At a Swimming Lesson in Brazil: Ask About Levels and Equipment
Learn the questions you need before joining a swimming class, from which level to choose to whether you should bring goggles or a swim cap.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Aula de natação is swimming lesson. Ask whether the class is for beginners, intermediate swimmers, or a particular age group. If you are not sure about your level, describe what you can comfortably do and ask the instructor how they place students.
Choose the class that matches your experience
Class names and levels differ between schools. Confirm the schedule and the pool location with the facility.
Esta turma é para iniciantes?
Is this class for beginners?
Como vocês definem o nível dos alunos?
How do you determine students' levels?
Check what equipment to bring
Óculos de natação means swimming goggles and touca is a swim cap. Ask what the facility requires and whether any items are available to borrow or buy there. Do not assume every pool has the same equipment rules.
If you need a particular arrangement to participate comfortably, ask the instructor or facility which person can answer before class.
Preciso levar óculos e touca?
Do I need to bring goggles and a swim cap?
A escola fornece algum material?
Does the school provide any equipment?
Follow the class and ask for a demonstration
During a lesson, ask the instructor to repeat or demonstrate a movement if you did not understand the instruction. You can say entendi a primeira parte, mas não o movimento (I understood the first part, but not the movement) to be specific.
The vocabulary in this guide helps you ask questions; follow the facility's safety directions and the instructor's guidance in the water.
Você pode demonstrar o movimento mais uma vez?
Could you demonstrate the movement one more time?
Em qual raia a turma vai ficar?
Which lane will the class use?
Put it into practice
Confirm the level, required equipment, and class location with the instructor or facility before you arrive.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “How do you determine students' levels”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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