What is Synchro
Synchronised Swimming (synchro) is a combination of strokes, sculling techniques
and figures. It is often described as ballet in the water. Synchronised swimmers
synchronise not only with each other but also with the music. A typical top level
synchronised swimmer's schedule includes swim workouts, weight training,
endurance, flexibility, landdrill (drilling the routine on land) and dance/gymnastics.
A competitive junior synchronised swimmer swims both figures and routine.
Figures are short pre-determined movements. A senior swimmers swims a technical
routine and a free routine. Routines are swum to music where the competitors
combine strokes and (hybrid) figures. Technical routines include pre-determined
elements which must be swam in a specific order. Routines are judged on technical
skills, music interpretation, synchronisation and performance.
In New Zealand a synchronised swimmer starts by sitting star awards. Star awards
test the skills of a swimmer through the levels. Once a certain level is obtained the
swimmer can move to the next level. There are 10 levels, after 3 levels are passed
the swimmer may take part at the national championships. Synchronised swimmers
who start the sport at a later age can enter into the Aquanauts section at the
National Championships.
