Newbie here. Can someone help with question on swimming pools in The Villages?

[Laura T.]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

[retiredguy123]

I would suggest that you go to "districtgov.org" for all pertinent information about the pool guidelines. But, here is an excerpt from that website:

"The Recreation Dept. strives to make the pools safe for everyone’s use and enjoyment. The neighborhood adult pools are intended for refreshing socialization and non-organized/scheduled activities. Regularly scheduled water exercise groups are encouraged to use the sports pool for this purpose. Please contact your nearest regional recreation center and we’ll get you started."

[Laura T.]

Will do! Thank you so much for the info!!

[VApeople]

Maybe your pool is not an adult pool. What is the name of your pool?

[Velvet]

Adult pools are not swimming pools. They are not meant to do sports in of any kind. They are meant for socializing. That means you walk in them or talk in them like in a large hot tub. Now when no one is using the pool, you can swim laps or use aquatic equipment. The idea is to defer to the people on the pool for the purpose it was made. The problems arise when people do not respect the purpose usage of these pools when there are others in it. Sort of like no one under 30 should be in the water. If you find people are disregarding these rules and it disturbs you, call community watch or the rec center and they will handle the situation.

[Altavia]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

The number to call to find out should be on the board that lists rules for the pool.

[retiredguy123]

Maybe your pool is not an adult pool. What is the name of your pool?
As I understand it, the adult pools are mostly located at the postal centers where you pick up your mail. The family pools are located at the village rec centers, where they have billiards tables and card rooms. The sports pools are located at the large regional rec centers, where you can get an ID card and do other administrative things.

[retiredguy123]

It sounds to me that the OP needs to have a conversation with the village rec center manager who oversees the adult pool. He/she should tell the exercise class that they need to relocate the class to the nearest sports pool. They are not supposed to be conducting a regular exercise class at the adult pool. If that doesn't work, call the recreation department, 352-674-1800.

[VApeople]

As I understand it, the adult pools are mostly located at the postal centers where you pick up your mail.

That statement is "mostly" true, but not always.

The pool at Cattail is a family pool located at a postal station.

[Dusty_Star]

Adult pools are not swimming pools. They are not meant to do sports in of any kind. They are meant for socializing. That means you walk in them or talk in them like in a large hot tub. Now when no one is using the pool, you can swim laps or use aquatic equipment. The idea is to defer to the people on the pool for the purpose it was made. The problems arise when people do not respect the purpose usage of these pools when there are others in it. Sort of like no one under 30 should be in the water. If you find people are disregarding these rules and it disturbs you, call community watch or the rec center and they will handle the situation.

I don't quite understand, are you saying that it is first come first served? IE: if no one is in the pool, people may swim. Similarly, if no one is in the pool people may exercise?

& if people are either swiming or exercising, & someone else comes along who wants to walk, lounge, or talk, then they have priority?

[Bogie Shooter]

As retiredguy posted....go to Village Community Development Districts (http://www.districtgov.org).
Further click on recreation department, then Pool Information.
Most all of the above questions have answers there......

[retiredguy123]

That statement is "mostly" true, but not always.

The pool at Cattail is a family pool located at a postal station.
That's why I said mostly.

[AMB444]

Is there an online map of the pools in TV?

[Velvet]

I don't quite understand, are you saying that it is first come first served? IE: if no one is in the pool, people may swim. Similarly, if no one is in the pool people may exercise?

& if people are either swiming or exercising, & someone else comes along who wants to walk, lounge, or talk, then they have priority?

Yes… and no. The purpose of the adult pools are to socialize, think large hot tub. But when there is no one in the pool, who is going to report you? You are not disturbing anyone.

So, suppose in the morning you start swimming, you are the only one in the pool, back and forth lengthwise. Or scuba swimming as I have see some people do. Then one or more person comes in the water who wants to walk sideways or just stand and talk with others, then the swimmer should either stop, or swim carefully around not splashing the expensive hairdos carefully kept out of the water by the ladies who have come to cool off and talk etc. When there are more people, like in the winter, mostly standing in the water and talking, no one should try to swim around everyone. If there is room sometimes across the pool, maybe. The thing is use your discretion.

The idea is not to disturb those people who have come to socialize. They are called neighborhood adult pools because that is their intended function. If you want to swim laps or have a class then use the sports pools. That is what they are built for. If you have family under 30 years of age use the family pools, that is what they are built for. If you don’t like these rules, don’t come to The Villages.

I am not sure I made myself clear, people who come to socialize not only have priority but are doing the intended things. People who come to exercise can do so as long as they are not a nuisance to others. If they do become a nuisance they can, and often will be, reported. Community watch will come out and if they are a nuisance they will be asked to stop.

[frayedends]

OP: did this group tell you that could not stay and had to leave, or did they just tell you when there class was? I guess I would have stayed put and let them know if they were disturbing me. But I'm not put off by bully groups. :D

[Rainger99]

Pools - The Villages 101 (https://thevillages101.com/pools-in-the-villages/)

https://districtgov.org/departments/Recreation/images/RecMap.pdf

[Rainger99]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

What is the name of your pool?

Is it a sports, family, or adult pool??

[Velvet]

OP: did this group tell you that could not stay and had to leave, or did they just tell you when their class was? I guess I would have stayed put and let them know if they were disturbing me. But I'm not put off by bully groups. :D

Neither has the “right” in an adult pool. Why is the concept so difficult for some people? Think it’s like socializing on your driveway and someone wants to do jumping jacks. If no one is on the driveway who cares? But if you keep jumping on the toes of someone when there is a party… that is why I said use your discretion. Not entitlement, you’ll get further. They don’t have to bully you. An anonymous call to Community Watch is all that is needed. TV is a complaint driven enforcement place.

[AMB444]

Pools - The Villages 101 (https://thevillages101.com/pools-in-the-villages/)

https://districtgov.org/departments/Recreation/images/RecMap.pdf

Thank you, this is exactly what I was looking for!

[Number 10 GI]

Neither has the “right” in an adult pool. Why is the concept so difficult for some people? Think it’s like socializing on your driveway and someone wants to do jumping jacks. If no one is on the driveway who cares? But if you keep jumping on the toes of someone when there is a party… that is why I said use your discretion. Not entitlement, you’ll get further. They don’t have to bully you. An anonymous call to Community Watch is all that is needed. TV is a complaint driven enforcement place.

I read the link Ranger99 posted referencing pools. I read nothing about adult pools being strictly for "socializing". Back up your claim with a link that states your contention.

[fdpaq0580]

The community/adult pools are (imho) for the use and enjoyment of all residents from opening till closing 24/7/365. The water exercise and aerobic classes do not belong in those pools. If they belong in any of the pools at all, I would expect the "family/guest" pools would be the best choice for several reasons. The sports pools, being the only actual swimming pools, may, imo, be used for other sports ("exercise" does not equal "sport") as long as there is always swim lanes available for SWIMMING!

[Velvet]

I read the link Ranger99 posted referencing pools. I read nothing about adult pools being strictly for "socializing". Back up your claim with a link that states your contention.

My parents were here since Mr Shwartz started these pools. The original intent of adult pools was to socialize. Notice they are not “activity” pools. The idea was that children play and are loud etc and adults would like a quiet restful time to enjoy each other. A gathering place where you get to know each other, exchange stories, ideas, things to do etc. The ones who wanted activities had special pools built for them which are called activity pools. You can’t mix activities and relaxation in the same water so the adult pools were made smaller than the activity pools.

In my observation coming to visit relatives since 1992, the younger age group, say in their 60’s are mostly full of whim and vinegar, ready to boogey in the water. The older group 80’s and 90’s enjoy a dip and conversation, perhaps walking back and forth, in the water. Now as the younger group gets older, they become the more relaxed ones (after hip and knee surgeries, strokes etc). But by then new ones move in expecting any water to be the only thing they have ever known, a “swimming pool”.

A happy Village tries to accommodated as many residents’ hopes as best they can. One way is that the “active” ones go at times when the “relaxed” ones are not there.

[Triker]

Clarendon has a family pool at the mail station

[MandoMan]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

You are free to use any available pool, and there are probably several more within a five minute drive in your car. I’m sorry the class was a problem for you.

[golfing eagles]

You are free to use any available pool, and there are probably several more within a five minute drive in your car. I’m sorry the class was a problem for you.

Whoa!!!! Why should the OP be forced to choose another pool because some group is taking over and running an activity that is not permitted in that type of pool????? Maybe the group should be going to a sports pool, not a neighborhood pool.

[bowlingal]

adult pools are supervised by the nearest rec center, so go to the nearest rec center and tell them of the situation. they will, then, go to the pool and and find out what's exactly going on. Exercise classes should only be done at sports pools ( residents only and over 30 yo), and only the times listed on the schedule. The schedule can be found in the rec news ( sports pool section) OR on the bulletin board posted outside the locker rooms/bathrooms. I suspect these people are NOT residents.

[bowlingal]

fdpaq...you are wrong, wrong, wrong. Exercise classes are ONLY at sports pools, as well as water sports. Check the sports pool section in the rec news. Family/adult pools are NEVER for water aerobics at ANY time. Sports pools are for residents only and you must be over 30. The rules for each pool is posted right on the wall.

[Papa_lecki]

fdpaq...you are wrong, wrong, wrong. Exercise classes are ONLY at sports pools, as well as water sports. Check the sports pool section in the rec news. Family/adult pools are NEVER for water aerobics at ANY time. Sports pools are for residents only and you must be over 30. The rules for each pool is posted right on the wall.

It’s possible it is not an organized class, just a bunch of ladies getting together at a pool near them, to exercise, they probably think they picked a slow time and arent bothering anyone.

[Slick327EFI]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

To get the offical information, contact the Recreation Center that is responsible for that pool. They are the ones in charge of everything and anything that happens there.

[golfing eagles]

To get the offical information, contact the Recreation Center that is responsible for that pool. They are the ones in charge of everything and anything that happens there.

Good advice. I only wish other people had posted exactly the same thing on this thread on multiple earlier posts.:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[crash]

Yes… and no. The purpose of the adult pools are to socialize, think large hot tub. But when there is no one in the pool, who is going to report you? You are not disturbing anyone.

So, suppose in the morning you start swimming, you are the only one in the pool, back and forth lengthwise. Or scuba swimming as I have see some people do. Then one or more person comes in the water who wants to walk sideways or just stand and talk with others, then the swimmer should either stop, or swim carefully around not splashing the expensive hairdos carefully kept out of the water by the ladies who have come to cool off and talk etc. When there are more people, like in the winter, mostly standing in the water and talking, no one should try to swim around everyone. If there is room sometimes across the pool, maybe. The thing is use your discretion.

The idea is not to disturb those people who have come to socialize. They are called neighborhood adult pools because that is their intended function. If you want to swim laps or have a class then use the sports pools. That is what they are built for. If you have family under 30 years of age use the family pools, that is what they are built for. If you don’t like these rules, don’t come to The Villages.

I am not sure I made myself clear, people who come to socialize not only have priority but are doing the intended things. People who come to exercise can do so as long as they are not a nuisance to others. If they do become a nuisance they can, and often will be, reported. Community watch will come out and if they are a nuisance they will be asked to stop.
So do all pools have Velvets rules or just the ones you want to use because these are not the posted pool rules or those at district.gov.

[seecapecod]

Yes… and no. The purpose of the adult pools are to socialize, think large hot tub. But when there is no one in the pool, who is going to report you? You are not disturbing anyone.

So, suppose in the morning you start swimming, you are the only one in the pool, back and forth lengthwise. Or scuba swimming as I have see some people do. Then one or more person comes in the water who wants to walk sideways or just stand and talk with others, then the swimmer should either stop, or swim carefully around not splashing the expensive hairdos carefully kept out of the water by the ladies who have come to cool off and talk etc. When there are more people, like in the winter, mostly standing in the water and talking, no one should try to swim around everyone. If there is room sometimes across the pool, maybe. The thing is use your discretion.

The idea is not to disturb those people who have come to socialize. They are called neighborhood adult pools because that is their intended function. If you want to swim laps or have a class then use the sports pools. That is what they are built for. If you have family under 30 years of age use the family pools, that is what they are built for. If you don’t like these rules, don’t come to The Villages.

I am not sure I made myself clear, people who come to socialize not only have priority but are doing the intended things. People who come to exercise can do so as long as they are not a nuisance to others. If they do become a nuisance they can, and often will be, reported. Community watch will come out and if they are a nuisance they will be asked to stop.

This is the first time in my 4 years in TV that I’ve heard that the adult pools are not for swimming! There are so many other places where one can “socialize” why take over a pool where people could also get some low impact exercise in from swimming or at least walking in the pool.

[TomDTV]

Swimming in any pool other than sports pools is almost impossible. As others have said, the adult or family pools are pretty much for socializing. I tried swimming in adult pool when I first got here 2 years ago and while people didn't care, I had to dodge them as they were walking.

[Rzepecki]

I don't quite understand, are you saying that it is first come first served? IE: if no one is in the pool, people may swim. Similarly, if no one is in the pool people may exercise?

& if people are either swiming or exercising, & someone else comes along who wants to walk, lounge, or talk, then they have priority?

Exactly!

[jasamy2]

As I understand it, the adult pools are mostly located at the postal centers where you pick up your mail. The family pools are located at the village rec centers, where they have billiards tables and card rooms. The sports pools are located at the large regional rec centers, where you can get an ID card and do other administrative things.
Perfect explanation.

[Rocksnap]

Why those ladies may not be bothering anyone, now they are. It appears if the group should move their excercise time to a “correct” pool to hold scheduled sessions in.

[Angelhug52]

Adult pools are not swimming pools. They are not meant to do sports in of any kind. They are meant for socializing. That means you walk in them or talk in them like in a large hot tub. Now when no one is using the pool, you can swim laps or use aquatic equipment. The idea is to defer to the people on the pool for the purpose it was made. The problems arise when people do not respect the purpose usage of these pools when there are others in it. Sort of like no one under 30 should be in the water. If you find people are disregarding these rules and it disturbs you, call community watch or the rec center and they will handle the situation.
Welcome to the " friendly" Villages. This has been going on for years. The rules are for others since enforcement is non existing. Sad. Best to look at schedule for sports pools and go during open swim, lap swim. And don't dare tell a grand parent to take their family to the family pool. After all the neighborhood pool allows them to hang there! Be careful of dogs loose near mail stations as well. After a while you get use to rule breaking , stay calm, you cannot change things without becoming
the neighborhood grump.

[DrHitch]

Is there an online map of the pools in TV?

YES...I have an interactive map that includes the THREE types of pools here:

Map of Places - The Villages 101 (http://www.thevillages101.com/map)

[DrHitch]

Is there an online map of the pools in TV?

YES...I have an interactive map that includes the THREE types of pools here:

Map of Places - The Villages 101 (http://www.thevillages101.com/map)

[Laura T.]

Maybe your pool is not an adult pool. What is the name of your pool?

It is, thanks. It's the Moultrie Creek Rec center Adult pool. I chose my home based on its location.

[Laura T.]

Thank, it is. It's the Moultrie Creek Recreation Center ADULT pool. I actually chose my home in relation to it's location because swimming is one of the few things I can physically do after back surgery years ago. I can't enjoy most other sports here, but am satisfied to use the pool, walk, golf cart, shop eat and party!

[Laura T.]

OP: did this group tell you that could not stay and had to leave, or did they just tell you when there class was? I guess I would have stayed put and let them know if they were disturbing me. But I'm not put off by bully groups. :D

No, they never asked us to leave, but asked us to join them. We were already there, swimming, talking and enjoying ourselves when people started to come in, telling us they were getting ready for a class, and we were "welcome" to join them. We didn't want to join them, we wanted to keep doing what we were doing, but then there were 24 in the pool, each with a noodle and a set of dumbbells, which left no room for anyone else to even move. Think, 24 people with their arms extended at their sides....leaves no room. We watched a bit, then left, realizing we either had to exercise with them, or leave. We were told the class occurs three days a week. Then the leader denies it's a class and when they are checked by The Villages pool checkers, they stop exercising and stand there pretending to swim and socialize so they don't get caught. It feels like high school all over again!

[Laura T.]

Moultrie Creek Recreation center Adult swimming pool, located near the postal boxes.

[retiredguy123]

No, they never asked us to leave, but asked us to join them. We were already there, swimming, talking and enjoying ourselves when people started to come in, telling us they were getting ready for a class, and we were "welcome" to join them. We didn't want to join them, we wanted to keep doing what we were doing, but then there were 24 in the pool, each with a noodle and a set of dumbbells, which left no room for anyone else to even move. Think, 24 people with their arms extended at their sides....leaves no room. We watched a bit, then left, realizing we either had to exercise with them, or leave. We were told the class occurs three days a week. Then the leader denies it's a class and when they are checked by The Villages pool checkers, they stop exercising and stand there pretending to swim and socialize so they don't get caught. It feels like high school all over again!
OP, I hope you complain to the proper recreation department employees, so they will stop the practice. It will help everyone who is affected by rule-breakers in The Villages. John Rohan is the executive director of the Recreation Department. The issue shouldn't need to get his level, but, if it does, I can almost guarantee that it will be resolved. He gets things done.

[Grill Meister]

I cannot recommend this hightly enough. Register in The Villages' Residents Academy. Very well done and a great introduction to The Villages:
You can also register in person at one of the District Customer Service Centers or at any Regional Recreation Center. If you have any questions, please call the Customer Service Center at 352-753-4508.

DO IT......you'll be glad your did!:welcome:

[fdpaq0580]

fdpaq...you are wrong, wrong, wrong. Exercise classes are ONLY at sports pools, as well as water sports. Check the sports pool section in the rec news. Family/adult pools are NEVER for water aerobics at ANY time. Sports pools are for residents only and you must be over 30. The rules for each pool is posted right on the wall.

I was giving my OPINION, thank you. Suggest you re-read my post just so you will be clear on my OPINION.
One reason for why I believe that the family pool would be the better choice for water exercise classes is it would lessen the impact on those who wish to relax/socialize at the resident adult pool, and those residents who wish to swim or walk or play a sport (water volleyball). The so called family pools are where guests and children should be. Thus, these pools seem more in tune with the noise and "play" type behavior of an exercise class.
Again, I am not saying this is how it is. I am only giving my opinion on how I think it should be.

[fdpaq0580]

Welcome to the " friendly" Villages. This has been going on for years. The rules are for others since enforcement is non existing. Sad. Best to look at schedule for sports pools and go during open swim, lap swim. And don't dare tell a grand parent to take their family to the family pool. After all the neighborhood pool allows them to hang there! Be careful of dogs loose near mail stations as well. After a while you get use to rule breaking , stay calm, you cannot change things without becoming
the neighborhood grump.

And, keep off my lawn! And that goes for your little dog, too!
Signed, The Neighborhood Grump. 😡😠🤬

[fdpaq0580]

No, they never asked us to leave, but asked us to join them. We were already there, swimming, talking and enjoying ourselves when people started to come in, telling us they were getting ready for a class, and we were "welcome" to join them. We didn't want to join them, we wanted to keep doing what we were doing, but then there were 24 in the pool, each with a noodle and a set of dumbbells, which left no room for anyone else to even move. Think, 24 people with their arms extended at their sides....leaves no room. We watched a bit, then left, realizing we either had to exercise with them, or leave. We were told the class occurs three days a week. Then the leader denies it's a class and when they are checked by The Villages pool checkers, they stop exercising and stand there pretending to swim and socialize so they don't get caught. It feels like high school all over again!

If you see this happen and have your phone, video it, zoom in on the leaders then pass it up the line. Maybe show it here on TOTV.

[wanttoknow]

Reside in courtyard villa neighborhood which has a family pool. Resident of this community holds regular water aerobics classes. Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes. and guess what....nothing can be done about this.

[Robojo]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

The problem is any time someone goes to use the sports pool it's full of volleyball players. The village just killed my dream of swimming laps every morning cause I can't get up at the crack of dawn to do it

[elevatorman]

Go here on an iPad or computer (phone to small) Flip to your pool. there is also a paper copy at the rec. center near you. https://online.flippingbook.com/view/10419946/40/

[tophcfa]

The problem is any time someone goes to use the sports pool it's full of volleyball players. The village just killed my dream of swimming laps every morning cause I can't get up at the crack of dawn to do it

That’s a legitimate problem, lap swimmers are typically only allocated swimming time either at the crack of dawn, or dusk (especially after the clocks get moved back an hour). And even then, it’s often combo swim time where only half the pool has lanes and water walkers sometimes use the swim lanes.

[Bill14564]

Reside in courtyard villa neighborhood which has a family pool. Resident of this community holds regular water aerobics classes. Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes. and guess what....nothing can be done about this.

"Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes."

From the District Gov information:
"Regularly scheduled water exercise groups are encouraged to use the Sports Pools for this purpose."

"...nothing can be done about this." Nothing can be done about what, being asked to coordinate pool time or answering "no, I won't?"

The adult pools cannot be reserved, particularly for a regularly scheduled group that should really meet at a sports pool. If a group is there exercising and there is no room for you then get their earlier next time. If you are in the adult pool and a group asks you to join or leave then politely say no and they can exercise around you.

There should be a courtesy phone at every pool. If an individual or group is being disruptive, call the responsible rec center and let them know.

But first, let's all try to get along.

[nn0wheremann]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?
The Villages is populated from all over the USA, Canada, and the UK, so people bring many regional habits and behaviors with them. Everything from “Minnesota Nice” to “Long-guyland Assertive”. Most folks follow the rules, but some follow from a greater distance than others, and sometimes rules are interpreted differently. At our adult pool residents of one particular street think they have a monopoly on the pool for a few hours on Mondays. Your pool’s exercise group seems a bit possessive with their three day a week activity. Mostly it is a matter of give and take. If you are a serious lap swimmer, you might consider using a sport pool during lap swimming times. Otherwise, get there before the exercisers, and claim your space.

[Bill14564]

The problem is any time someone goes to use the sports pool it's full of volleyball players. The village just killed my dream of swimming laps every morning cause I can't get up at the crack of dawn to do it

That’s a legitimate problem, lap swimmers are typically only allocated swimming time either at the crack of dawn, or dusk (especially after the clocks get moved back an hour). And even then, it’s often combo swim time where only half the pool has lanes and water walkers sometimes use the swim lanes.

Legitimate problem but what can be done? Are lap swimmers somehow more deserving of pool time than water walkers, aerobics classes, or volleyball activities? One could argue that lap swimming is the least efficient use of a limited resource with only one person per lane. Water walkers can usually fit two or three per lane and aerobics classes or volleyball games fit even more people into the pool. Most users feel their activity should get more time in the pool and perhaps the schedules could be adjusted but in the end they can't please everyone.

Is the schedule and the usage the same at every sports pool? Perhaps there is a pool that has lap swimming scheduled and lanes available at a more convenient time.

[pauld315]

No, they never asked us to leave, but asked us to join them. We were already there, swimming, talking and enjoying ourselves when people started to come in, telling us they were getting ready for a class, and we were "welcome" to join them. We didn't want to join them, we wanted to keep doing what we were doing, but then there were 24 in the pool, each with a noodle and a set of dumbbells, which left no room for anyone else to even move. Think, 24 people with their arms extended at their sides....leaves no room. We watched a bit, then left, realizing we either had to exercise with them, or leave. We were told the class occurs three days a week. Then the leader denies it's a class and when they are checked by The Villages pool checkers, they stop exercising and stand there pretending to swim and socialize so they don't get caught. It feels like high school all over again!

Absolutely not allowed. I am sure this is not a scheduled activity through the recreation department. It is most likely a bunch of neighbors getting together and forming a private "class" Complain to the Recreation department. I know that some people tried doing something similar a few years ago near us and it was quickly stopped. You live in a new area so it could just be ignorance of the rules. They will learn after a complaint is lodged.

[CFrance]

adult pools are supervised by the nearest rec center, so go to the nearest rec center and tell them of the situation. they will, then, go to the pool and and find out what's exactly going on. Exercise classes should only be done at sports pools ( residents only and over 30 yo), and only the times listed on the schedule. The schedule can be found in the rec news ( sports pool section) OR on the bulletin board posted outside the locker rooms/bathrooms. I suspect these people are NOT residents.
There have been threads in the past about these groups exercising in adult pools. Tthey won't necessarily do anything about it in the rec center. It has been taken all the way up to John Rohan, and he is reluctant to enforce the rule. Bottom line is TV does not want to anger any resident if they don't have/want to. This was a few years ago, though, so maybe their attitude regarding forcing the exercise group to use the sports pool has changed.
One problem is that the sports pools are jammed with classes and swimmers and sports. There's very little free time for social groups to conduct their own water aerobics. And to join one of the established ones means standing in line for a long time beforehand, hoping to get in.
I'm not in favor of exercise classes being held in adult pools. I'm just stating what the problems are. I have once in the past emailed the rec department about the issue. There was a very noncommittal answer from Rohan.

[sallyg]

Yes… and no. The purpose of the adult pools are to socialize, think large hot tub. But when there is no one in the pool, who is going to report you? You are not disturbing anyone.

So, suppose in the morning you start swimming, you are the only one in the pool, back and forth lengthwise. Or scuba swimming as I have see some people do. Then one or more person comes in the water who wants to walk sideways or just stand and talk with others, then the swimmer should either stop, or swim carefully around not splashing the expensive hairdos carefully kept out of the water by the ladies who have come to cool off and talk etc. When there are more people, like in the winter, mostly standing in the water and talking, no one should try to swim around everyone. If there is room sometimes across the pool, maybe. The thing is use your discretion.

The idea is not to disturb those people who have come to socialize. They are called neighborhood adult pools because that is their intended function. If you want to swim laps or have a class then use the sports pools. That is what they are built for. If you have family under 30 years of age use the family pools, that is what they are built for. If you don’t like these rules, don’t come to The Villages.

I am not sure I made myself clear, people who come to socialize not only have priority but are doing the intended things. People who come to exercise can do so as long as they are not a nuisance to others. If they do become a nuisance they can, and often will be, reported. Community watch will come out and if they are a nuisance they will be asked to stop.
What??? Since when?

[SaucyJim]

The class was not just a problem for the OP. The class is a problem for the rules of the adult pools. Apparently, this is rocket science. I never go to an adult pool with the intention to swim laps, but I can do some mellow breast strokes either lengthwise or widthwise when no one else is in the way. But I would never expect someone to keep a "lane" clear for me because I AM IN AN ADULT POOL.

When I want to swim laps, I find a sports pool that has open swim scheduled and carve out a roped lane and swim laps. What a concept! These group activities need to be coordinated at sports pools. End of story.

[SaucyJim]

Reside in courtyard villa neighborhood which has a family pool. Resident of this community holds regular water aerobics classes. Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes. and guess what....nothing can be done about this.

Nothing can be done? Really? Do I have to reference my "doing heroine in the town square for all to see" example AGAIN? LOL!!

Common sense is not so common after all.

[SaucyJim]

The problem is any time someone goes to use the sports pool it's full of volleyball players. The village just killed my dream of swimming laps every morning cause I can't get up at the crack of dawn to do it

There are schedules. I've NEVER gone to a sport pool full of volleyball players because I don't go to sports pools WHEN VOLLEYBALL IS SCHEDULED.

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills. LOL!

There are many open swim and lap swim opportunities. Rumor has it, most of us (not me - yet) are fully retired. Work with the schedules that exist and try to be flexible. You are retired, after all, right?

[Kelevision]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.

[retiredguy123]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.
Use the free Villages app, go to calendar, search for the name of a regional rec center, like Colony Cottage. It will show you the upcoming activities for that rec center, including the sports pool activities.

[Bogie Shooter]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.

Reread ??? Post 51.

[Velvet]

So do all pools have Velvets rules or just the ones you want to use because these are not the posted pool rules or those at district.gov.

If you don’t mind, “Velvet’s observations” would be more correct.

[Velvet]

This is the first time in my 4 years in TV that I’ve heard that the adult pools are not for swimming! There are so many other places where one can “socialize” why take over a pool where people could also get some low impact exercise in from swimming or at least walking in the pool.

I didn’t say or mean to say you can’t swim in adult pools, perhaps I was not clear, only that you can’t make yourself into a nuisance. I swim in the adult pools regularly myself, just carefully so I don’t disturb the others in the water. If I want to practice speed swimming etc (having been on the swim team for many years) I do it when the pool is empty. And it is considered socializing as you walk and talk in the pools which we often do just like strolling with your family on the street. Light aerobics rarely bothers anyone, you are usually doing it in one spot. Swimming is hard to do without splashing and in one spot.

[Velvet]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.

You are right, they are lazy, otherwise known as old and vulnerable people’s pools.

[Velvet]

Why those ladies may not be bothering anyone, now they are. It appears if the group should move their excercise time to a “correct” pool to hold scheduled sessions in.

Yep, or do it a time when you’re not going to bother the other residents who also have every right as you do, to enjoy the pool.

[Escape Artist]

It feels like high school all over again!

Unfortunately, that summation can be applied to many things in The Villages.

[Velvet]

Welcome to the " friendly" Villages. This has been going on for years. The rules are for others since enforcement is non existing. Sad. Best to look at schedule for sports pools and go during open swim, lap swim. And don't dare tell a grand parent to take their family to the family pool. After all the neighborhood pool allows them to hang there! Be careful of dogs loose near mail stations as well. After a while you get use to rule breaking , stay calm, you cannot change things without becoming
the neighborhood grump.

You are absolutely wrong about bringing people into the pool under 30. YOU don’t tell the grandparent, Community Watch sorry, I think it is Rec center employees, check IDs etc. Being a senior citizen simply doesn’t trump everything.

[Velvet]

And, keep off my lawn! And that goes for your little dog, too!
Signed, The Neighborhood Grump. 😡😠🤬

Yes, and there is a big difference between being friendly and being a doormat.

[Velvet]

Reside in courtyard villa neighborhood which has a family pool. Resident of this community holds regular water aerobics classes. Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes. and guess what....nothing can be done about this.

You are mistaken.

[Velvet]

What??? Since when?

Since the pools were designated into 3 different pools. It was an attempt to try to designate different areas for different interests. So far, for the most part, it has been working and people are happy, though not perfectly happy. Each person wants a pool to themselves, but can’t afford one at their house or something. So they try to take over the common pool and get others to join them. This only becomes a problem when the ones not in the group are not able to enjoy the water quietly to themselves. If the group turns into a bully, or anyone turns into a bully then they need to be reported.

[fdpaq0580]

"Some of the residents have been asked to coordinate their pool time around the classes."

From the District Gov information:
"Regularly scheduled water exercise groups are encouraged to use the Sports Pools for this purpose."

"...nothing can be done about this." Nothing can be done about what, being asked to coordinate pool time or answering "no, I won't?"

The adult pools cannot be reserved, particularly for a regularly scheduled group that should really meet at a sports pool. If a group is there exercising and there is no room for you then get their earlier next time. If you are in the adult pool and a group asks you to join or leave then politely say no and they can exercise around you.

There should be a courtesy phone at every pool. If an individual or group is being disruptive, call the responsible rec center and let them know.

But first, let's all try to get along.

Sorry, but getting along doesn't compute with some folks. Those that have that "my way or the highway" attitude.

[fdpaq0580]

You are mistaken.

Time to kick ass and take names!

[fdpaq0580]

Yes, and there is a big difference between being friendly and being a doormat.

100% agree!

[fdpaq0580]

The problem is any time someone goes to use the sports pool it's full of volleyball players. The village just killed my dream of swimming laps every morning cause I can't get up at the crack of dawn to do it

Sorry to hear this. There is no reason ,other than maintenance or repair, that half the swim lanes can't be cordoned off for swimming. You can play volleyball on land, if you want to play. The ONLY place you can really swim is in the sports pool. What's next? Water basket ball, water, pickle ball, water golf, water baseball, water mahjong, water karate classes,. I can keep going.
The sports pools are the ONLY place in TV that you can Really, really Actually SWIM! The powers that be should and would, I hope, take that into serious consideration and ensure that swim lanes be kept open for swimmers from dawn to dusk every day.

[Velvet]

I like the idea of “water Mah Jongg” I wonder if that would be classified as an “activity” hmmm?

[fdpaq0580]

There are schedules. I've NEVER gone to a sport pool full of volleyball players because I don't go to sports pools WHEN VOLLEYBALL IS SCHEDULED.

I feel like I'm taking crazy pills. LOL!

There are many open swim and lap swim opportunities. Rumor has it, most of us (not me - yet) are fully retired. Work with the schedules that exist and try to be flexible. You are retired, after all, right?

Schedules were something you had to deal with when you were working. When you retire, you should be able to do things on YOUR Schedule most of the time.

[fdpaq0580]

I like the idea of “water Mah Jongg” I wonder if that would be classified as an “activity” hmmm?

Somehow I didn't picture you as a water-Mahjongg type. I envision you more of a water-🥷(ninja).

[Red Rose]

Exactly!! Well said. I have never come across an organized water activity at the Adult Pool at Mallory nor the Family Pool at Coconut Cove in the 19 years I’ve lived here. However, Sports Pools at Regional Rec Centers have organized programs and they have to have permission and have to have a regular day and time schedule provided to them by the Regional Rec center as well. You can’t just organize your own group, decide on a time and show up at an Adult nor a Family pool and turn away other people coming for socialization. It’s just not the way the system works.

[Velvet]

Somehow I didn't picture you as a water-Mahjongg type. I envision you more of a water-🥷(ninja).

My Kawasaki 6R would get water logged.

[tophcfa]

Sorry to hear this. There is no reason ,other than maintenance or repair, that half the swim lanes can't be cordoned off for swimming. You can play volleyball on land, if you want to play. The ONLY place you can really swim is in the sports pool. What's next? Water basket ball, water, pickle ball, water golf, water baseball, water mahjong, water karate classes,. I can keep going.
The sports pools are the ONLY place in TV that you can Really, really Actually SWIM! The powers that be should and would, I hope, take that into serious consideration and ensure that swim lanes be kept open for swimmers from dawn to dusk every day.

Totally agree, good points and post!

[Pairadocs]

That statement is "mostly" true, but not always.

The pool at Cattail is a family pool located at a postal station.

And THAT is part of the confusion I'm sure. There are exceptions to most of what seems to be a "pattern" concerning amenities in our community. NEW concepts are tried from time to time, some are picked up for repetition, some are one of a kind. I am sure it is very confusing for new residents ! It's the same with golf, and other amenities. Country clubs aside, the differences in "required" dress at various nine hole courses is really confusing, same with the wide differences in "allowed" on course conduct. Reading the pool rules someone posted from the .gov website, if you look at EVERY WORD carefully, it does NOT convey absolute adherence. Just like all the other language associated with amenities, is it couched with a language the conveys a kind of civil decency, cooperation, respect, politeness, and a common understanding that taking up an entire neighborhood adult pool for a sport or organized class is NOT what was intended.... but....again, if you read carefully on many of these types of things, the language used by the villages in their printed materials is actually more like "civil behavior suggestions", than anything narrowly, and legally, defined. This is how it reads to me: PLEASE ACT LIKE RESPONSIBLE AND POLITE ADULTS WHEN USING OUR COMMON AREAS ! Just my interpretation !

[Pairadocs]

Exactly!! Well said. I have never come across an organized water activity at the Adult Pool at Mallory nor the Family Pool at Coconut Cove in the 19 years I’ve lived here. However, Sports Pools at Regional Rec Centers have organized programs and they have to have permission and have to have a regular day and time schedule provided to them by the Regional Rec center as well. You can’t just organize your own group, decide on a time and show up at an Adult nor a Family pool and turn away other people coming for socialization. It’s just not the way the system works.

TOTALLY AGREE with you, you just omitted one word: "supposed". That is the was the "system" is SUPPOSED to work, but human beings can be very very self-serving and self-focused... and age sometimes (and in some people) seems to even increase the lack of awareness of others.

[Pairadocs]

If you see this happen and have your phone, video it, zoom in on the leaders then pass it up the line. Maybe show it here on TOTV.

My natural instincts usually do not extend to that extent: pictures, videos, social media "shaming", but times have certainly changed as we all have experienced, and my opinion has also changed. It's very sad to accept, but that is the only thing that will cause "some people" to re-think their behavior, and, more and more even that seldom works. Pictures of people "taking over" pools, pictures people have taken of others from blocks away bringing their dogs to the property of another to "deposit", pictures of people biking 4 and more abreast on MMP's , do not necessarily change the behavior of some people. They simply have do shame. I think there is something much deeper going on, a total cultural change that has roots in acceptable civil/social behavior. My own observation was this began long before the "pandemic", but certainly accelerated at a mind boggling rate during that period. Definite cultural shift. Having said that, I do believe it is "worth" a change to post such behaviors !

[coffeebean]

Swimming in any pool other than sports pools is almost impossible. As others have said, the adult or family pools are pretty much for socializing. I tried swimming in adult pool when I first got here 2 years ago and while people didn't care, I had to dodge them as they were walking.

Adult pools do not have the lane markings on the bottom of the pool. When swimming laps, I use those lines to alert me when I'm coming to the end of the pool. I would never attempt to swim in the adult pools; I swim laps only in the sports pools.

[coffeebean]

Thank, it is. It's the Moultrie Creek Recreation Center ADULT pool. I actually chose my home in relation to it's location because swimming is one of the few things I can physically do after back surgery years ago. I can't enjoy most other sports here, but am satisfied to use the pool, walk, golf cart, shop eat and party!

Too bad you want to use a neighborhood pool to swim. Most people who want to just lounge around with a noodle in the adult neighborhood pools don't like it when people swim in those pools. Swimming is done in the sports pools. You have a swim lane to yourself or maybe share with on other person if the lanes are full. As I said in an earlier post, neighborhood pools do not have the lane markings on the bottom of the pool. Unless I do a dog paddle when my head is above water all the time, I could never swim in a neighborhood pool. And......I don't care to dog paddle. I prefer to do the freestyle stroke when swimming laps.

[coffeebean]

That’s a legitimate problem, lap swimmers are typically only allocated swimming time either at the crack of dawn, or dusk (especially after the clocks get moved back an hour). And even then, it’s often combo swim time where only half the pool has lanes and water walkers sometimes use the swim lanes.
Lap swimmers can ask any walkers to vacate the swim lanes. The swim lanes are swimming laps, NOT water walking. Thank you.

[coffeebean]

I didn’t say or mean to say you can’t swim in adult pools, perhaps I was not clear, only that you can’t make yourself into a nuisance. I swim in the adult pools regularly myself, just carefully so I don’t disturb the others in the water. If I want to practice speed swimming etc (having been on the swim team for many years) I do it when the pool is empty. And it is considered socializing as you walk and talk in the pools which we often do just like strolling with your family on the street. Light aerobics rarely bothers anyone, you are usually doing it in one spot. Swimming is hard to do without splashing and in one spot.

How do you practice speed swimming in an adult pool, even if the pool is totally empty? I would slam my head into the side of the pool without those markings on the bottom of the pool.

[AMB444]

YES...I have an interactive map that includes the THREE types of pools here:

Map of Places - The Villages 101 (http://www.thevillages101.com/map)

Excellent! Thank you!!

[Nana2Teddy]

If you see this happen and have your phone, video it, zoom in on the leaders then pass it up the line. Maybe show it here on TOTV.
I agree with this advice. This was happening in our adult pool when our village was newer last year, and had to be stopped because it’s absolutely not allowed. If you have a Moultrie Creek Facebook group up and running you can post about it in the group, and remind everyone what the adult pool rules are. No classes are allowed in the adult pools. Period.

[Nana2Teddy]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to relax and float around in a pool just to cool off on a hot summer day. It’s not being lazy. It’s how the majority of pool owners use their pools, and it’s what the adult pools were built for here in TV. Personally, because of a bad knee I can’t do much but very light movement in a pool, so I mainly just relax on a pool noodle. I’m not being lazy just as I’m sure the majority of “Adult pool” users aren’t either. You want to swim laps go to the Sports pools.

[fdpaq0580]

Exactly!! Well said. I have never come across an organized water activity at the Adult Pool at Mallory nor the Family Pool at Coconut Cove in the 19 years I’ve lived here. However, Sports Pools at Regional Rec Centers have organized programs and they have to have permission and have to have a regular day and time schedule provided to them by the Regional Rec center as well. You can’t just organize your own group, decide on a time and show up at an Adult nor a Family pool and turn away other people coming for socialization. It’s just not the way the system works.

Not the way it is supposed to work, but sometimes, unfortunately, it does.

[fdpaq0580]

My Kawasaki 6R would get water logged.

😲😱😳 My! What a big kawasaki you have!

[Nana2Teddy]

It is, thanks. It's the Moultrie Creek Rec center Adult pool. I chose my home based on its location.
Hopefully you bought a pool sized lot so you can build your own pool eventually because that’s the only way you’ll ever be able to truly use a pool here in TV the way you want to use it. We learned that lesson too late. We didn’t buy a pool sized lot thinking we wouldn’t need it with all of the pools here. Not only is our very close adult pool almost always crowded with a large, very loud and hard-drinking group, but the water is just too warm to enjoy in July/August/Sept. Hope you’re able to resolve your issue. I’d try very hard to nip it in the bud while your village is still new. Good luck!

[Rodneysblue]

Adult pools are not swimming pools. They are not meant to do sports in of any kind. They are meant for socializing. That means you walk in them or talk in them like in a large hot tub. Now when no one is using the pool, you can swim laps or use aquatic equipment. The idea is to defer to the people on the pool for the purpose it was made. The problems arise when people do not respect the purpose usage of these pools when there are others in it. Sort of like no one under 30 should be in the water. If you find people are disregarding these rules and it disturbs you, call community watch or the rec center and they will handle the situation.

Where does it say that Adult do not allow swimming? What are you supposed to do sink to the bottom and walk?

[fdpaq0580]

Sadly, they should be called lazy peoples pools. I looked once and have never actually gone inside the gates in my 3+ years here. I, like you, want to swim. I’ve yet to actually get to a sport pool and yes, it’s a bummer. TBH I don’t even know where you find the schedule for the sport pools.

Negative generalization about the retired, semi-retired and other adults who chose to relax here. The adult pools were built for relaxation and socialization. Not swimming. Sports pool is for swimming. 3+ years here? Having a hard time finding the energy to call the rec-center for info, or just....... No, I won't say it.
🙈🙉🙊

[fdpaq0580]

Where does it say that Adult do not allow swimming? What are you supposed to do sink to the bottom and walk?

Well, that would work. Max depth is 5 ft, and the pools aren't very large, so you could walk to the shallows. You could also bounce off the bottom and catch a breath every time you break the surface. Or grab the nearest person and ask them to save you. Maybe you need water wings? 🤔🫠😉

Or, unless you are shorter than 5' 6", you could just stand up.

[fdpaq0580]

Hopefully you bought a pool sized lot so you can build your own pool eventually because that’s the only way you’ll ever be able to truly use a pool here in TV the way you want to use it. We learned that lesson too late. We didn’t buy a pool sized lot thinking we wouldn’t need it with all of the pools here. Not only is our very close adult pool almost always crowded with a large, very loud and hard-drinking group, but the water is just too warm to enjoy in July/August/Sept. Hope you’re able to resolve your issue. I’d try very hard to nip it in the bud while your village is still new. Good luck!

Best check to see if drinking (alcohol) is allowed. If not, record it and report it. Loud, (drunk)and large, should not be in charge. No need to tolerate obnoxious jerks.

[Velvet]

Where does it say that Adult do not allow swimming? What are you supposed to do sink to the bottom and walk?

Did I say adult pools do not “allow” swimming? Please read my posts again, you have obviously missed some.

[Cupcake57]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

I'm sorry, Laura. Posters are intentionally misinterpreting your concern. Organized group classes are not allowed in pools other than sports pools and need to be scheduled through the rec department. Wading, floating, chatting, walking, dog paddling and doing a little swimming is allowed in neighborhood and family pools if you aren't in anyone's way. Its possible that a new neighborhood like Moultrie Creek hasn't figured this out, but you should definitely complain to the rec center. Hopefully their invitation to join in was genuine, but their class is in violation of the rules. If complaining doesn't work, organize a splash- in commencing just before their 'class' with a dozen of your friends and crowd them out.

[NavyVet]

Sorry to hear this. There is no reason ,other than maintenance or repair, that half the swim lanes can't be cordoned off for swimming. You can play volleyball on land, if you want to play. The ONLY place you can really swim is in the sports pool. What's next? Water basketball, water pickle ball, water golf, water baseball, water mahjong, water karate classes,. I can keep going.
The sports pools are the ONLY place in TV that you can Really, really Actually SWIM! The powers that be should and would, I hope, take that into serious consideration and ensure that swim lanes be kept open for swimmers from dawn to dusk every day.

Yes! someone who gets it.
TV "swimming pools" are a joke. It's been my biggest pet peeve for over 10 years, since swimming is the only outdoor activity I can do. I have lived here full time since 2003.
By 2014, I had to completely give up on TV amenities as TV had gotten so crowded you couldn't get into ANYTHING (without standing in long waiting lines which not all of us can do.) Town squares packed/wall to wall people, rec centers activities/classes all full, any good shows at the venues sold out unless you got the tickets in the first HOUR they went on sale.
I would check the weekly rec schedule every week for sport pool lap times, even driving to pools at the opposite end of TV. I needed the rope lanes to guide me and keep a straight line. It would usually take me the full 50 minute allotment to do my laps. Sometimes I couldn't even get a lane due to walkers! Or standing in the hot sun waiting for a lane to open up, then someone who arrived 10 minutes after you jumps in and takes the lane right out from under you.
Gradually, classes and volleyball completely took over. The only lap times were at dawn. I'm sorry; I am not getting up at zero dark thirty for anything.
I started trying different adult pools. Very cliquish, and I got weird looks for trying just a couple laps when it was not busy. I don't even do freestyle. I do a military swim stroke that is stealthy with zero splash.
So what if lap swimming doesn't fit as many people at once. They should either keep a couple lanes available at all the sport pools throughout the day or dedicate ONE pool that keeps all the ropes in and schedules zero volleyball or classes. Also, walkers should not be able to take up swim lanes. They can walk around at any of the other pools ... and socialize at the same time.
Sheesh, it's not rocket science.
I've just been frustrated that I certainly don't get my money's worth for "the lifestyle" and amenities that many of us don't actually get to use. The sheer number of residents just makes everything too difficult. The Lifestyle is really just an illusion for the newbies and a way to charge more for houses and those stupid ridiculous bonds.
We paid off 2 and then had to move again, so now stuck with a third bond. I feel I've contributed more than my fair share to the infrastructure or whatever. So many changes in the past 20+ years, some good, some not. They took away the indoor lap pool. Then, the buffalo, and so on.
Okay, rant over. Sorry.

[Topspinmo]

On rare occasion when I go to pool I do what I want. I float, swim little, bobb. I pay my amenities don’t let no bullies rule over me. I ran into this the first month I was here. Bullies thinking the own villages pools.

[TOMCAT]

During a lifestyle visit, I remember someone telling me about a water aerobics class in the adult pool in the morning, so I went. There were only about four women: the instructor and three students. There were no others in the pool yet. It was empty. It was early in the morning. I was told that the water aerobic classes get full so fast that they have their own. I only went once, and we did not bother anyone. It was fun, though.

This water aerobics activity happened years ago at Creekside Landing Pool in Lake Sumter when it was used for lifestyle preview visits. I do not know if it is still used for these visits.

[roshud]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

For all those responding about the rules, I am pretty sure she is talking about the Moultrie Creek pool. Until Eastport area gets built out more, the nearest sports pool is not remotely close. The group you are talking about is not an organized event. Don’t know how Rec Center can stop a group of ladies from getting together and doing water aerobics while socializing. Just go to the Saluki family pool to swim at that time, it’s bigger and better for swimming.

[golfing eagles]

For all those responding about the rules, I am pretty sure she is talking about the Moultrie Creeku pool. Until Eastport area gets built out more, the nearest sports pool is not remotely close. The group you are talking about is not an organized event. Don’t know how Rec Center can stop a group of ladies from getting together and doing water aerobics while socializing. Just go to the Saluki family pool to swim at that time, it’s bigger and better for swimming.

They stop them by enforcing the rules. If they don’t want to enforce rules, just open up every pool to the public to do whatever they want, including non residents. Can anyone spell “anarchy”?

[Angelhug52]

You are absolutely wrong about bringing people into the pool under 30. YOU don’t tell the grandparent, Community Watch sorry, I think it is Rec center employees, check IDs etc. Being a senior citizen simply doesn’t trump everything.

Clarity: should have read don't tell grandparents they cannot have the kids at the neighborhood adult pool. They should go to family pools.

[Velvet]

Clarity: should have read don't tell grandparents they cannot have the kids at the neighborhood adult pool. They should go to family pools.

Yes, that is what I meant, thank you.

[LeRoySmith]

It feels like high school all over again!

I hadn't thought of it like that but you are correct it's exactly like high school and I had a blast in highschool!

Unfortunately, that summation can be applied to many things in The Villages.

Hanging out, making new friends, playing sports and being active, not taking life too seriously (no need to be an adult yet), fun cars, dances, beer parties (in cornfields), swimming (in the creek).

I guess you guys had a different experience than I did.

[Velvet]

Yes! someone who gets it.
TV "swimming pools" are a joke. It's been my biggest pet peeve for over 10 years, since swimming is the only outdoor activity I can do. I have lived here full time since 2003.
By 2014, I had to completely give up on TV amenities as TV had gotten so crowded you couldn't get into ANYTHING (without standing in long waiting lines which not all of us can do.) Town squares packed/wall to wall people, rec centers activities/classes all full, any good shows at the venues sold out unless you got the tickets in the first HOUR they went on sale.
I would check the weekly rec schedule every week for sport pool lap times, even driving to pools at the opposite end of TV. I needed the rope lanes to guide me and keep a straight line. It would usually take me the full 50 minute allotment to do my laps. Sometimes I couldn't even get a lane due to walkers! Or standing in the hot sun waiting for a lane to open up, then someone who arrived 10 minutes after you jumps in and takes the lane right out from under you.
Gradually, classes and volleyball completely took over. The only lap times were at dawn. I'm sorry; I am not getting up at zero dark thirty for anything.
I started trying different adult pools. Very cliquish, and I got weird looks for trying just a couple laps when it was not busy. I don't even do freestyle. I do a military swim stroke that is stealthy with zero splash.
So what if lap swimming doesn't fit as many people at once. They should either keep a couple lanes available at all the sport pools throughout the day or dedicate ONE pool that keeps all the ropes in and schedules zero volleyball or classes. Also, walkers should not be able to take up swim lanes. They can walk around at any of the other pools ... and socialize at the same time.
Sheesh, it's not rocket science.
I've just been frustrated that I certainly don't get my money's worth for "the lifestyle" and amenities that many of us don't actually get to use. The sheer number of residents just makes everything too difficult. The Lifestyle is really just an illusion for the newbies and a way to charge more for houses and those stupid ridiculous bonds.
We paid off 2 and then had to move again, so now stuck with a third bond. I feel I've contributed more than my fair share to the infrastructure or whatever. So many changes in the past 20+ years, some good, some not. They took away the indoor lap pool. Then, the buffalo, and so on.
Okay, rant over. Sorry.

My experience too. I have participated in ONE Rec center event exactly that I wanted to go to, in 5 years, because anything I was interested in was already full. Or did not want to wait an hour in line etc etc. Perhaps they are trying to keep the cost of amenities down by increasing the number of people using them?

[golfing eagles]

My experience too. I have participated in ONE Rec center event exactly that I wanted to go to, in 5 years, because anything I was interested in was already full. Or did not want to wait an hour in line etc etc. Perhaps they are trying to keep the cost of amenities down by increasing the number of people using them?

Ah yes, once again the evil "they". The greedy "they". If "they" wanted to keep the cost down, they wouldn't offer the amenity in the first place.

[Velvet]

It’s a guess on my part, I thought it might make economic sense. Amenities are a big selling point. Up north, at my friend’s building, HOA fee is $3000 per month for a 2500sq ft 2 bedroom condo. It includes valet service. Anytime I visit my friend I see no one in the elevator, no one in the pool, actually no one anywhere other than service people. Every unit in this luxury (grade A) 22 story building is sold.

[fdpaq0580]

Ah yes, once again the evil "they". The greedy "they". If "they" wanted to keep the cost down, they wouldn't offer the amenity in the first place.

But then "THEY" couldn't upsell the LIFESTYLE, that we all bought. Greedy? They have a business model that makes tons of money, and business is all about the money. It ain't charity housing here.

[HORNET]

Some pools (adult ) have groups that meet there regularly, and do their own thing. One may not be able to do laps!

[tophcfa]

Some pools (adult ) have groups that meet there regularly, and do their own thing. One may not be able to do laps!

Swimming laps in any Villages pool other than one of the 11 regulation length sports pools (the Savannah pool does not qualify) with swim lanes and flags doesn’t cut it. You spend way more time turning than swimming, and without lanes and flags you can’t swim backstroke. Water walkers, on the other hand, can easily use both the adult and family pools (there are about 100 of them) and should not be taking up very limited and valuable swim lanes in the sports pools.

[fdpaq0580]

Swimming laps in any Villages pool other than one of the 11 regulation length sports pools (the Savannah pool does not qualify) with swim lanes and flags doesn’t cut it. You spend way more time turning than swimming, and without lanes and flags you can’t swim backstroke. Water walkers, on the other hand, can easily use both the adult and family pools (there are about 100 of them) and should not be taking up very limited and valuable swim lanes in the sports pools.

Agree!

[Bill14564]

Swimming laps in any Villages pool other than one of the 11 regulation length sports pools (the Savannah pool does not qualify) with swim lanes and flags doesn’t cut it. You spend way more time turning than swimming, and without lanes and flags you can’t swim backstroke. Water walkers, on the other hand, can easily use both the adult and family pools (there are about 100 of them) and should not be taking up very limited and valuable swim lanes in the sports pools.

Perhaps the very limited resource of the sports pools should not be spent on inefficient lap swimming at about 10 swimmers max. Perhaps the sports pools should be scheduled for water volleyball or water aerobics to service the maximum number of people (well over 50). Why should a sports pool be reserved for just ten people and leave 50 others sitting on the deck?

OR, perhaps the sports pools should be shared among all the groups wanting to use them. Give some time to lap swimming, make some room for walkers, have a couple hours throughout the day for water aerobics, and try to satisfy the never-ending demand of water volleyball.

I can't see the lap swimmers winning the battle to make the sports pools their own.

As for the adult pools - first come first served seems to make sense. If a group comes in and takes up all the space, so be it. However, if a group comes in and finds there are already people in the pool then the group can suck it up and schedule time in a sports pool. What the group CANNOT do is demand the adult pool for themselves.

[bsloan1960]

Based on your description the activity you described is a casual exercise class that would be out of compliance with the pool's intended use. Depending on the Villages attendant, these would either be ignored, or stopped depending on that attendant's personality, or if people complain, or if it is obvious these people are dominating the available room in the water. Contact the Recreation Department and ask them to come to the pool at the time this class is being held. We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

[fdpaq0580]

Based on your description the activity you described is a casual exercise class that would be out of compliance with the pool's intended use. Depending on the Villages attendant, these would either be ignored, or stopped depending on that attendant's personality, or if people complain, or if it is obvious these people are dominating the available room in the water. Contact the Recreation Department and ask them to come to the pool at the time this class is being held.

The adult pools do not have an attendant on site. If they did the problems of out of compliance activities and non-resident use , under age, etc. Would not be a problem. When issues arise, someone at the associated rec center has to put their job on hold, travel to the pool to try and take charge of a situation after all the miscreants UT on their innocent faces or becom mmomentarily absent. Once the rec center person leaves, all bets are off. Maybe security cameras?

[retiredguy123]

The adult pools do not have an attendant on site. If they did the problems of out of compliance activities and non-resident use , under age, etc. Would not be a problem. When issues arise, someone at the associated rec center has to put their job on hold, travel to the pool to try and take charge of a situation after all the miscreants UT on their innocent faces or becom mmomentarily absent. Once the rec center person leaves, all bets are off. Maybe security cameras?
Not correct. They don't put their job on hold. It is their job to monitor the pools and to enforce the rules. Each village rec center manager/employee is responsible for monitoring about 2 to 3 adult pools. They even have a Villages pickup truck for that purpose. They are required to visit every pool several times per day. That is their job. So, there is nothing wrong with asking them to do their job.

[jimjamuser]

No, they never asked us to leave, but asked us to join them. We were already there, swimming, talking and enjoying ourselves when people started to come in, telling us they were getting ready for a class, and we were "welcome" to join them. We didn't want to join them, we wanted to keep doing what we were doing, but then there were 24 in the pool, each with a noodle and a set of dumbbells, which left no room for anyone else to even move. Think, 24 people with their arms extended at their sides....leaves no room. We watched a bit, then left, realizing we either had to exercise with them, or leave. We were told the class occurs three days a week. Then the leader denies it's a class and when they are checked by The Villages pool checkers, they stop exercising and stand there pretending to swim and socialize so they don't get caught. It feels like high school all over again!
Video tape them and take it to the rec center manager.

[LKvillager]

Will do! Thank you so much for the info!!

You can find all of the information on all pools and rec center activities by picking up the weekly activity newspaper at any rec center. It clearly lists all of the info you are looking for.

[Number 10 GI]

My parents were here since Mr Shwartz started these pools. The original intent of adult pools was to socialize. Notice they are not “activity” pools. The idea was that children play and are loud etc and adults would like a quiet restful time to enjoy each other. A gathering place where you get to know each other, exchange stories, ideas, things to do etc. The ones who wanted activities had special pools built for them which are called activity pools. You can’t mix activities and relaxation in the same water so the adult pools were made smaller than the activity pools.

In my observation coming to visit relatives since 1992, the younger age group, say in their 60’s are mostly full of whim and vinegar, ready to boogey in the water. The older group 80’s and 90’s enjoy a dip and conversation, perhaps walking back and forth, in the water. Now as the younger group gets older, they become the more relaxed ones (after hip and knee surgeries, strokes etc). But by then new ones move in expecting any water to be the only thing they have ever known, a “swimming pool”.

A happy Village tries to accommodated as many residents’ hopes as best they can. One way is that the “active” ones go at times when the “relaxed” ones are not there.

What does it matter that your parents were here when Shwartz started up the pools? Were they personal friends with the old man and were privy to all his thought and dreams for The Villages?
I see so many posts where people claim that old man Shwartz is turning over in his grave because his successors eliminated this or want to change something. Baloney, the only people who know what he wanted are himself and his family.
Your contention that the adult pools were built just for socializing is only your opinion and not backed up by any proof. I asked for a link that backs up your contention but apparently it doesn't exist because you didn't provide it. Everyone pays amenity fees that provide for and maintain the pools and one group of entitled people don't get to set the rules just because they want things their way. Go to Burger King to get it "your way".
Are you going to tell the person who wants to walk in the pool for low joint impact exercise they can't do it because it disturbs the ones that want to socialize? Why can't the socializers move to the side and let someone swim a little bit? I really don't think many serious swimmers are going to find it convenient to swim in such a small place, but a person might want to swim a couple laps to limber up. No, can't allow that because it bothers the selfish entitled people who don't care about other people's desires.
Yes Sir, The Villages, friendliest town in the world.

[Bogie Shooter]

What does it matter that your parents were here when Shwartz started up the pools? Were they personal friends with the old man and were privy to all his thought and dreams for The Villages?
I see so many posts where people claim that old man Shwartz is turning over in his grave because his successors eliminated this or want to change something. Baloney, the only people who know what he wanted are himself and his family.
Your contention that the adult pools were built just for socializing is only your opinion and not backed up by any proof. I asked for a link that backs up your contention but apparently it doesn't exist because you didn't provide it. Everyone pays amenity fees that provide for and maintain the pools and one group of entitled people don't get to set the rules just because they want things their way. Go to Burger King to get it "your way".
Are you going to tell the person who wants to walk in the pool for low joint impact exercise they can't do it because it disturbs the ones that want to socialize? Why can't the socializers move to the side and let someone swim a little bit? I really don't think many serious swimmers are going to find it convenient to swim in such a small place, but a person might want to swim a couple laps to limber up. No, can't allow that because it bothers the selfish entitled people who don't care about other people's desires.
Yes Sir, The Villages, friendliest town in the world.

Agreed with everything you said to last sentence.
Don’t paint TV based on one uninformed poster………….

[Number 10 GI]

Agreed with everything you said to last sentence.
Don’t paint TV based on one uninformed poster………….

Maybe it was a bit of a broad brush painting but when you do much reading on this forum it tends to jaundice your view of the community. Yes, there are a lot of friendly people here.

[fdpaq0580]

What does it matter that your parents were here when Shwartz started up the pools? Were they personal friends with the old man and were privy to all his thought and dreams for The Villages?
I see so many posts where people claim that old man Shwartz is turning over in his grave because his successors eliminated this or want to change something. Baloney, the only people who know what he wanted are himself and his family.
Your contention that the adult pools were built just for socializing is only your opinion and not backed up by any proof. I asked for a link that backs up your contention but apparently it doesn't exist because you didn't provide it. Everyone pays amenity fees that provide for and maintain the pools and one group of entitled people don't get to set the rules just because they want things their way. Go to Burger King to get it "your way".
Are you going to tell the person who wants to walk in the pool for low joint impact exercise they can't do it because it disturbs the ones that want to socialize? Why can't the socializers move to the side and let someone swim a little bit? I really don't think many serious swimmers are going to find it convenient to swim in such a small place, but a person might want to swim a couple laps to limber up. No, can't allow that because it bothers the selfish entitled people who don't care about other people's desires.
Yes Sir, The Villages, friendliest town in the world.

"swim a couple laps". In an adult pool? " to limber up." To limber up for what? Floating and talking? HA!
And as far as Shwartz's vision for TV, maybe the family knows and maybe they don't give a spit. They have inherited the goose that lays golden eggs. Their main concern should be keeping that goose happy and healthy so it will continue to lay. And, when it is polished, a 14k egg looks as good as a 22k egg. 🙂

[fdpaq0580]

Yes Sir, The Villages, friendliest town in the world.

"In the world"? I must have missed something. Florida? Maybe, yeah. But, the WORLD? No, no, no! Not even close. 🙂*↔️

[Number 10 GI]

"swim a couple laps". In an adult pool? " to limber up." To limber up for what? Floating and talking? HA!
And as far as Shwartz's vision for TV, maybe the family knows and maybe they don't give a spit. They have inherited the goose that lays golden eggs. Their main concern should be keeping that goose happy and healthy so it will continue to lay. And, when it is polished, a 14k egg looks as good as a 22k egg. 🙂

Why is it so hard to believe someone would want to limber up a bit and the walk in the pool? We are told all the time to limber up before exercising.
From what I've read about Swartz and his dream for TV, it didn't get off the ground until his son stepped in and formulated the plan that created what we have now. His vision wasn't working. Based on the growth of TV, I think the family is keeping the goose very happy.

[coffeebean]

Where does it say that Adult do not allow swimming? What are you supposed to do sink to the bottom and walk?

Our neighborhood Adult pool at Mallory Square is used to relax in. People hang on to noodles and enjoy quiet time or converse with others in the pool. Sometimes, I've seen people walking in this adult pool too. Swimming.....not usually.

[fdpaq0580]

Why is it so hard to believe someone would want to limber up a bit and the walk in the pool? We are told all the time to limber up before exercising.
From what I've read about Swartz and his dream for TV, it didn't get off the ground until his son stepped in and formulated the plan that created what we have now. His vision wasn't working. Based on the growth of TV, I think the family is keeping the goose very happy.

Two strokes and you hit the other side, or someone who wasn't watching out for you. I'm not against lumbering up or exercise. But, as a general rule, the local adult pool is a poor choice of location for that.
And, as far as who gets credit for TV, I don't really care. I just want to continue enjoying my home here for as long as I can.

[VApeople]

We were originally told that ADULT pools are different from sport pools and family pools in that all sports and classes are held in sport pools, and family pools allow kids. My new village has an ADULT pool. After moving in, hubs and I decided to go for a swim, in the ADULT pool. Within 15 minutes, a group of women filled the pool with equipment for an exercise class and we couldn't swim anymore, and had to leave. We were told these classes are held three days a week, and it occurs at the time of the morning we both have free time to swim. So, did I receive WRONG information about the pools, or are people just refusing to follow the rules so others can't live THEIR dream?

Laura, you sure started an interesting topic that has inspired a lot of comments. So what have you learned?

It is my understanding that all residents over 30 years old can use your adult pool. We can bring our noodles or any other equipment that is allowed in the pool. If a group of us want to exercise in the pool, that is OK.

If our activities in your pool make it difficult for you, you can move to another pool.

[JMintzer]

My experience too. I have participated in ONE Rec center event exactly that I wanted to go to, in 5 years, because anything I was interested in was already full. Or did not want to wait an hour in line etc etc. Perhaps they are trying to keep the cost of amenities down by increasing the number of people using them?

Nonsense...

My wife goes to scheduled exercise classes and water aerobics 4-5 Xs/week. Rarely does she get there more than 10-15 minutes before their start time.

During the snowbird season, that might increase to 20-30 minutes, and she's met some really nice people while waiting for the classes to start...

[Papa_lecki]

I see so many posts where people claim that old man Shwartz is turning over in his grave because his successors eliminated this or want to change something.

He’s rolling over a 3 Billion times, one for each of his grandkids’ net worth.

[Topspinmo]

Ah yes, once again the evil "they". The greedy "they". If "they" wanted to keep the cost down, they wouldn't offer the amenity in the first place.

No one trying to keep cost of amenities down, that’s fake news. Since I been here nothing has gone down, it always goes up.

[fdpaq0580]

Not correct. They don't put their job on hold. It is their job to monitor the pools and to enforce the rules. Each village rec center manager/employee is responsible for monitoring about 2 to 3 adult pools. They even have a Villages pickup truck for that purpose. They are required to visit every pool several times per day. That is their job. So, there is nothing wrong with asking them to do their job.

Thank you for the accurate information on this. I must say though that I have never actually witnessed any rec center person checking IDs or monitoring activities at my local pool. Granted, I don't monitor the pool or rec center employees.

[fdpaq0580]

No one trying to keep cost of amenities down, that’s fake news. Since I been here nothing has gone down, it always goes up.

Like the "rate of inflation" it doesn't actually go down. It just doesn't go up as fast as it might have. You know, by cutting corners, sweeping the trash under the rug when they think no one will find out. That kind of "keeping the costs down ". 😉😉