The pools in swimming are characterized by routes greater than 800 meters, an aspect that differs from other sports such as athletics. In this, cross-country tests are considered from 5 kilometers.
Despite this, it is necessary to understand that the surfaces on which each sport is practiced are different. The resistance in the water increases considerably with respect to that of the air and this influences the ability of the athlete.
However, there are swimming pools that exceed one kilometer of travel. Although they cannot be compared in distance to a running marathon, they are considered tests of a lot of effort and endurance.
What are the funds in swimming?
As mentioned above, they are considered long-distance events in swimming from 800 meters with lifeguard certification. This type of tour takes place inside the Olympic pools and different official competitions.
Within the Olympic Games, the 800 and 1,500 meter events are the only swimming pools that exist so far. These can only be accomplished through freestyle.
Beyond the kilometer and a half, swimming takes place in open water and obstacles continue to add to this sporting discipline.
Open water swimming
Swimming in open water is synonymous with long distance events. Added to the inclemency of the water surface are the most demanding and long routes that can be done in this sporting discipline.
In terms of competition, several distances stand out in open water that enter the category of swimming pools.
Championships endorsed by FINA
Being one of the most dangerous modalities in swimming, open water must have a series of specifications endorsed by the International Swimming Federation (FINA).
- The aquatic surfaces must have little waves or water currents.
- The waters must be duly certified as healthy surfaces and little dangerous for bathers, this in case of contamination or similar.
- Each competition can take place in both fresh and salt water, as long as it complies with the FINA specifications.
- Departures, changes of direction or turns and arrival must be properly marked.
Among the open water championships endorsed by FINA, the world swimming championships, the Olympic Games, the 10-kilometer marathon swimming world cup circuit, among others, stand out.
These have competitions comprised of 5, 10 and 25 kilometers of route, both male and female. On the other hand, all competitors must perform freestyle as the only way to move in the water.
Points to consider by swimmers
During the development of the competition, regardless of the distance, the participants must take into account a series of aspects. These could lead to disqualification from the competition or expulsion from the event they are in.
- They will not be able to receive help from any person or object.
- They will not be able to walk inside the water surface.
- Each swimmer will be identified with a number during the competition that will be located on the upper back area with waterproof ink.
- Swimmers who exceed the established time limit without finishing will be pulled out of the water. However, if the referee allows it, they may finish the race.
- Competitors can ingest substances in amounts allowed by the referees.
More about funds in open water swimming
Swimming in open water has been a part of human history since ancient times. At that time it was used by troops in various wars or to move in the sea, lakes, rivers or similar surfaces.
However, with the passage of time it has become a sports discipline comprised of long-distance competitions. Currently, open water swimming pools are part of the sports world and each of their competitions attracts thousands of people, both athletes and spectators.
It should be noted that when held on more complex water surfaces, athletes dedicated to practicing swimming dips must have a different preparation, at least with respect to pool swimmers.
If you want to know more about this preparation or about open water funds, we invite you to visit the nearest swimming academy.
Why is it linked to swimming?
If you are a person who loves to practice swimming, you probably understand the importance and how flexibility influences it. However, it is worth clarifying and taking it into account.
This sport is made up of a series of movements in which the joints and muscle groups play a relevant role. The joint width allows the different technical gestures of swimming to develop in a timely manner.
The crawl style is considered the most important in contemporary swimming. Beyond being the most relevant, it is one of the most used, even the first to be learned by most people. In that order of ideas, the stroke technique should be one of the most frequently socialized topics, both by teachers and students.
In this case, the main theme is the front crawl stroke technique. This movement seems easier than it seems, but you should not overlook it at any time.
Air phase or recovery
The aerial phase is distinguished as recovery thanks to the stroke technique. It is practically the way to regain strength and position to return to the pulling phase, a necessary movement for the swimmer. Unlike the aquatic phase, it does not have any sub-phase and the movement is carried out in a single moment.
The elbow rises above the hand, being the first to emerge from the water, immediately accompanied by the forearm, wrist and hand.
After this movement, you should bring your arm forward. This gesture will cause the arm to extend, although not completely, as the elbow is held above the hand.
