With the Pan American Games just around the corner, it’s a good time to shine some light on an Olympic sport that is more than just ‘water ballet.’ Here are some finer points about synchronized swimming that will prepare you for watching this amazing sport:
- The sport features teams of up to eight athletes swimming in extremely close proximity. Duets and solo events are also part of the discipline.
- Teams are judged on technique (athletes must execute required movements and positions) and creativity. Underwater speakers allow the athletes to continuously hear the music — both under the water and above.
- Deck work! Before every routine, athletes perform choreographed movements before entering the water. Although not judged on deck work, it sets out the creative piece needed for competition.
- Nose clips and hair gel! An athlete needs plenty of nose clips since many movements are performed underwater. Clips are sometimes accidentally kicked off by another swimmer, and many athletes keep an extra pair tucked in their suit. To see clearly, the athletes must keep hair away from their face. Gelatin is used to smooth back the hair and is waterproof.
- No touching! Athletes must swim in deep water and continuously tread water above and below the surface. Even during tricks and lifts, the swimmers must never touch the bottom.
- The longest time a swimmer will hold her breath is just shy of one minute.
- Strength! Swimmers are exceptionally strong to incorporate movements and lifts out of the water. Athletes work to develop their core strength, allowing them to tread water with their shoulders out of the water. Since routines are two and a half minutes long, the strength required in an athlete’s legs and core must be exceptional.
- Practice makes perfect! Teams must practice together (there are no alternates or substitute swimmers). This is the ultimate team sport. Athletes practice up to 4 -5 times per week from 12-16 hours a week.
- Glitter and bling. Team suits are intricate and beautiful. Embellished suits are often made by hand, with sequins, beading and glitter. Swimmers complete the look with matching headpieces, which are most often pinned or sewn into the hair to ensure they don’t fall out. After all, most of what you see is above water so the headpieces need to shine!
- Watch for stars! The Canadian National Synchronized Team will be competing at the Pan Am Games during the first week of July. They’re stars in their own right, and we’re sending wishes for gold!
– Story and photos submitted by London Synchronized Swimming Club
