Frequently Asked Questions
No question is too small. Below you will find answers to the questions we are asked most often.
1. Getting started
How do I register for swimming lessons?
You can start by booking a try-out lesson. During the try-out, we assess your level, introduce you to our way of teaching, and help you find the most suitable lesson option.
After the try-out, our office team will contact you to discuss whether you would like to continue.
Can I sign up together with a friend or partner?
Yes! You can both register and mention your request in the notes section of the registration form.
We will do our best to schedule you together, depending on your level and availability.
Can I bring a friend or family member to my lesson?
Friends or family members are welcome to wait in the cafeteria while you take your lesson.
They are not allowed inside the pool area during regular lessons. The only exception is during diploma events, where guests may be allowed to watch.
2. Learning process and progress
Am I too old to learn how to swim?
No. It is never too late to learn how to swim.
We teach adults of all ages. Confidence, patience, and regular practice are much more important than age.
I am afraid of water. Can I still learn to swim?
Yes. Many adults who come to us feel nervous, uncomfortable, or afraid in the water.
Our coaches work step by step and at your pace. We focus first on building confidence, breathing, floating, and feeling safe before moving on to swimming strokes.
If your fear of water is linked to a traumatic experience, please let us know. We can help you find the most suitable lesson type.
I have tried swimming lessons before, but I still cannot swim. Should I try again?
Yes. Many of our swimmers have tried to learn before.
At Your Personal Swim Coach, we start with the basics and build from there. You will not be rushed. Your coach will help you develop confidence, control, and technique step by step.
How is my progress tracked?
Your progress is tracked in your personal Zwemscore account.
Each level is divided into learning points. Your coach updates your progress so you can see which skills you are working on and what you have already achieved.
How can I improve my progress?
The best way to improve is to attend lessons consistently, preferably every week.
You can also support your progress by watching our instructional videos, booking extra lessons, or taking private lessons for additional personal attention. In the higher levels, practicing during public swimming hours will be helpful as well.
Are adult swimming lessons the same as children’s swimming lessons?
No. Adults often need a different approach.
With adults, we usually spend more time on water confidence, breathing, relaxation, and understanding the movement. Once you feel safer and more comfortable in the water, learning strokes and swimming technique becomes much easier.
Do most people float in water?
Most people can learn to float, but floating feels different for everyone.
Floating depends on body position, breathing, relaxation, and body composition. Your coach will help you practice floating in a safe and supportive way.
3. Subscriptions, payment and attendance
What is the Regular Subscription?
With the Regular Subscription, you have a fixed weekly spot in the same group, on the same day and at the same time.
This is the option we recommend for most swimmers, because regular attendance leads to the best progress.
What is the Irregular Subscription?
The Irregular Subscription is for swimmers who cannot commit to a fixed weekly lesson.
With this option, you do not have a fixed weekly spot. Instead, you buy lesson credits and book available lessons yourself through Zwemscore. Please note that all lessons are subject to availability.
I travel a lot or have an irregular schedule. Can I still take lessons?
Yes. If weekly attendance is difficult, the Irregular Subscription may be a better option.
However, for the best results, we still recommend booking lessons as regularly as possible.
How does payment work?
Lessons are billed monthly. Your monthly fee is based on the number of lessons scheduled in that month.
Payment is collected automatically from your bank account. If you start halfway through a month, the remaining lessons for that month will be charged separately.
You can find more information on our prices and payment conditions page.
What is the cancellation policy?
We have an 8-hour cancellation policy.
If you cannot attend a lesson, you must cancel it through Zwemscore at least 8 hours before the lesson starts. If you cancel on time, you will receive a make-up credit.
If you cancel too late or do not attend, the lesson is lost and cannot be refunded or rescheduled.
Why can’t the 8-hour cancellation policy be waived?
We understand that unexpected situations can happen. However, the 8-hour cancellation policy applies to all swimmers.
Our coaches, pool space, and group planning are arranged in advance. At short notice, we cannot always fill your spot or adjust the planning.
Cancellations must be made through Zwemscore. We cannot process cancellations by email, phone, WhatsApp, or verbally.
What should I do if I will miss one or more lessons?
Please cancel your lesson through Zwemscore at least 8 hours before the lesson starts.
If you cancel on time, you will receive a make-up credit. You can use this credit to book another available lesson!
How do I pause or stop my subscription?
If you want to pause or stop your subscription, please contact us.
If you are unavailable for a longer period but would like to return later, switching to the Irregular Subscription may be a better option than cancelling fully. Let us know at least one month in advance.
If you want to stop your subscription completely, we need at least one month’s notice.
What is the registration fee for?
The registration fee covers the processing of your registration and your try-out lesson.
During the try-out, we welcome you at the pool, assess your level, and help determine the best next step in your learning process.
The registration fee is non-refundable.
4. Zwemscore and make-up credits
What is Zwemscore?
Zwemscore is the online platform we use to track your progress and manage your schedule.
After each class, your score is updated and your coach adds written feedback. You can also use Zwemscore to manage your classes — including cancelling sessions or booking make-up lessons.
What is a make-up credit?
A make-up credit is a lesson credit you receive when you cancel your regular lesson on time.
You can use this credit to book another available lesson at a different time or location, as long as it matches your level.
Do make-up credits expire?
Make-up credits do not expire, but you can have a maximum of 7 make-up credits on your account.
Once you reach this maximum, you will not receive additional credits until you use some of them.
Are make-up credits refundable?
No. Make-up credits are not refundable.
We recommend using your make-up credits before stopping your subscription.
How do I book a make-up lesson?
Click on ‘Make-up lesson‘ under the ‘Lessons‘ button. You will then see all available classes in your level.
Be sure to check the location before you book the class!
How do I cancel a booked make-up lesson?
A lesson can be canceled up until 8 hours before it starts.
Click on ‘Make-up lesson‘ under the ‘Lessons‘ button. Browse to the make up lesson you have booked and hit ‘Cancel’ on the right. Then, don’t forget to hit ‘Sign off‘.
You will receive a confirmation e-mail right away.
Can I book a lesson at another location or time?
Yes, if there is availability.
Make-up credits can be used for available lessons at different locations, times, or pools, as long as the lesson matches your level.
I cannot log in to Zwemscore. What should I do?
We got you!
Our Customer Service is more than happy to help you out.
Click here to visit our contact page.
5. Private lessons
How can I book a private try-out lesson?
You can book a private try-out lesson through the registration form.
Choose the private lesson option in the “Sign up for” field and select your preferred location.
Do I need private lessons to learn how to swim?
Not necessarily.
Many beginners think they need private lessons because they feel nervous or believe they are far behind others. In reality, many swimmers at beginner level are working on similar skills.
Small group lessons can be very effective and motivating. Private lessons are a good option if you need more personal attention, have a specific fear of water, or prefer a more individual approach.
6. Female swimmers and personal preferences
Can I swim in a burkini or with a veil?
Yes. You are welcome to swim in a burkini or suitable swimwear that makes you feel comfortable.
We welcome swimmers from many different backgrounds and cultures.
Can I swim during my period?
Yes, if you feel comfortable and use suitable menstrual products, you can still attend your lesson.
Some swimmers prefer to rest during their period, while others feel fine swimming. Please choose what feels right for you.
If you cannot attend, the regular 8-hour cancellation policy still applies.
My period started unexpectedly. Can the cancellation policy be waived?
Unfortunately, the 8-hour cancellation policy still applies.
We recommend cancelling in advance if there is a chance you may not be able to attend. If you later feel well enough to swim after all, you can contact us to check whether your spot is still available.
I am a Muslim woman and have specific preferences. What is possible?
We will always do our best to make you feel welcome and comfortable.
However, our lessons take place in public or rented pool facilities. This means we cannot guarantee that there will be no male swimmers, visitors, or staff present. Our small group lessons are mixed.
In the location of Amsterdam Oost – Sportfondsenbad we have a beginner class for women only. Make sure to sign up for the ‘WOMEN ONLY’ waiting list!
If you have specific preferences, private or private elite lessons may be a better option. Please contact our office team so we can discuss what is possible.
Can I request a female coach?
You can request a female coach, and we will do our best to take this into account.
However, we cannot always guarantee a female coach. Our team includes both male and female coaches, and availability depends on location, time, and level.
All our coaches are professionals and are trained to respect personal and cultural boundaries.
7. Diploma swimming
Why should I go for a swimming diploma?
A diploma is a great way to celebrate your progress and prove your swimming ability.
Your Personal Swim Coach follows the ENVOZ Survival diploma program. This means the diploma includes swimming strokes as well as important survival skills.
A swimming diploma can also be useful for certain jobs, sports, or water activities where proof of swimming ability may be requested.
How can I obtain an official A, B, or C swimming diploma?
Our diploma events take place several times a year.
Your coach will let you know when you meet the criteria to join a diploma event. You can also check our calendar for upcoming diploma dates at different locations.
What are the costs for the diploma event?
The diploma event fee is charged in addition to the regular lesson fee.
You will receive the invoice from our office before the event.
Find out more about our current pricing here.
What is the value of an ENVOZ swimming diploma?
The ENVOZ Survival diploma is an official swimming diploma that includes both regular swimming skills and survival exercises.
The diploma is printed in several languages and may be useful for work, sports, or other situations where swimming ability needs to be shown.
The diploma date does not suit me. What can I do?
If the planned diploma date does not work for you, you may be able to join a diploma event at another location.
The program and requirements are the same. If you are unfamiliar with that pool, you may want to book an extra lesson there in advance.
What should I wear during diploma swimming?
The required clothing depends on the diploma level. We will send you the exact information before the event.
For diploma A, you usually need:
- A blouse or T-shirt
- Shorts
- Socks
- Shoes
- Swimwear
For diploma B, you usually need:
- Socks
- Trousers
- A long-sleeved T-shirt
- Sports shoes
- Swimwear
For diploma C, you usually need:
- Socks
- Trousers
- A sweater/jumper
- A raincoat or rain jacket
- Shoes
- Swimwear
Please bring a plastic bag to take your wet clothes home after the event.
Can I wear my swim cap or goggles during the diploma event?
No. The diploma event simulates real-life water situations, so swim caps and goggles are not allowed.
If you normally wear glasses, you should wear them during the diploma event as well.
I need an official swimming diploma for my future job. Can you help?
Yes. We follow the ENVOZ Survival diploma program and provide the official paper diploma after the event.
We have helped swimmers who needed a diploma for job applications, including roles where swimming ability is required.
If you need your diploma for a specific deadline or application, please contact us in advance.
Still have a question? Don’t hesitate to contact us.