about dream swim nyc

A young woman with wavy, shoulder-length hair, wearing a nose ring, a white top, and a black fuzzy jacket, standing in front of a brick wall.

Renee Johnson

Founder & Lead Instructor

I’ve spent over a decade working in aquatics and fitness, and one thing has always stayed the same: swimming is both a life-saving skill and a lifelong sport.

My relationship with the water began early and grew through years of hands-on experience — from lifeguarding and public swim programs to teaching in schools, gyms, and private residential settings across New York City. Remembering what it feels like to be a beginner has shaped the way I teach. I understand the vulnerability, the fear, the learning curve — and the confidence that comes when it finally clicks.

Over the years, I’ve worked across a wide range of environments, including:

  • Public swim schools and community programs

  • Private and independent swim instruction

  • Luxury fitness and training environments, including Equinox

  • Educational institutions, including The Brearley School

  • Concierge and residential services within private NYC buildings

These experiences taught me how differently people learn — and how important it is to meet each swimmer exactly where they are.

As my career evolved, I naturally transitioned toward private instruction. Not because public programs lack value, but because one-on-one teaching allows for deeper focus, safer progression, and more meaningful results. Today, Dream Swim NYC operates exclusively in private and residential pools, offering personalized instruction in calm, controlled environments.

My teaching philosophy balances water safety, technical skill, and athletic development. Whether I’m working with a child learning foundational skills, an adult returning to the water, or an experienced swimmer refining endurance and efficiency, my approach remains the same: clear instruction, patience, and intention.

With a background in both teaching and fitness training, I place equal value on confidence, form, strength, and long-term physical health. Swimming isn’t just something you learn — it’s something you grow with.

Every lesson is designed with care, attention, and respect for the individual in front of me. That’s the foundation of Dream Swim NYC.

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