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Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Canada's team performs in the synchronised swimming free combination routine

Synchronized swimming, popularly known as Synchro, comprises swimming, dance and gymnastics.

Rediff.com brings you stunning pictures of the sport from the 15th FINA World Championships in Barcelona.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Greece's Despoina Solomou performs in the synchronised swimming solo free routine

Synchronised swimming can be described as ‘water ballet’, as it consists of dance-like elaborate movements that swimmers make to music.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Britain's Jenna Randall performs in the synchronised swimming solo free routine

Synchronised swimming brings out the best in a swimmer at solos, duets or teams.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
China's Jiang Tingting and Jiang Wenwen perform in the synchronised swimming duet technical routine final

Men do not compete in Synchronised swimming at the Olympics like rhythmic gymnastics and softball.

But in other international and national competitions men are allowed.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Japan's team perform in the synchronised swimming free combination routine

This sport seems easy from a distance but it requires a lot of strength, grace, flexibility and precise timing.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Spain's team are seen underwater as they perform in the synchronised swimming free combination routine

Breathing techniques are of utmost importance and the swimmers use a nose clip to prevent an intake of water through the nostrils.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

July 23, 2013 08:13 IST
Greece's team perform in the synchronised swimming

Synchronised swimming made its Olympic debut as an exhibition event in the 1952 and 1980 Games.