Spectators' Guide to Synchro

Synchronised swimming is a creative, artistic and spectacular sport, which requires athletes to develop strength, co-ordination, and flexibility. 'Synchro' has strong links to the sporting activities of gymnastics, dance, swimming, diving and water polo. Synchronised swimmers require the flexibility and strength of gymnasts, the creativity and rhythm of dancers, the strength and fitness levels of swimmers, the co-ordination and body control of divers and the leg strength and eggbeater kick ability of water polo players.

Synchro exists as both an invidual and team sport. Swimmers can work on their own or with a duet partner or as part of a team of 4 - 8 people. It involves many different water based activities, for example, swimming to music, underwater swimming and making up routines.

Synchro is an Olympic Sport and has been since 1984 when Great Britain came 4th, this provides athletes with the ultimate goal in any sport - an Olympic Gold Medal. However, Great Britian will not be sending a team to the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.