Before diving into the world of synchronized swimming and lifeguard course, we advise you to learn more about it and investigate. The starting point is here. Go ahead and give that extra stroke!
Synchronized swimming is an extension of the sports discipline that takes place within different aquatic surfaces -swimming-. However, for many, it goes beyond a sport and they consider it as a mixture of art, harmony, beauty, and, of course, sports practice.
It is also usually recognized as artistic swimming or synchronized swimming due to the high degree of coordination that must exist in each of its practitioners. Are you serious and want to know more about this discipline? Next, we will show you everything you need to know.
History of synchronized swimming
The first records of synchronized swimming were presented in 1892. In England, artistic events called “water ballet ” were held. However, it was not until the next century that the birth of this discipline was confirmed.
At the beginning of the 20th century, development continued simultaneously in various countries of the world. Canada, the United States, Australia, Germany, Spain, and France were the main nations that influenced synchronized swimming.
However, at that time it was recognized as “ornamental swimming “, which focused on the male gender. Despite the marked predominance of men, the feminine modality was not long in coming to stay.
In the 1930s, the first mention of synchronized swimming appeared. Thus, the “Modern Mermaids” event held at the Chicago World’s Fair and organized by Katherine Curtis was presented.
Without a doubt, it was an event that marked the history of this discipline, especially in the United States. In that country, the actress and swimmer Esther Williams was in charge of promoting synchronized swimming, giving it great value and importance in the North American nation.
On the other hand, the FINA International Swimming Federation accepted synchronized swimming as a sport in 1952, twelve years after having drafted its first regulations.
During that time, this discipline took place in the Olympic Games of 1948 (London) and 1952 (Helsinki) as an exhibition sport. In 1984, in Los Angeles, synchronized swimming became an official Olympic sport.
Types of competitions
Within this discipline, three types of official competitions stand out: individual, duos, and team exhibitions. Each athlete should focus on the type that fits the most and dedicate themselves to improving on it.
Individuals
The athlete must create a routine that includes various basic positions; These must be carried out within the statutory water surface and must have a high content of creativity.
Duets
This type of competition is much more striking than the individual one since it requires greater coordination and harmony. It is allowed to carry the partner and artistic work is sought between both athletes.
Team exhibitions
The complexity of this type is much higher. In this case, there are eight athletes who must work in perfect harmony and coordination, despite not performing the same figures.
Most used figures or positions
This discipline is understood by various positions or basic figures, which are considered as a fundamental point of synchronized swimming. From these, the competition routines are developed and must be developed in the best possible way.
Stretched: it is done on the back and face down with the body fully stretched.
Ballet leg: this position can be performed on one leg or two; it is also carried out on the surface of the pool or within the depths.
Vertical: with respect to the stretched position, this is executed vertically. The rest of the figure has the body located fully extended.
Front and back tent: in both tent positions the body should be flexed at the hips. From the front, the angle is 90 degrees and from the back, the flexion increases to 45 degrees. The rest of the body should stay aligned.
There are many other shapes that can be used within synchronized swimming. In spite of this, those exposed above are among the most used in this discipline.
Synchronized swimming: more than a sport
People who dedicate themselves fully to practicing this discipline affirm that it goes far beyond a sport. If you stop to analyze it, they may be right because it focuses on coordination, the harmony of movements, and dance.
If you really want to know a different field that is linked to swimming, try to give this discipline a try. Get to know it and practice it regularly.