Synchronized Swimming

Synchronized Swimming is a combined form of swimming, dance, and gymnastics in which swimmers perform figure routines with a combination of strokes and propulsions. This synchronization is accompanied by music. It was first begun in Canada during 1920s and within a decade, became much-publicized in U.S. It became an Olympic sport in 1984. At present, more than 80 nations participate in this sport. The participants perform free as well as technical routines the former following latter by using any stroke or propulsion method. In free routines, swimmers perform individually whereas, in technical routines, they follow some specific patterns to swim in specific routines at the same time. Figures are performed at fixed positions. Scores are given for figures, technical routines, and artistic impressions. Points can be decreased for any flaws in the performance or violating any rule. After adding all scores and subtracting penalty points, participants get their final scores. In major events, routine competitions are held in preliminaries and semifinals followed by figure competitions which swimmers have to qualify to reach finals.