Synchronized Swimming

Synchronized swimming is a pretty water sport that mixes swimming and dancing. Swimmers move together in time with music. They make shapes with their arms and legs. Some moves are done above the water, and some are done under it. It looks like a dance in the pool.

How It Is Done

Swimmers practice for many hours each day. They must be strong and hold their breath for a long time. They learn to move at the same time as their teammates. Judges give them scores for how well they dance and move. The sport is now called artistic swimming.

At the Olympics

Artistic swimming has been in the Summer Olympics since 1984. Teams can have up to eight swimmers. They wear matching swimsuits and wear special nose clips. The pool must be very deep so swimmers do not touch the bottom. Russia and the United States have won many medals.

Fun Facts

• Swimmers must smile even when they are out of breath.
• They use nose clips so water does not go up their nose.
• Swimmers can hold their breath for over a minute during routines.

Did You Know?

Synchronized swimmers are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool during a routine, even though the pool can be nine feet deep.