While Ocala has always been known for its Florida sun and horse country, it’s quickly becoming known for swimming, too! If you’re ready to experience Florida swimming, the aquatic center of Ocala is a particularly excellent venue you need to check out. It’s one of the premier aquatic centers in the country and is the host to a growing number of regional and national competitions.
In this blog, you’ll get everything you need to know about planning your trip to the Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center (FAST), so your next vacation is a homerun.
What is FAST?
The Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center opened in southwest Ocala, FL in 2022. It’s the premier Florida swimming, training, and competition venue, boasting indoor 10-lane 50m and outdoor 50m/25m outdoor competition pools. The facility also offers a 2,475 square foot dryland fitness center, recreational swimming, a splash pad, rentable space for parties and meetings, seating for 2,000 spectators at events, a concession stand, and store.
Reasons to Visit
Attend an event
The Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center is the destination of choice for enthusiasts of state, regional, and national swimming competitions. Spectators at the venue enjoy plentiful seating, on-premises concessions, and world-class accommodations throughout the event.
Review the competition schedule any time and purchase tickets online.
Athletic training
Florida swimming enthusiasts understand immediately the draw of the FAST training center with its unique athlete-first environment perfect for those seeking a competitive edge. FAST services and venue design empower trainees to focus on the technical aspects of racing, strength, and power development. The FAST philosophy emphasizes proper technique and improved capacity.
Options for training include lane rental, FAST dryland fitness training room access, in-person and video-analysis expertise from Olympic coaches and athletes, group sessions, and more.
For pricing, availability, and booking information, visit: https://floridafast.com/train-fast/.
Swim lessons
Looking to increase your proficiency in the water or teach your kiddos how to swim? This aquatic center in Ocala has you covered.
Options for lessons include:
Cannonball Kidz for 3rd graders includes progression through four clearly defined stages of swimming development.
The Fast Falcons Swim School provides all the training you’ll need to join the FAST Falcons competitive team.
Parent-Tot lessons are perfect for children under two years old. Group classes are taught with a parent in the water.
Beginner-level adult lessons focus on the skills needed to stay safe in the water.
Intermediate adult lessons teach students strokes that let them get active in the pool.
No matter which lesson you’re interested in, the first step is registering online.
Family fun in the sun
Looking to build fun family memories of Florida swimming? The Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center has you covered with plenty of opportunities for recreational swimming, onsite concessions and shopping, and topnotch spray park facilities outside. Just be sure to consult the current pool schedule to determine the best time for your visit.
Parties, meetings, and corporate events
Celebrating a child’s birthday or looking for a unique venue for a corporate event?
The FAST center in Ocala offers a variety of party packages that include pool time, assisted set up and cleaning, invitation service, and everything you need for group dining.
For a more formal, grown up affair, book one of four multipurpose rooms that come complete with tables, chairs, projectors, and whiteboards. Each can accommodate up to 80 people.
Whatever your rental needs may be, call 352-820-4222 to book.
Things to Know About FAST
The Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center has something for everyone, whether you’re an aspiring swimmer or competitive athlete.
Here are more details you can use to plan your visit:
Location
FAST is located within the planned family community, Calesa Township, in Southwest Ocala.
The address is: 4635 SW 67th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474.
The aquatic center is approximately 70 miles north of Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Rates
Daily rates at FAST start at just $5 for kids 13 and under, $7 for students 14-17 years old, and $10 for adults. Discounts are given for seniors, couples, and families of 4 or more.
Those paying daily rates get access to open swim, lap swim, the spray park, and locker rooms.
Monthly and annual memberships are also available starting at $40 and $408 respectively for students and $60 and $612 for adults. Just like with daily rates, discounts are provided for those who qualify.
Memberships include access to FAST FIT, open swim, lap swim, the spray park, locker rooms, and a10% discount at the pro shop and concession stand.
Always visit https://floridafast.com/rates-membership/#rates for current information on prices.
Guidelines + Rules
A complete list of guidelines and policies is available on the FAST website at: https://floridafast.com/guidelines/.
Some policies of note to help plan your visit include:
Visitors must check in at the front desk upon arrival
Bare feet are not prohibited outside of locker rooms (please bring footwear of your choice)
No child over the age of five may be brought in the locker room of the opposite sex (there are 13 unisex restrooms/changing rooms for your convenience)
Professional photography is not allowed unless specifically authorized
No outside personal trainers are allowed
Lockers are for day use only unless a monthly or annual locker rental has been purchased
Smoking is prohibited (including smokeless tobacco products)
Outside food and drinks are not allowed in the facility
Drugs, beer, and alcohol are also prohibited
Possession of weapons and firearms are strictly forbidden
Pets are not permitted inside of the facility unless they are marked by vest as a service or support animal
Service animals are not allowed in the water
All sales for any purchases from FAST or the Pro Shop are final, there are no refunds and no exchanges
Severe weather conditions can result in sudden pool closures
In the event of weather-related facility closures, no refunds will be given
Accessibility
The Florida Aquatics Swimming Training Center is committed to ensuring the facility is accessible for visitors, including those with disabilities.
ADA compliant facility features include:
Accessible parking
ADA accessible signage throughout the facility
Elevator access to second floor seating
Reserved accessible seating
ADA compliant chair lifts in both pools
FAST contact information
Physical address: 4635 SW 67th Avenue Road Ocala, FL 34474
Mailing: 4635 SW 67th Avenue Road Ocala, FL 34474
Website: https://floridafast.com/
Phone: 352-820-4222
We hope this information has been helpful in planning your visit to our aquatic center here in Ocala. If you have any questions about planning your visit, or want an insider scoop on Ocala Florida, swing by Acadia Acres to learn more.