Artistic swimming, also known as synchronised swimming, is a sport that combines elements of swimming, gymnastics, and dance. It is performed by teams of swimmers who perform choreographed routines set to music in a swimming pool. Here are some of the basic rules of artistic swimming:
- Pool Size: The pool size for international competitions must be at least 25 meters long, and at least 2 meters deep.
- Team Size: Teams consist of between 8 and 10 swimmers, with one additional swimmer as an alternate.
- Routines: Teams perform choreographed routines set to music, and must include a combination of figures and lifts. Figures are composed of a series of acrobatic and gymnastic movements, while lifts involve one or more swimmers supporting one or more other swimmers in the air.
- Music: The music used in routines must be pre-recorded, and it should be appropriate for the routine. It is forbidden to use lyrics.
- Costumes: Swimmers are required to wear one-piece swimsuits, and should not cover their legs, arms or heads. They are also required to wear a swim cap, and no jewelry is allowed.
- Scoring: Routines are scored by a panel of judges based on technical merit and artistic impression. Each routine is judged on elements such as difficulty, execution, and synchronization.
- Time Limit: Each routine has a time limit of 2 minutes and 30 seconds, with a 30-second grace period.
- Safety: The safety of the swimmers is of the utmost importance, and teams are required to have safety spotters in the pool at all times.
- Penalties: Penalties may be imposed for infractions such as going over the time limit or not following the rules of the routine.
- Judging: The judging panel consists of a panel of judges who evaluate the routine based on technical merit, artistic impression, and difficulty. The scores of the judges are combined to determine the final score of the routine.
Artistic swimming is a sport that requires a high level of skill, athleticism, and artistry. It is a sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages, and is a great way to develop strength, flexibility, and coordination.