Question 1

What is artistic swimming?

Accepted Answer

Picture yourself performing acrobatics, exuding grace, and synchronizing with music and teammates—all without taking a breath. Welcome to the captivating world of artistic swimming!

Artistic swimming seamlessly blends swimming, dance, and gymnastics into mesmerizing performances in the water. Athletes execute choreographed routines in solos, duets, or teams. These routines feature a blend of acrobatic feats, elegant lifts, dazzling spins, and intricate formations, all delivered with poise and artistry to match the music.

To learn more about artistic swimming, check out these YouTube videos.

Question 2

Is artistic swimming different from synchronized swimming?

Accepted Answer

Artistic swimming, also known as synchronized swimming, encompasses the same sport. Initially dubbed synchronized swimming, the sport underwent a name transformation in 2017 when the International Swimming Federation (formerly FINA, now World Aquatics) officially rebranded it as artistic swimming. This change aimed to accentuate the sport's creative and expressive dimensions.

By adopting the name "artistic swimming," the sport sought to highlight its artistic and imaginative elements, setting it apart from traditional competitive swimming disciplines such as freestyle, backstroke, butterfly, and breaststroke.

Question 3

What are the benefits of artistic swimming?

Accepted Answer

Artistic swimming offers athletes the opportunity to rise to the top with dedication and practice.

This unique sport demands a blend of attributes from various disciplines. It calls for the strength and power of weightlifters, the endurance and speed of distance swimmers, the flexibility and finesse of gymnasts, and the precision of dancers to synchronize movements with music and teammates.

Engaging in artistic swimming not only enhances physical fitness but also fosters mental resilience and discipline. Athletes emerge with enduring mental and physical benefits that leave a lasting impact on their lives.

Question 4

What age and skill level do you need to be to join?

Accepted Answer

We welcome athletes from ages 6 - 18. Novice athletes need to be able to swim a minimum of 25 yards unassisted and be comfortable in deep water up to 8 feet and more. If your athlete is not ready to commit to Novice, check out our Pre-Novice Program!

Question 5

Am I too old to join artistic swimming?

Accepted Answer

It is never too old to start artistic swimming! We welcome athletes ages 6-18 with all skill abilities. Stay tuned for a masters team.

Question 6

What equipment do I need for synchronized swimming?

Accepted Answer

All athletes should arrive to practice in a swimsuit with workout clothes on top and running shoes. Athletes should have their hair up and sunscreen on when they arrive. 
Tinted goggles are recommended for day practice and untinted goggles for evening practices.

NOVICE: One piece swimsuit, workout clothes, running shoes, flip flops, cap, goggles, 2+ nose clips, towel, water, sunscreen, yoga mat, parka

INTERMEDIATE: One piece swimsuit, workout clothes, running shoes, flip flops, cap, goggles, 2+ nose clips, towel, water, sunscreen, yoga mat, parka, resistance band

AGE GROUP: One piece or athletic two piece swimsuit, workout clothes, running shoes, flip flops, cap, goggles, 2+ nose clips, towel, water, sunscreen, yoga mat, parka, resistance band, waterproof ankle weights, jump rope

Question 7

Where are practices held?

Accepted Answer

Practices are held on UCSD campus. On weekends, we practice at the outdoor Canyonview Aquatic Center. On weeknights we practice indoors at the Natatorium.

Question 8

Do practices run all year long?

Accepted Answer

Our athletes train September-June and participate in summer camps and clinics.

Question 9

What if I don’t want to compete? Do you offer a recreational program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a recreational program. Please see the programs tab for more details.

Question 10

Are there any shows that family and friends can attend?

Accepted Answer

For Novice athletes, there are two water shows each season for family and friends to come view.

For Intermediate and Age Group athletes, in addition to the two water shows, there are anywhere from 2-6 local, regional and national competitions.

Question 11

Are there any safety measures in place during practices?

Accepted Answer

Every coach at San Dieguito Sea Dragons has passed a background check and USAAS Safesport. Our coaches maintain CCP1+ Coaches Training and CPR/First Aid. A lifeguard is present on deck at all times during practice.

Question 12

How do I sign up?

Accepted Answer

Please visit the "Register" tab.

Question 13

I am a former artistic swimmer interested in coaching. Who should I contact?

Accepted Answer

Please email bod@seadragonssd.org with your resume/artistic swimming  experience and a brief coaching philosophy statement.

Question 14

Do you offer financial assistance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer partial scholarships to support athletes who may need financial assistance. We are committed to making artistic swimming accessible to as many athletes as possible. To inquire about financial assistance and apply for a partial scholarship, please email us at bod@seadragonssd.org.

Question 15

How do you donate or sponsor San Dieguito Sea Dragons?

Accepted Answer

San Dieguito Sea Dragons is a 501(c)3 non-profit youth sports organization, 
Federal Tax ID (EIN): 88-4357521. 
San Dieguito Sea Dragons appreciates the generosity of individuals in the community and welcomes your tax-deductible donations. Please email us for more details!

Frequently Asked Questions