The Art and Athleticism of Olympic Artistic Swimming

The Unique World of Artistic Swimming at the Olympics

Competing as an artistic swimmer at the Olympics requires an extraordinary blend of skills — the grace of a dancer, the flexibility of a gymnast, and the lung capacity of a deep-sea diver. To top it off, these athletes often rely on a surprising secret weapon: a large packet of gelatin. This gelatin, dissolved in water, is meticulously applied to their hair, serving as a sturdy adhesive that keeps every strand in place during their stunning performances.

“It can be incredibly stressful if pieces of your hair begin to fall out or if your headpiece unexpectedly comes loose,” said Canadian artistic swimmer Claire Scheffel. She underscored the essential role that this solidified gelatin plays in the athletes’ intricate hair and makeup routines, stating, “We really need to keep it all in place.”

Artistic swimming is renowned for its vibrant spectacle, blending elements of ballet, swimming, and gymnastics into a captivating performance set to dramatic music. Athletes, adorned in sparkly swimsuits and performing with Cirque du Soleil-level theatrical flair, evoke a unique blend of beauty and athleticism that draws crowds in. The sport made its Olympic debut in 1984 under its original title, synchronized swimming.

Despite its popularity among spectators, artistic swimming has faced an ongoing challenge in proving its legitimacy as a sport. The low point in its struggle for recognition likely occurred in 1984, when comedians Martin Short and Harry Shearer parodied inept synchronized swimmers on “Saturday Night Live,” further embedding misconceptions about the sport in popular culture. Athletes often express their frustration at the mention of that skit, as it trivializes their hard work and dedication.

To combat these stereotypes and enhance its appeal, the sport underwent a significant rebranding in 2017, adopting the name “artistic swimming.” This change not only aimed to emphasize the athleticism involved but also to broaden its audience. It marked a new era where the sport could showcase the extraordinary skills and artistry of its athletes in a way that resonates with a wider public.