Swimmer Return to swim after COVID-19 Infection

All swimmers who test positive for COVID-19 should not exercise until they are cleared to return to school.

The graduated return-to-swim protocol can begin once an athlete has been cleared to return to school and is symptom free when performing normal activities of daily living.  This progression should be performed over the course of a 5-day period.  Consideration for extending the progression should be given to athletes who have experienced moderate COVID-19 symptoms.

If, at any time, during this graduated return-to-play protocol, the athlete develops any cardiac symptoms*, they will be referred to their PCP prior to engaging in any more exercise/swim activity.

*Cardiac symptoms  include chest pain, shortness of breath out of proportion for upper respiratory infection, new-onset palpitations or syncope (passing out).

Stage 1: Day and 1 Day 2 (2 Days minimum)
•    30 minutes or less
•    Light activity (slow laps with frequent resting)
•    Intensity no greater than 70% of maximum heart rate
•    NO resistance training

Stage 2: Day 3 (1 Day minimum)
•    45 minutes or less
•    Progress to more complex training
•    Intensity no greater than 80% maximum heart rate
•    May add light resistance training

Stage 3: Day 4 (1 Day minimum)
•    60 minutes or less
•    Normal training activity
•    Intensity no greater than 80% maximum heart rate

Stage 4: Day 5
•    Return to full activity/participation (contests/competition)