A winter escape: Keeping kids active in Reston’s indoor pool

By Moses Gregorio, General Manager, Goldfish Swim School Reston

Goldfish Swim School is one of Reston's indoor swim facilities. Photo by Moses Gregorio

Reston was designed around the idea that nature and community should be just outside our front doors. Whether it’s a morning jog around Lake Anne or a weekend stroll through the Town Center, neighbors here are known for staying active, no matter the season. But as the gray Virginia winter stretches into February, even the most energetic families can start feeling cabin fever.

While outdoor pools won’t open for months, some families find ways to keep moving indoors. Swimming in a heated pool is a favorite option for many. It helps children stay active when playgrounds are too cold and provides a sensory reset that can lift moods during the darker months. Keeping up with swim practice year-round also helps children maintain the skills they built over the summer—like any muscle, swimming abilities need consistent work.

Indoor swim facilities in Reston offer environments that make winter swimming easy for parents and kids alike, with warm changing areas and practical features like hair dryers to avoid the chill after lessons.

Beyond exercise, some of these facilities have become local hubs where teens and community groups gain experience and connect with others. Students from area high schools often work there, and programs occasionally open their doors to groups testing new ideas, from robotics teams to educational activities. These spaces reflect Reston’s long-standing focus on active living, learning, and community connection.

Even in the depths of winter, families can find ways to stay active and keep kids ready for summer swimming—all without leaving town.

For more information, visit goldfishswimschool.com/reston/