Our training sessions

At GSA, our training sessions are carefully and thoughtfully prepared. We follow an annual plan that outlines key competitions and goals. Based on this plan, we create a varied training program. Each session includes a warm-up, a technique and endurance block, and a cool-down. All aspects of swimming are covered, from technique to stamina.

The training program is accessible to everyone, regardless of your level or ambitions. Whether you swim recreationally, participate in competitions, triathlons, or open water swimming, we offer a challenging program tailored to your level. Our setup ensures that both beginners and experienced, fast swimmers can train at their own pace and level.

Every Wednesday in the 50-meter pool and every Friday in a separate lane, we provide dedicated space for swimmers focusing on long distances. Additionally, we also organize clinics during regular training sessions. These clinics give extra attention to specific swimming techniques, such as flip turns, diving from the starting block, or improving your stroke.

Training times

At GSA, you can train four times a week on the following days and times:

Monday: 21:00 – 22:00 (Marnixbad, 25 meters)

Wednesday: 21:15 – 22:15 (Sloterparkbad, 50 meters)

Friday: 20:15 – 21:15 (Sloterparkbad, 25 meters)

Sunday: 18:00 – 19:00 (Marnixbad, 25 meters)

Our coaches

GSA has a team of 12 enthusiastic trainers. Six of them are certified through the KNZB, while the other trainers are trained internally. At every training session, at least one trainer is present. Since all of our trainers are also members of the club, they enjoy swimming themselves too. They are happy to introduce themselves below!

Dia

Hi, I’m Dia (nickname: Fletz, Ata). I learned to swim in my late thirties and joined GSA in 1995 after seeing an ad. Being part of a community where I don’t have to be the ‘other’ and explain myself has been wonderful. Since 2012, I’ve been a trainer with two KNZB diplomas. My favorite part of coaching is helping swimmers improve with just a few tips.

Name:

Dia

Birthday:

02/06/1954

Pronouns:

Any pronouns

Dorien

Hi, I’m Dorien! I’ve been a member of this cozy club for about eight years and earned my Level 2 trainer certification last year. I became a trainer because I enjoy teaching swimmers and working with people. Outside the pool, I work at Tand150 dental practice (a GSA sponsor) and enjoy walking, drawing, and painting.

Name:

Dorien

Birthday:

19th of May

Fav Stroke:

Medley

Kees

My name is Kees, and I’ve been with GSA since 2000. I became a trainer in 2017 and have completed a KNZB course for head coaches. I enjoy creating training sessions that are challenging and varied, and I love helping swimmers improve their technique. Swimming becomes easier and more fun with good technique, and who wouldn’t want to master a perfect rollover turn?

Fav Stroke:

Butterfly

Birthday:

11/05/1975

Pronouns:

He/Him

Stacey

Hello, I’m Stacey! I’m proud to be part of GSA, where I started as a swimmer and later became a KNZB-certified trainer. I love the friendly atmosphere at the club and take pride in helping our swimmers achieve their goals. It’s exciting to be part of such a motivated and supportive community.

Name:

Stacey

Birthday:

00/00/0000

Pronouns:

She/her

Johnny

Hi, I’m Johnny, a member since 2013 and a KNZB-certified trainer since October 2023. I enjoy analyzing how people swim and offering constructive feedback. My goal as a trainer is to create a safe, energetic environment where I can share my technical knowledge and help swimmers improve their strokes while having fun.

Fav Stroke:

Freestyle

Birthday:

3rd of June

Pronouns:

He/Him

Emiel

Hi! I’m Emiel, a GSA member since 2020 and a trainer since 2021. I love working with swimmers to improve their technique and find it satisfying to see their progress. I was trained through GSA’s internal program, and while I’m not KNZB-certified, I’m passionate about helping our swimmers achieve their goals.

Name:

Emiel

Birthday:

00/00/0000

Pronouns:

He/his

Joost

Hello, I’m Joost, a member of GSA since 2014 (and also from 2000–2006). I became a trainer after completing GSA’s internal training program. I love helping swimmers improve their skills and enjoy the fun and connection we share during sessions. You’ll find me coaching about every three weeks. See you at the pool!

Fav Stroke:

Backstroke

Birthday:

8th of September

Pronouns:

He/Him

Johan

Hi, I’m Johan! I’ve been a GSA member since 2007 and became a trainer in 2012. My coaching philosophy is to focus on good technique first, as it’s the foundation for improvement. Swimming with GSA has also helped me grow as a swimmer, and I’m happy to share my passion for the sport with others.

Name:

Johan

Birthday:

00/00/0000

Pronouns:

Unknown

Dirk

I’ve been coaching at GSA since 2018. Swimming has been a big part of my life since I taught myself as a child, and I’m always in the pool or open water. I love helping others develop their swimming skills and enjoy sharing my experience with the amazing members of our club.

Name:

Dirk

Birthday:

25th of August

Fav Stroke:

Backstroke & Freestyle

Ruud

I have been a member of GSA since 1997. I started as a swimmer in the slowest lane and worked my way up to the fastest lane. Since 2013, I have been a trainer on the poolside. What I enjoy most about this is that just one small tip can already help a swimmer improve. I’m happy to help you with that.

Name:

Ruud

Fav Stroke:

Breaststroke

Pronouns:

He/Him

Walter

Hola, Hallo, Hello, I’m Walter! I joined GSA in 2022 after moving to Amsterdam. Previously, I swam with G Madrid and worked as a sub-coordinator. Inspired by the community here, I completed GSA’s internal training and became a coach. I love teaching the art of swimming and being part of this vibrant club.

Name:

Walter

Fav Stroke:

Breaststroke

Pronouns:

They/Them