Seattle Swimmer Laments Misused “Medium” Lap Lanes
A Seattle resident expresses frustration with the "medium" lap swim lanes at public pools, feeling that many swimmers who are not actually "medium" speed are slowing down the lanes and causing inconvenience for others. The author uses the pseudonym "Lap…

Seattle Tacoma, WA, August 12, 2026 —
A Seattle resident, writing under the pseudonym “Lap Dance,” has voiced frustration regarding the usage of “medium” lap swim lanes at public pools. In an “I, Anonymous” submission to The Stranger, the swimmer detailed concerns that individuals who do not adhere to a medium pace are occupying these lanes, thereby disrupting the intended flow for other users.
The core of the issue, according to the submission, lies in the perceived misclassification of swimmers within the designated lane speeds. The author argues that many individuals using the medium lanes are not swimming at a speed consistent with that category, leading to congestion and inconvenience. This situation reportedly impacts the experience of those who genuinely maintain a medium pace and expect to share the lane with swimmers of a similar speed.
The piece highlights a common challenge faced by public pool facilities aiming to cater to a diverse range of swimming abilities. Lane designations are typically categorized as slow, medium, and fast to optimize the swimming environment for all patrons. However, the effectiveness of these designations appears to be compromised when swimmers do not accurately self-select their appropriate lane.
The submission did not specify which Seattle public pools are most affected by this issue, nor did it provide details on any potential actions taken by pool management to address such concerns. The identity of “Lap Dance” was not revealed, as is characteristic of “I, Anonymous” submissions.
This sentiment points to a broader discussion about etiquette and adherence to guidelines in shared public spaces, particularly those involving physical activity where clear rules are essential for safety and efficiency.
Story summarized from the original created by Anonymous on www.thestranger.com, see more information here.