Open Water Swimming
What is it?
What to do Next?
Activity Types
Just like we are all different, so are the opportunities available to us as unique individuals. Deciding what you prefer based on your skills and preferences is an exciting journey.
Keep searching below to find out more.
Simply Snapfacts
Why do swimmers push explosively off pool walls during turns?
Strong turns can save valuable seconds during races.
Pool Swimming
0
Why do Olympic swimmers wear tight racing suits?
Streamlined suits reduce drag and improve efficiency through the water.
Swimming
0
Why do lifesaving competitions include mannequin rescues?
Events simulate emergency rescue situations used by real lifeguards.
Lifesaving
0
Why are para swimmers grouped into classifications?
Classification systems create fair racing between athletes with similar impairments.
Para Swimming
0
Why is freestyle usually the fastest swimming stroke?
Alternating arm action and continuous kicking create powerful forward speed.
Freestyle Swimming
0
SIMPLY FACTS
Simply History
Swimming has been part of the modern Olympic Games since Athens 1896.
Swimming has been part of the modern Olympic Games since Athens 1896.
Open Water Swimming became an Olympic event at the Beijing 2008 Games with the 10 km marathon swim.
Para Swimming has been part of the Paralympic Games since the first Paralympics in Rome in 1960.
Swimming has been part of the modern Olympic Games since Athens 1896.
Swimming has been part of the modern Olympic Games since Athens 1896.
Swimming has been part of the modern Olympic Games since Athens 1896.
Simply Comparisons
What is it all about?
Swimming Relay
Swimming Relay is a team aquatics race where swimmers take turns racing a set distance.
Freestyle Swimming
Swimmers usually use front crawl, focusing on breathing, rhythm and speed through the water.
Lifesaving
Athletes practise rescue-based swimming, board and beach events that build safety skills.
Open Water Swimming
Swimmers race or explore outdoors in lakes, rivers or seas, building endurance and safety awareness.
Para Swimming
Adapted swimming events where disabled athletes compete using different strokes and classifications.
Pool Swimming
Swimmers train or race in pools, practising strokes, breathing and speed.
Swimming
Swimmers use frog-like kicks and sweeping arms, focusing on timing and glide.
Olympic Status
Swimming Relay
Summer Olympics, 1896
Freestyle Swimming
Summer Olympics, 1896
Lifesaving
Non-Olympic
Open Water Swimming
Summer Olympics, 2008
Para Swimming
Paralympics, 1960
Pool Swimming
Summer Olympics, 1896
Swimming
Summer Olympics, 1896
Starting Age
Swimming Relay
6+ Years
Freestyle Swimming
4+ Years
Lifesaving
8+ Years
Open Water Swimming
8+ Years
Para Swimming
4+ Years
Pool Swimming
4+ Years
Swimming
4+ Years
Players
Swimming Relay
1
Freestyle Swimming
1
Lifesaving
1 or team
Open Water Swimming
1
Para Swimming
1
Pool Swimming
1
Swimming
1
Length of Play
Swimming Relay
Seconds to several hours depending on distance
Freestyle Swimming
Seconds to hours depending on event or distance
Lifesaving
15–30 minutes per heat; session varies
Open Water Swimming
Seconds to hours depending on event or distance
Para Swimming
Seconds to hours depending on event or distance
Pool Swimming
Seconds to hours depending on event or distance
Swimming
Seconds to hours depending on event or distance
Simply Try
Let the Journey Begin
The Discovery Missions are designed to introduce the sport, in a fun and inclusive way.
- Read the Discovery Mission and learn what you’ll be doing.
- Complete the Mission friend, family member, trusted adult or just you,and have fun!
- If you wish to, Record and reflect on your experience by writing in your Personal Journal.
- Earn an Adventurer Badge for each completed Discovery Mission.
- Unlock your Adventurer Certificate when you have completed 4 of your chosen Discovery Missions.
Search for a Local Club
Explore Activity Types
After exploring this page below, and discovering all about the activity, and deciding that you wish to learn more, progress as a Trailblazor by exploring the Activity types to decide which one interests you.
On Activity Type Pages, you will have the opportunity to attempt Simply Grow Missions to develop your skills, and decide if you wish to challenge yourself with Simply Inspire Missions to progress as an Activity Ambassador.
Browse Equipment
Browse Pre-Loved
Pre-loved shopping is a smart and sustainable way to find quality items at great value. From sports equipment and books to games, hobbies and everyday essentials, many pre-loved items have been carefully looked after and are ready for their next adventure. Browse trusted brands, discover hidden gems and find products that have already stood the test of time.
Browse New
Spending money is an important decision, so it’s worth exploring your options before you buy. Browse a variety of stores to compare products, prices and services, helping you find the right item at the right value. Whether you’re looking for sports equipment, books, games or hobby supplies, take the time to shop around and make an informed choice.
Simply Tip: Create a wishlist for birthdays, save or earn pocket money by doing chores.
Test your friends & family's knowledge by flipping Simply Snapfacts
Inspire-Me Galleries
Challenge-Me Galleries
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Hip Hop
0
When did Synchronised Diving become an Olympic sport?
Synchronised Diving became an Olympic event at the Sydney 2000 Games.
Synchronised Diving
0