Hello! My name is Mackenzie, and I am pleased to provide you with details about the 1 hour Private/Semi-Private swimming lessons I offer at two Hotels located in Calgary.
From a very young age I have had a passion for swimming and a deep affection for aquatics. Growing up in Red Deer, I engaged in various swimming lessons, water sport classes, and programs such as the Junior Lifeguard Club. Over the past ten years, I have gained extensive experience in both lifeguarding and instructing, with a few years’ expertise in AquaFit instruction and pool management. Throughout my career, I have worked at six different pools (multiple at the same time), exposing me to diverse pool structures and depths.
I currently hold the following valid certifications:
• National Lifeguard
• Swim Instructor/Examiner
• Lifesaving/CPR Instructor/Examiner
• SwimAbilities Instructor
• Standard First Aid Level C-AED
• First Aid Instructor
• Community Official
**For eight years, I was also certified as a Water Safety Instructor and Adapted Aquatics Instructor with the Canadian Red Cross, prior to their discontinuation of their swimming program.
Swimming is a progressive sport that requires mastering skills before moving on to the next stage. Therefore, it is common for individuals of all ages to find that progression may take considerable time. The key components of successful swimming instruction are technique and practice. As an instructor, witnessing a swimmer conquer their fears and accomplish tasks they never thought possible, is truly gratifying. Observing personal growth and the development of water confidence is what motivates me to continue in this profession. I possess experience in teaching all age groups and abilities, firmly believing that ANYONE can learn to swim, to a certain extent, based on their physical and mental capabilities. I advocate for everyone to at the very least learn the fundamental skill of floating on their backs, as it can potentially save lives in dangerous water situations.
I have become well-known for my instruction of preschool to elementary-aged children (ages 3-10). Frequently, parents request my services for their children's subsequent lesson sets, as I strive to establish a personal connection with each swimmer. This connection is crucial in building their confidence and facilitating quicker progress. While I am comfortable teaching individuals of all ages, including adults, I understand that breathing techniques tend to be the most challenging aspect for adult learners. Hence, I allocate a few minutes at the start of adult classes to specifically address these techniques.
As a dedicated swimming instructor with a positive attitude, I am committed to providing the best possible experience for you and/or your child. I tailor my instruction to individual needs and develop plans that are both surrounding learning and challenges. While I supply my own equipment to enhance the learning process, you are welcome to bring your own equipment, which I will gladly incorporate into the lessons. I highly recommend bringing your own goggles to the lesson(s), as it can significantly boost confidence and comfort by enabling clear underwater vision.
Beyond my involvement with Propel, I hold a full-time position as an Aquatics Assistant Manager at a charitable Recreation Centre in Calgary, which caters to individuals of all abilities. Although my role primarily involves administrative work, I maintain close proximity to the pool and continue to contribute to the training of lifeguards and instructors as well as teaching First Aid classes. Despite spending most days behind a desk, my love for lifeguarding and teaching swimming lessons remains unwavering. Thus, I am always thrilled to jump into the pool with individuals who book lessons with me through Propel!
I have uploaded my Winter 24/25 availability on the Propel website. To secure your desired time slot in the limited pool time available, I encourage you to book lesson(s) as soon as possible! I hope this information provides you with a glimpse of who I am, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with you and/or your child.
Last Updated: December 1st, 2024
(Kindly note that each 1-hour lesson/booking can accommodate a maximum of 2 swimmers. For further inquiries or additional information regarding this, please refer to the Propel website.)
