BDS: Interview with Peter Harzheim - Current topics from the swimming pool industry

The Federal Association of German Swimming Masters is closely linked to the history of a profession that is now an integral part of public pools, leisure and adventure worlds. The association emerged from a loose community of committed practitioners long before there was even a clearly defined job description. Around five decades ago, swimming champions came together to exchange experiences, identify common challenges and give their own field of activity a voice. This association gradually developed into a structured representation of interests. With the formal birth of the profession in the early 1970s and the founding of the professional association shortly afterwards, this initiative was given a firm framework.

Representing the interests of swimming instructors in local authorities and facilities

From the very beginning, the focus was on one central concern: making the interests of swimming champions visible. They take responsibility for safety, technology, hygiene and the smooth operation of swimming pools in cities, municipalities and municipal facilities. The association sees itself as an ideal bracket that brings together colleagues from different regions. It creates spaces for exchange and is committed to ensuring that professional requirements, work realities and further developments in the profession are taken seriously. This collaborative approach still characterizes the association today.

Meetings, exchange and networking at the heart of the association's work

Personal meetings are an important part of the work. Meetings serve not only formal processes, but above all collegial dialog. Members' meetings are deliberately seen as meeting places where experiences are shared, problems are addressed openly and solutions are discussed together. This direct exchange strengthens professional understanding and promotes a network that extends beyond individual institutions. This networking is particularly important in a field of work that is often characterized by a high level of responsibility and quick decisions.

aquanale as a central meeting place for the industry

aquanale is a fixed meeting point for many swimming pool professionals. The association uses the trade fair specifically to bring together colleagues from all over Germany. It is not just about formal talks, but also about intensive discussions, gathering information and looking beyond one's own nose. Alongside the interbad trade fair in Stuttgart, aquanale is considered one of the most important platforms in the industry. For many swimming pool professionals, it now has an almost family-like character - a place where people meet regularly and think ahead together.

Variety of topics between technology, wellness and operational practice

The appeal of the trade fair lies in its wide range of topics. Everything that shapes everyday life in pools has its place there. Swimming pool managers can find out about current developments, pick up new ideas and learn about innovations that will later be used in practice. These include, among others:

• Sauna and wellness concepts for different pool types
• Technical solutions for water treatment and operational safety
• Cleaning and hygiene concepts for public facilities
• Attractions such as slides and leisure facilities
• Innovations for school, club and leisure pools

Passing on knowledge and creating added value for the public

The knowledge, ideas and impulses gathered at the trade fair do not remain there. The aim is to implement the knowledge gained in our own facilities and thus benefit the pools and ultimately the public. The Federal Association of German Swimming Pool Operators sees itself as a mediator: between practice and innovation, between individual colleagues and an entire industry. The history of the association shows how an idealistic community has become a supporting pillar of a recognized profession - and how important continuous exchange will remain in the future.