Munich swimming chief discloses peculiar incidents at Michael pool: "Swimming in civilians' attire"
Lifeguard at Munich's Michaelibad Shares Unique Challenges
Munich, Germany - In the heart of the city, Eric Henschel, a lifeguard at the Michaelibad, navigates a lively and often humorous work environment. After three years of training, Henschel, 27, has been on duty for two years, managing the flurry of visitors, occasionally troublesome bathers, and the occasional unusual animal intruders.
At the Michaelibad, visitors can enjoy one of Munich's largest leisure pools in Neuperlach, with up to 8,000 visitors at times. The pool complex caters to a diverse crowd, keeping Henschel and his colleagues on their toes daily. "People constantly surprise us," Henschel remarks, referring to the unusual and at times inappropriate behavior some visitors exhibit.
Among the curious bathers, some attempt to scale the barriers, viewing them as an obstacle course while others, unaware of pool etiquette, attempt to enter the water in street clothes or swimsuits. Henschel shares how some visitors asks for guidance once they realize their attire is inappropriate for the aquatic environment.
Life at the Michaelibad is not without its share of routine, with some guests characterized by stereotypical German vacation behaviors, such as early morning lounger reservations, and the ever-present controversy of "grandma's swimming spot." Henschel also highlights a unique challenge in keeping ducks, geese, and the occasional resident swan called "Melmen" from disturbing the pools.
To join the ranks of lifeguards at the Michaelibad, applicants must be physically and mentally fit, at least 18 years old, and have at least the Silver German Swimming Badge. A bit of eccentricity is also helpful, according to Henschel. He recalls a varied group of lifeguards ranging from former businesspeople to students, retirees, and even book authors, all sharing a need for the thrill and challenges that come with the job.
Although the job presents challenges, Henschel finds pleasure in the unpredictability of everyday work, acknowledging that "nothing is staged here." The Michaelibad remains a vibrant and engaging workplace, offering Seasonal or part-time work to lifeguards in the bustling city of Munich.
Note: For the latest job openings and requirements for lifeguards at Michaelibad, visit the Stadtwerke München or Michaelibad website.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, Eric Henschel, a lifeguard at Michaelibad, shares insights about the unique challenges he faces, including managing diverse visitors and keeping wildlife out of the pools.
- Beyond traditional lifeguarding duties, Henschel's job involves addressing unconventional behavior, such as visitors scaling barriers and attempting to swim in street clothes or suitcases, offering opportunities for science-based education on pool etiquette.
- Balancing the structured routine of the job with its unpredictable aspects, Henschel works alongside a diverse team in the home-and-garden-like setting of the pool complex, also dealing with unusual intruders like ducks, geese, and a resident swan, emphasizing the sportsmanship required to maintain order and safety.
