The sport formerly known as synchronised swimming is now officially called artistic swimming. This change was implemented because its previous name was deemed insufficient to capture the full scope and complexity of the athletic discipline.
The Evolution to Artistic Swimming
The transformation from "synchronised swimming" to "artistic swimming" officially commenced in Tokyo, following the 2016 Olympic Games held in Rio. This rebranding reflects a broader understanding of the sport's demands and its evolution over the years.
Why the Change?
World Aquatics, the international governing body for aquatic sports including artistic swimming, recognized that "synchronized" did not adequately describe the sport. While precise synchronicity among athletes remains a crucial element, the discipline encompasses far more than just perfectly timed movements.
The new name, "artistic swimming," better highlights the multifaceted skills required, which include:
- Artistry: Expressing emotion and storytelling through choreography, music, and interpretation.
- Strength: Demonstrating immense physical power to hold challenging positions, lift teammates, and perform complex acrobatics in the water.
- Flexibility: Executing intricate movements and holds that require exceptional body control and range of motion.
- Endurance: Maintaining high levels of performance throughout demanding routines, often without touching the bottom of the pool.
- Technique: Mastering specific sculls, kicks, and hybrid movements that form the foundation of routines.
The change aims to emphasize the sport's blend of athletic prowess and creative expression, moving beyond the sole focus on unison.
| Former Name | Current Name | Rationale for Change |
|---|---|---|
| Synchronised Swimming | Artistic Swimming | World Aquatics determined that "synchronized" did not adequately describe the sport's multifaceted nature, which encompasses not only precise timing but also significant artistry, strength, flexibility, and endurance, leading to a more comprehensive new name. |
