4 years and coached a high school girls swim team for 9 years. I have experience teaching children with special needs and fearful beginners. I love teaching swimming because I competitively swam for 12 years and it brought me so much joy, my hope is to help others achieve that joy as well!
Rachel B.
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi, my name is Rachel Black and I've been teaching swimming lessons for about 3 years from ages 2-5. I've worked with children for 4 years now as a babysitter, volunteer swim instructor, and swim instructor. I went to Bellarmine Preparatory High school in Tacoma and am now pursuing a career in Forensics and Criminology at the University of Portland. I love teaching swimming because I love watching my students grow into fantastic and safe swimmers.
Jake D.
Tacoma, WA 98408
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, my name is Jake and I've been teaching swim lessons for 10 years with ages ranging from 2 - 70 of all different abilities, and comfort levels in the water.. I've also worked with children for the past 15 years as a tutor, Special Olympics coach, and babysitter. I have my BA in History from Pacific Lutheran University, where I competed on the swim team all four of years there. I love swimming because it is a life long skill that can give you some amazing memories, as well as save your life.
Adam M.
Tacoma, WA 98409
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi, my name is Adam. I have been involved in aquatics for the better part of 17 years. My experience is summarized very briefly in that I can teach toddlers and adults to lose their fear of water in the least. Going on my eighth year now, I am a coach for Valley Aquatics Swim Team, and have formed a great rapport with the kids of 7-18 years and watch them grow in their swimming abilities as well as goal setting and valuing hard effort. I graduated from PLU with a degree in Psychology in 2010.
sydney h.
Gig Harbor, Washington 98335
Sunsational Certified Since 2020
Hi, my name is Sydney Hoover and Ive been teaching swim lessons for 10 years with ages 6 months to adults. Ive taught junior water polo for 3 years with ages 6 to 16. Im currently working to complete my pilot license to become a commercial pilot. I was a student-athlete for Westcliff University in water polo, swimming, and cross country. I love teaching swimming because I love working with kids and sharing my passion for swimming.
Scott L.
Bellevue, Washington 98004
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Scott! I have been a swim instructor since February 2017, teaching kids ranging from 6 months to 13 years old. I have been a swimmer my whole life and cant wait to teach you swim lessons.
Adelle P.
Puyallup, Washington 98371
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi! My name is Adelle Patton, and I am currently a senior in high school, planning to go to Gallaudet University. I have been swimming for 10+ years, on club teams, and then for my high school on varsity. I have been a swim instructor for 2 years now and have a passion for swimming and love teaching kids how to swim :).
Lauren A.
University Place, Washington 98466
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hello, my name is Lauren Ahearn and I have been teaching swim lessons for 5 years with ages from infants to adults. I have a competitive swimming background of 11 years and love to work with new people. I have also worked with kids on other occasions as well as I have 2 boys myself. I have worked through fears, challenges, and special gifts to help others become one with the water and feel like they can overcome anything no matter the circumstances. I am looking forward to working with you!
Sarah S.
Seattle, WA 98105
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, my name is Sarah and I have been teaching swim lessons for 15+ years to children 6 months and older as well as adults. This includes children and adults with special needs or a fear of the water. I have worked with children for 15+ years as a paraeducator, nanny, volunteer, and swim coach. I have a degree in kinesiology and human development and am working on my Masters. As a swimmer myself I enjoy teaching swim lessons because it gives me the opportunity to share my love for the water.
Alyssa L.
Tacoma, Washington 98445
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, my name is Alyssa. I have coached swim lessons since February 2022, for ages 4 to 30 years old, and ranging from solo to 6+ swimmers. I have over 10 years of swimming experience, and I have coached more than 100 students over the years with successful results. I am a 3x certified lifeguard. I have worked for five different pools and waterparks. So much fun! I love to teach swimming because it gives opportunities for all ages at any level to learn or better improve a life skill that is also beneficial to them!
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Find out if a Sunsational Swim instructor is in your area
Available all across the USA!
Got questions?
We have answers. When is the best time for adults to start swim lessons?
We make scheduling easy. Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend lessons are avaialble 6AM-8PM to fit your family’s lifestyle. You choose the days, times and number of lessons per week that works for you. Because all lessons are private, scheduling is completely flexible and can be adjusted for vacations or weather. In Des Moines, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever you’re ready.
Yes — adults can absolutely learn to swim at any age. Sunsational Swim School specializes in private, at-home adult swim lessons that meet you where you are, from complete beginner to stroke refinement. Our certified, background-checked instructors use a safety-first approach and one-on-one instruction to build confidence, comfort, and efficient technique.
Many adult learners see meaningful progress in just 4 to 12 lessons with regular practice. If you’re searching for “private swim instructor near me” or swim lessons in Des Moines, our flexible scheduling, mobile swim instructors and personalized lesson plans make it easy to fit learning into your life.
While everyone learns at their own pace, we can give you a realistic timeline based on thousands of adult students. We see most beginners who take consistent private lessons in Des Moines achieve these milestones:
- Within 1-3 lessons: Comfortably submerge their face, control their breathing, and perform a supported back float. The initial fear begins to fade.
- Within 4-8 lessons: Can swim a short distance (10-15 feet) unassisted using a basic freestyle or elementary backstroke. They can also safely recover to a standing position.
- Within 8-12 lessons: Develop the endurance and technique to swim the length of a typical backyard pool with confidence.
We understand that a real fear of water is not something you can just "get over." Our entire approach is built on trust and control. Here’s what it looks like:
You Are Always in Control: We start where you can comfortably stand, often on the pool steps. Your instructor will never push, splash, or rush you.
It Starts with Breathing: The very first skill your Sunsational instructor works with you is often breath control—learning to blow bubbles. This one simple action calms the nervous system and gives you a sense of command in the water.
We Demystify Floating: We explain the physics of why your body wants to float. We then guide you through it with full support, so you can feel the water holding you up without any risk. This is the "aha!" moment for most anxious swimmers.
One-on-one lessons are tailored to your objectives: water confidence, breath control, stroke mechanics, endurance, or open-water readiness. Safety skills such as floating, treading water, and emergency recovery are emphasized from day one. Your instructor will break complex skills into manageable drills, correct body position and timing, and add focused practice to accelerate improvement.
Our instructors are certified, background-checked, and CPR-trained, and lessons are delivered privately at your home pool for convenience. If you search “private swim instructor near me,” you’ll find Sunsational Swim School offers flexible lesson lengths and scheduling to match your lifestyle.
Your first lesson is all about comfort and confidence. Your instructor will assess your current ability, demonstrate proper breathing and floating techniques, and help you relax in the water. There’s no pressure to perform—just a calm, step-by-step introduction to swimming safely and efficiently.
Absolutely. Our advanced coaches teach the nuanced mechanics that define an efficient stroke. For freestyle, we move beyond the basics and focus on key areas of propulsion, like the high-elbow catch (early vertical forearm). We also offer advanced training for breaststroke, butterfly, backstroke, triathlon and more in our private at-home swim lesson programs available in Des Moines.
We understand if you're concerned about selecting the right swim instructor for your lessons, because we are too! Our full-time, dedicated matching team carefully reviews your registration and hand selects a swim instructor for your lessons based on your swimmer's age, goals and your schedule. You'll receive a detailed instructor profile with experience, certifications, and reviews. If you'd like to request a specific instructor in Des Moines, we'll do our best to accommodate. But rest assured that we stand behind each of our swim instructors and selections with our Satisfaction Guarantee.