Introduction
The world of synchronised swimming is a competitive one probably best summed up by comparison with the notorious ballet film Black Swan. Endless practice, extreme flexibility, litres of waterproof mascara and a large dose of frustrated desire all have their part to play. Except that last one maybe. And you must never, NEVER let your feet touch the bottom of the pool.
The basics
Synchronised swimming, or “synchro” for short, is basically aquatic dance. Athletes perform complicated routines in and under the water, choreographed to music. You need to be able to swim, obviously, and ideally have the slick manoeuverability of an Arctic seal. Some experience in gymnastics or dance would be helpful, as would natural rhythm. Athletes perform in solos, duets, trios or teams, so it can be quite a sociable affair. Although at the Olympics this is one of two women-only events (the other is rhythmic gymnastics), as a beginner or non-Olympic competitor, men can have a go too. In fact, synchro started as a male sport in the 1800s.
Health benefits
Surprisingly vast. As well as increased muscular tone, when tested and compared with other Olympic athletes synchronised swimmers ranked second only to long-distance runners in aerobic capacity.
Equipment, costs and practicalities
If you’re interested in competing, the standards are high. Athletes must train with speed swimmers in distance work, as well as working on technical skills such as the set body positions and transition movements that form the basis of synchronised swimming. For serious competitions, you must have passed the relevant skill level. Your coach will be able to tell you which level is needed for which competition.
If you would prefer not compete then you can concentrate on recreational grades. You can find out more about grades at swimming.org. Either way, to get access to coaches and teammates you need to join a club (there are more than you might think, all around the UK). Simply Google synchro clubs in your area. Annual membership costs around £40.
The only other things you need are a good pair of goggles (for practice only – they’re not allowed in competitions unless you have a chlorine allergy), a nose clip and a swimming costume.
Trendiness rating: 4/10
It’s not exactly a sport you’ll want to boast about at the watercooler.
Inside line
Faye Callaghan, swimming.org: “Anyone who loves swimming, dance or gymnastics will love synchronised swimming, as it is an exciting mixture of all three. During competitions swimmers perform a combined routine of elaborate moves in the water, accompanied by music. Because the teams spend so much time together working through routines it’s a great social activity that builds strong bonds between teammates.
“Synchronised swimmers must demonstrate advanced water skills, great strength, endurance, flexibility, grace, artistry and precise timing, as well as exceptional breath control when upside down underwater. Because of this, synchro is really hard work and so it’s great for anyone who wants to tone up or lose weight.
Synchro sessions are available for swimmers from as young as five but adults are welcome too. There is even a national master’s competition [for older swimmers].”
Find out more
swimming.org – lots of information about synchro and other aquatic sports.
aquavision.org.uk – synchro club covering north London.
portsmouthsynchro.co.uk – Portsmouth synchro club.
bristolcentralsc.co.uk – Bristol central swimming club.
synchro.org.uk – Birmingham synchro club.
You may also like
Water polo, gymnastics.
You might hate
Boxing, wrestling.
Over to you
Are you a synchronised swimmer? Help us build up this resource by sharing tips, videos, links to clubs and anything else that beginners might find useful.
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