NOTE: This review is based on an adult taking lessons…read more TL;DR: After struggling to learn how to swim for years, I finally took private lessons at Waterworks in Alhambra with Jesse--and it was the best decision I could have made. The sign-up process was smooth, the instruction was patient and professional, and the progress was real. I went from barely floating to confidently swimming all four strokes. Highly recommend for any adult who wants to finally make a splash and conquer their fear of the water. -- For years, I tried to learn how to swim (four different times plus a friend's attempt to teach me) but nothing stuck. I never had the chance to learn when I was young, and I knew it was an important life skill to have (just in case). After another group lesson didn't work out, I decided to take the plunge and invest in private lessons. They're more expensive, but after multiple failed group attempts, I realized they were worth it. After researching several schools, I chose Waterworks in Alhambra. Reading through instructor bios, I felt Jesse would be the best fit for me. And wow, that choice made a splash! Signing up was quick and straightforward. I started with a group package just to test the waters, and I appreciated the option to add more classes later. Scheduling a recurring time slot with Jesse was simple, and even when my first package was about to expire, the customer service team helped me renew seamlessly without losing my spot. Attending class was smooth sailing too. Since I already had an LA Fitness membership, I could skip front-desk check-in and head straight to the pool. After 18 months of working with Jesse, I can confidently say every penny and minute was worth it. From my first lesson, when I only knew how to front float and was still uneasy in the water, to now being able to swim all four strokes at an intermediate level, float comfortably on my back, and even attempt flip turns, the progress has been incredible. Jesse's patience and clear guidance made all the difference. He always took time to explain techniques, offer visuals, and ensure I truly understood each movement. Writing this during my final week of lessons feels bittersweet--I'm sad to stop, but thrilled to know I can now keep making waves on my own. Here are a few takeaways from my private lesson experience: - Set realistic expectations. You won't learn everything in one class. Swimming takes time and consistency, especially if you're just getting comfortable in the water. - Practice makes progress. On non-lesson days, I made it a point to practice. Jesse often checked in to see how I was doing and encouraged me to keep up the routine. He even mentioned that my progress stood out because of my consistency. - Arrive early. Lessons are only 20 minutes, so warming up and stretching beforehand helps maximize that time and prevent injuries. - Follow LA Fitness rules. Take a quick shower before entering the pool. Pop-up changing rooms are available if needed. - Dress comfortably. I wore a rash guard and swim cap for modesty and convenience, especially since many other swimmers were kids. Thank you, Waterworks, and thank you, Jesse, for helping me dive into swimming with confidence. This experience has given me a lifelong skill, and I'm proud to say I finally made some serious waves!

My son started swimming 2 months ago with no experience and being 3 years old. His instructor Dulce…read morehas been such a kind detailed and sweet makes the class fun even a 3 year old can follow rules, so much progress and so little time due to the fact that the teachers really dedicate themselves to teach them

This is a follow-up review because the discrimination I experienced at this YMCA did not stop--it…read moreescalated. As a disabled member, I was repeatedly treated unfairly and made to feel targeted, particularly in the pool area. Despite clearly communicating my disability and the accommodations I require, I was spoken to in a condescending and dismissive manner. Instead of support, I encountered hostility and a complete lack of understanding of disability rights from staff. Two individuals directly involved in these ongoing issues were Carlos, a pool lifeguard, and Kimberly Morales, the Aquatic Director. Their conduct made me feel singled out rather than respected. Rather than addressing concerns appropriately, situations were repeatedly escalated, and my concerns were brushed aside. This was not an isolated incident--it happened over and over again. After raising these concerns, ultimately I will be canceling my membership because I no longer felt safe or welcome. Instead of acknowledging or addressing the discrimination, the YMCA chose to block me on social media, which appears to be an attempt to silence criticism and hide their behavior rather than take responsibility. It is deeply disappointing that an organization that publicly promotes inclusion and community would respond to a disabled member in this way. No one should have to fight to be treated with basic dignity, especially in a space meant to be accessible and safe. Based on my experience, I strongly caution disabled individuals and allies to think carefully before joining this YMCA.

I love this gym! It is a great community. Feels very homey, staff is always welcoming.read more

Grace is awesome!! She gave my 7 & 5 yr old private lessons summer of 2016. Prior to Grace, our…read moredaughters had years of lesson at Waterworks Irvine. We must have spent $1000+ but it did not work. 5yr old spent her lessons screaming and crying. It got very stressful and traumatic for ME! We also kept switching teachers at Waterworks...some were just not as good with kids. I've come to conclusion that places like Waterworks has a business model to keep you paying for lessons not necessarily getting your kids watersafe. Then we heard about Grace on the Irvine Mom Facebook board. I told her @ my 5 yr old. Immediately she CUSTOMIZED her teaching method and brought in toys. She is always smiling and calm with my daughters. And this is key with my 5 yr old who hated the pool. Grace also ask parents what the focus should be- swim safe or technique. Net net in just 2 months of private lessons- both girls love and ask to go to the pool. My 7 yr old can swim around by herself and my 5 yr old is no longer afraid. Plus Grace is super responsive with text & email, flexible with schedule changes. Other places are not. Only downside is I wish Grace had more Irvine hours. She splits her time her and San Gabriel Valley. I will definitely resume lessons with her the coming Spring.

Fantastic swim teacher. She's patient and gives good feedback. A few lessons go a long way. I saw…read moreimprovement after just 1 lesson! Highly recommend. Book early - she gets booked up fast!

We feel so lucky to have found Samantha G! She has been teaching my 2 year old and 4 year old, and…read morehas been incredible since day 1. Before Sam, we tried other swim instructors, but my kids didn't connect and we had trouble getting them in the water. Sam changed things for my kids - she has a gift and made them feel at ease in the water from day 1 - singing songs, bringing toys in the water, and making it fun while teaching them how to swim. We've seen so much progress with both kids in just 10 lessons. She's also always on time and has been super flexible every time we've asked to adjust the schedule. She's patient, engaging, dependable, and so good with toddlers. Can't recommend her highly enough! After our 2nd lesson, my 4 year old said "I think Sam is my best friend!"

This place hires completely inexperienced instructors. If you can swim, they'll hand you a job,…read morethat's literally what it feels like. There's no real teaching method, no structure, and definitely no qualified guidance for kids who actually need proper instruction. For the price they charge, you expect professionals who know how to teach, not random swimmers pretending to be coaches. Save your money and take your kids somewhere that actually trains their staff and knows what they're doing.

worse scheduling and terrible communication. would not recommend for swim lessons. Took 4 months to…read morefulfill 10 swim lessons. My child still doesn't know how to swim. waste of money for $70 per class for group sessions.

Amy (the director) is super helpful and she went out of her way to find a time that was working for…read moreus. We had one lesson with Shawn and immediately decided to sign up for 16 more... Shawn is such a great coach. He's engaging, calm and poised. He seamlessly redirect kids to stay on task and find fun and goal-driven activities. He really pushes the limits of what kids can do, while being reassuring and supportive. Just awesome coach and director!

First time visit: I called beforehand to ask if the pool was opened and the front desk woman was…read morevery rude. I wanted to confirm I was calling the pool phone number and not the park and she proceeded to answer me with attitude. I understand everyone has their days but I don't believe that's the attitude to carry when working in a children or family environment. Other than the rude lavender headed receptionist, all other life guards and staff were helpful and friendly. The pool itself was big and spacious for everyone to enjoy.

The two guys in the front are very rude, horrible service. Supposedly they've been closed for a…read morewhile. Don't waste your time don't come here.

We've been very pleased with this swim school. Our 5 year old daughter has been going here once a…read moreweek for almost a year now and we've seen the progression in her skills. Mr. Shin is very communicative and understanding if we need to make up classes. The coaches here are great, super patient and kind. I have not seen turnover with the coaches which says a lot about the school itself. Good ratio 1:3, lots of water exposure, no pressure to test skills, and very reasonably priced.

My friend who grew up in MPK remembers it from her own childhood! The facility shows its age, but…read morethe school has made an effort to keep it clean and updated. The owner is very down-to-earth and takes time to talk with new families. When we first signed up, he gave us thoughtful advice to help our kids. He always reminded new students to do simple exercises at-home, so they could get more comfortable into the water. All my kids started learning to swim here at age 5, and I've felt confident in the teaching staff. The coach-to-student ratio is appropriate for each level. Beginners typically have a 1:2 ratio, which gives them plenty of attention. Coaches are kind, patient, and experienced. While the coach may rotate, it's always someone from the regular team, so it still feels familiar and consistent. What I really appreciate is how the owner works with families to make the schedule fit when something comes up. The only downside is the parking. It's all street parking, including some behind the building. Depending on the time and season, it can be tough to find a close spot, but there's space available on the nearby streets if you don't mind a short walk. Overall, it's a great little swim school that truly cares about the kids and the families. We're happy we found it!

Clean & organized. Private lessons are available as well as free swimming time with a very low…read moreentry fee.

The staff is really kind, the pool is always a perfect temperature, and I can always get a lane!…read moreThey're also very affordable. I only wish they were open Monday mornings but I understand staffing can be tough! My go-to pool for laps in LA.

Great place for kids - many different classes for kids (dance, martial arts, STEM, etc). It's also…read morenice when adult exercise classes coincide with kids classes. Wonderful staff. This place has made such a wonderful impact on my six year old daughter.

First time coming here to use the pool, which is part of my physical therapy for the arthritis in…read moremy knee. My PT therapist advised me that swimming can help ease the pain in my arthritis, knees and back so I come to swim and it also helps me relax from any stress I might have because I do enjoy the water. My husband says that I'm part fish because I'm always in the water whenever I can be. I do recommend any YMCA because the service they have is extremely beneficial to the community.

I had a great swim experience. Tiffany was great, she was very patient and was able to adjust her…read morelessons. If something was not working she would teach me a different way to where I would be able to learn. Within a couple lessons, I was able to learn to swim. I definitely recommend it. She would also work around my schedule, she was very accommodating.

The best swim lesson one could want or need. Tiffani is the swim whisperer. Try her out. You won't…read morebe disappointed.