I'm Kevin Andreosky. I've finished three Ironman races and a few ultramarathons, but I got into triathlon to support a friend at their first race. SoftStart Tri is the site I wish they'd had.
A pool swim is the single biggest fear-remover for a first triathlon. You can see the bottom, you can stand up or grab the wall, and there is no current. The friend I first raced with would not have started without one.
Most pool triathlons use a serpentine format: you swim down one lane, duck under the lane line, and swim back in the next. Athletes usually start one at a time, seeded by the swim time you enter at registration, so be honest about your time. Formats vary, so read the athlete guide.
Many Florida pool races on SoftStart are youth races. If you are an adult and want zero swimming instead, a duathlon is your best option:
Data comes from public race calendars and race websites. If we missed a pool race, tell us.
Usually no, and you do not need one. Check the race rules.
Time yourself swimming the race distance in a pool and enter that time. Races use it to seed the start order.
Yes, you can rest at the wall. Just do not hold up swimmers behind you.