Just Swimmingly

Jahi Joiner
Head of Aquatics | Chelsea
Coaching for 11 years, 10 at Chelsea Piers

What got you interested in swimming and when did you start?

I started swimming when I was five years old. But it wasn’t until age 15, when I became a lifeguard, that I took it seriously.

What are some of the benefits of swimming?

Swimming is a full-body workout that has a low impact on the joints, making it ideal for individuals who are rehabbing or simply looking to exercise with less wear and tear on the body. It can be done by people of all ages and levels of athleticism. Furthermore, once you know how to swim, you can do it for the rest of your life!

What does a typical private swim lesson look like?

Private swim lessons are a great way to get custom training at a pace that isn’t overwhelming. The first session usually starts with an analysis of your current skill. From there we develop a program that is personalized to your goals.

We all know the post-pool munchies are too real… what’s your favorite post-swim snack?

A kale, parsley, spinach, avocado, spirulina, pineapple and coconut smoothie. It’s way better than it sounds!

Michael Sabala
Head of Aquatics | Brooklyn
Coaching for 22 years, 5 at Chelsea Piers

What got you interested in swimming and when did you start?

I grew up living across the street from the Great South Bay on Long Island. We had a pool across the street that my family would go to and my dad had a boat for fishing. So, it was always the expectation that my siblings and I would be safe around the water.

What is some advice you’d give to someone who is new to swimming?

Learning how to swim is on par with learning to ski or how to walk as a child. It’s a completely new way of moving your body. With the right instruction and supervision, it’s achievable and very safe. It’s the last form of exercise you will probably ever be able to do.

What does a typical Masters Swim session look like?

Masters Swim practices range from one to two hours. We have swimmers who have been swimming and competing for years, and we have swimmers who are new to the sport. It’s a very welcoming, inclusive space, and we are respectful of everyone’s goals within the program.

What is your favorite stroke and why?

I love coaching butterfly, because it’s hard and so athletic. I have had the highest level of success coaching breaststroke, as one of the swimmers I coached won gold and bronze medals at the Olympics in breaststroke. Freestyle is the fastest stroke, and swimming fast is the most fun.