Summer is here, and that means one glorious thing: POOL TIME! Whether you’re perfecting your freestyle in our awesome indoor pool at The Swim Advantage in Orland Park or hitting up your local outdoor oasis, you’ve probably heard a few things about pools over the years. Some are helpful, some are hilarious, and some are just plain wrong.

Think of us as your friendly neighborhood pool myth-busters (though full disclosure: I never actually watched the show “MythBusters,” but I heard the hosts secretly couldn’t stand each other in real life… just a random tidbit for ya!). Today, we’re diving deep to separate the chlorine-infused fact from the murky fiction. Let’s make sure your pool knowledge is crystal clear!

Myth #1: “If you pee in the pool, it turns a special color.”

BUSTED! Okay, let’s just get this one out of the way. No, pools do not have a magical dye that exposes secret swimmers who relieve themselves in the water. However (and this is a BIG however!), that doesn’t make it okay! Urine introduces nitrogen compounds that react with chlorine to form chloramines. These are what cause that “chlorine smell” (it’s not actually the chlorine itself!) and can irritate your eyes and lungs. So, while there’s no tell-tale color, let’s all do our part to keep the water clean and head to the restroom.

Myth #2: “You have to wait a full hour after eating before swimming, or you’ll get terrible cramps and drown!”

PLAUSIBLE (But Mostly BUSTED): This one has been around for ages, often instilled by well-meaning (but perhaps misinformed) adults. The idea is that digestion diverts blood flow from your muscles, increasing the risk of cramps. While vigorous activity immediately after a huge meal could theoretically cause some mild discomfort, there’s little scientific evidence to support the “wait an hour or you’ll drown” part. Use common sense – avoid swimming intensely right after a massive feast – but don’t let this myth keep you sidelined unnecessarily, especially for light swimming or play.

Myth #3: “More chlorine means a cleaner pool.”

BUSTED! Actually, too much chlorine can be just as problematic as too little. Over-chlorination can lead to skin and eye irritation, a strong chemical odor, and even damage pool equipment. Pool maintenance is all about balance. Properly maintained pools have the right chemical levels to sanitize effectively without being harsh. That’s why regular testing and balanced chemical additions are key – something our awesome team at The Swim Advantage understands inside and out!

Myth #4: “If you can hold your breath for a long time out of the water, you can do the same in the water.”

BUSTED! Holding your breath out of the water and underwater are two very different things. Underwater breath-holding involves the mammalian dive reflex, which slows your heart rate and conserves oxygen. However, pushing your breath-holding limits underwater is incredibly dangerous and can lead to shallow water blackout. This is a serious risk and should never be practiced without expert supervision (which we address safely in advanced swim training, focusing on proper technique and safety protocols, never prolonged breath-holding contests).

Myth #5: “All public pools have the same level of cleanliness.”

BUSTED! Just like any business or facility, cleanliness standards can vary. Well-maintained pools follow strict regulations for water chemistry, filtration, and hygiene. Look for signs of good maintenance (clear water, clean decks, functioning equipment) and don’t hesitate to voice concerns if you see something amiss. We take pool hygiene incredibly seriously at The Swim Advantage, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Myth #6: “Babies are natural swimmers.”

PARTIALLY TRUE (But Requires Major Caveats): While babies have some innate reflexes that make them appear comfortable in water initially (like the diving reflex), these disappear as they grow. Babies are not naturally safe in water and require constant, active supervision. Infant swim programs focus on water acclimation and basic skills, but they are not a substitute for adult supervision.

Myth #7: “Sunscreen washes off instantly in the pool, so there’s no point in wearing it.”

BUSTED! While some sunscreen does wash off, especially after vigorous activity, it’s still crucial to apply a water-resistant sunscreen before heading to the pool. Reapply frequently, especially after swimming and towel drying. Sunburn is no fun and significantly increases your risk of skin cancer. Protect that precious skin!

The Truth? Knowledge is Your Best Poolside Accessory!

Knowing the facts helps you make smart choices for a safer and more enjoyable time in the water. Don’t let silly myths cloud your pool days! And remember, whether you’re working on your butterfly or just enjoying a leisurely float, The Swim Advantage in Orland Park is committed to providing a clean, safe, and fun environment to learn and love to swim.

Now go forth, armed with the truth, and enjoy those glorious pool days! Just remember to use the restroom, reapply your sunscreen, and maybe avoid any intense sprints right after that giant hot dog. Happy swimming!