Often called underwater ballet, this elegant sport requires more strength than one would assume. Imagine a gymnastic dance routine done in a pool. In the deep end. Underwater. While wearing full makeup. The origins of the sport date back to 1924, when a group of Canadian women, led by water polo player and diver, Margaret Seller, developed what they called ‘ornamental swimming’ from lifesaving and swimming techniques. Within a year, rules were established and the first competitions were organised. Every 4 years, during the olympics, we watch graceful women perform choreographed underwater routines to music. Cool fact: synchronized swimming is one of only two sports with only female competitors (the other is rhythmic gymnastics!)
Here are Health Fitness Revolution’s Top 10 Health Benefits of Synchronized Swimming:
Works the Brain: Anytime there is a routine to be memorized, the brain is working to remember and retain it. Keeping the brain active is a key component to both creating new neural pathways and keeping the existing ones healthy.
Flexibility: Studies show that synchronized swimmer rank only second to gymnasts in flexibility. Many of the moves and routines required of these women make them ultra-flexible.
Increased aerobic capacity: tests also show that synchronized swimmers rank only second to long distance runners in aerobic capacity. Extended periods of breathe holding while being active contribute to this.
Increased Lung Capacity: most synchro swimmers can hold their breathe for 3 minutes, although most routines only require them to hold it for 1 minute at a time.
