Athletes know that every sport requires specialized skills and equipment to excel, and artistic swimming is no exception. While audiences are mesmerized by the fluid movements, high-flying jumps, and vibrant swimsuits during competitions, few see the immense effort and dedication that happen behind the scenes. It’s this rigorous preparation—the hours of practice, precision, and passion—that transforms artistic swimming into the breathtaking spectacle it is. The real magic lies in the unseen grind, making the sport truly shine in its own extraordinary way.
1. Artistic swimming routines are judged by a panel of 15 experts.
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In artistic swimming competitions, routines are scored by a jury split into three panels, each made up of five judges. These panels evaluate distinct aspects of the performance. For technical routines, one panel zeroes in on execution, another on the overall impression, and the third on the specific required elements. When it comes to free routines, the focus changes—one panel judges the performance, another critiques the artistic presentation, and the last evaluates the level of difficulty. It’s this detailed, multi-faceted scoring system that ensures every nuance of the swimmer’s artistry and skill is recognized.
2. Athletes often design and apply their own makeup.
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Facing budget constraints, many artistic swimming teams can’t afford professional makeup artists for every competition. That means the swimmers step up, becoming their own glam squad. They design and apply their own makeup, creating bold, cohesive looks that not only enhance their performance but also stay flawless in the water. It’s a skill as essential as their routines—ensuring their artistry shines both in and out of the pool.
3. They spend a lot of money on makeup.
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Preparing for a competition isn’t just physically demanding—it’s expensive. On average, each swimmer burns through a bottle of sunscreen every week and replaces their swimsuit once a month. But their makeup routine isn’t just about looking good; it’s a strategic necessity.
Over their careers, artistic swimmers go through about ten lipsticks—not for glamour, but to make sure their features pop from a distance. Much like the makeup used in television production, it might look bold and dramatic up close, but from afar, it’s the perfect touch to keep their expressions visible and their performance captivating. It’s all part of the art of the sport!
4. They need to adhere to strict time frames.
In artistic swimming, routines are a masterclass in precision and timing, lasting anywhere from two and a half to five minutes, depending on the team size. But here’s the catch: no matter how many athletes are performing, every second counts. Go over or under the required time by just 15 seconds, and the team faces a penalty. It’s a high-stakes balance of artistry and discipline, where even the clock is part of the performance.
5. It’s good for heart health.
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Swimming isn’t just a workout—it’s a heart-healthy powerhouse. By boosting your body’s oxygen efficiency without overloading your heart, it’s one of the safest ways to strengthen your cardiovascular system. In fact, swimming regularly can slash your risk of heart disease by up to 40%. Dive in, and let your heart thank you!
6. Athletes can earn extra points for flexibility.
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In major competitions, athletes face more than just the pressure of performance—they must also ace a flexibility test before hitting the water. Every team member who nails the test adds a bonus point to the team’s final score, turning flexibility into a game-changer. It’s not just about grace in the pool; it’s about proving your readiness to shine.
7. Selecting the right swimsuit is essential.
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When it comes to artistic swimming, the right swimsuit is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a performance essential. Swimmers need suits that are lightweight, comfortable, and offer maximum support. That’s why designs with an “X” back and high-cut legs are a favorite—they deliver the flexibility and freedom of movement needed to nail those jaw-dropping routines. After all, in a sport where every move counts, the perfect suit can make all the difference.
8. Certain competitions have strict requirements.
Artistic swimming competitions are as intense as they are dazzling, pushing athletes to their limits in every way—from time management to makeup and even their attire. In compulsory figure events, swimmers perform precise movements under the watchful eyes of judges, who scrutinize their technique and precision. To keep the focus solely on performance, athletes must wear a plain black swimsuit (no logos allowed!) and a white swim cap, ensuring a clean, distraction-free presentation. It’s all about letting their skills shine, unadorned and unforgettable.
9. They don’t hold their breath as long as you think.
Many assume artistic swimmers can hold their breath for minutes on end, but even the athletes themselves don’t know their exact limits. Why? Because in the pool, they’re never still—they’re constantly in motion, diving under and resurfacing every few seconds during training and competitions. It’s not about holding their breath; it’s about mastering the rhythm of movement and breath, making every second count.
10. Some athletes choose not to wear nose clips.
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Nose clips are a staple for many swimmers, helping to keep water out of their nostrils during routines. While they can feel a little awkward, most athletes rely on them. But some, like Mary Killman, have mastered creative alternatives—she can seal her nostrils using just her upper lip. It’s a quirky skill that proves even in a sport as precise as artistic swimming, there’s always room for a little ingenuity!
11. They keep their eyes open underwater.
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Even without goggles, artistic swimmers keep their eyes wide open—both above and below the water. It’s a must for staying in sync with their teammates, allowing them to fine-tune their positioning and nail every move with precision. Talk about focus under pressure!
12. They’re open about their periods.
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Olympic gold medalist Kelsi Worrell once said in an interview, “Nothing is too embarrassing. We’re completely vulnerable with each other, open and ready to help.” She revealed that even something as personal as a visible tampon string isn’t a source of shame—instead, teammates will quietly point it out to offer support. It’s this level of trust and camaraderie that makes their bond unshakable, both in and out of the pool.
What sports have you participated in, and what about them did you like? If you could try any sport, which one would you choose and why? Otherwise, if you’re looking to try something new and unique, take a look at the sports outlined in this article — there’s a chance you’ve never even heard of most of them.
Preview photo credit Stefano Zocca / Unsplash, Kaboompics.com / Pexels
credits: Brightside.me
