Masters swimming is a vibrant and inclusive community for adults who love to swim — whether for fitness, competition, or social connection. Since 1977, the Spencer Swim Team has built a respected community sports club that brings swimmers together based on this appeal. Many prospective members misunderstand the term “Masters,” but it simply refers to adult swimmers typically aged 18 and over who actively engage in organised training, competitions, and community-based swimming activities.
Masters swimming revolves around personal improvement and enjoyment. Participants include former competitive swimmers, triathletes, and those who have discovered the pool later in life. Some thrive on the excitement of racing in scheduled events throughout the year, while others seek fitness, and many cherish the camaraderie both in the water and beyond. The structured coaching in a masters program enables adults to train purposefully, with sessions tailored to individual ability levels that focus on technique development, aerobic conditioning, and speed work.
Masters swimming is overseen by the national governing body, Swim England Masters, which promotes adult swimming through local clubs, sanctioned meets, and open-water events. Masters competitions are organised by age groups, usually in five-year bands (25–29, 30–34, 35–39, and so on, all the way up to 100-104), creating a level playing field that encourages lifelong participation. Many swimmers involved in masters swimming find renewed motivation through setting goals, tracking progress, and celebrating achievements both big and small.
Beyond the stopwatch, masters swimming fosters community and wellbeing. Training together encourages accountability, friendship, and fun — essential ingredients that keep swimmers returning to the pool. Plus, there are many social opportunities within the club and across the swimming community, with swimmers often making life-long friends. The low-impact nature of swimming makes it ideal for maintaining fitness and mobility throughout life. Many masters swimmers report improved physical health, mental clarity, and stress reduction.
Whether you’re aiming to compete at national championships or simply swim a few laps with good company, masters swimming offers a flexible, supportive environment. It’s a reminder that the love of the water doesn’t fade with age — it evolves, deepens, and continues to inspire. For many, joining a masters program is not just a return to swimming, but a rediscovery of why they fell in love with it in the first place.
Dive in — the masters swimming community is waiting to welcome you to a life of health, wellbeing and fun. Sign up for a free trial with Spencer Swim Team now!
Based outside London? You can also join our club as an out-of-town member and benefit from being part of our community, giving you access to competitions and relay opportunities.