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THAT IS SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING! Synchronized swimming is a sport requiring overall body strength and agility, grace and beauty, split-second timing, musical interpretation, and dramatic flair. It is a unique sport in which power, strength, and technical skill are displayed in an artistically choreographed piece. The competitive rules and manner of judging of synchronized swimming are similar to its counterparts, figure skating and gymnastics. There are three events recognized internationally in synchronized swimming: solo, duet, and team (eight swimmers). Swimmers may also compete in the trio event in many U.S. competitions (including collegiate competition). In addition to these routine events, each competitor must participate in the compulsory figure competition. The scores earned in this event are added to those of the routine competition to determine each event's winners. To perform a strenuous routine while maintaining an effortless appearance is a very difficult and important quality that is expected by the judges. To understand the physical demands and endurance needed to perform the 2 1/2 to 4 minute routines, consider running while holding your breath for lengths of time up to 30 seconds. The routines demonstrate what has made "synchro" so popular with audiences. Much of the appeal is found in the use of the music to demonstrate the athlete's skills, technique and creativity. Routines are enhanced by the use of original and expressive movements, patterns, rhythms and audience contact. From: United States Synchronized Swimming website, 2000
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