Finswimming

Finswimming is a form of underwater sport that involves the use of a monofin or bi-fins to propel the swimmer through the water. The sport is governed by the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) and is practiced in many countries around the world.

History

Finswimming originated in the early 20th century as a means of improving swimming speed. The first finswimming competitions were held in the 1950s in Europe. The sport was officially recognized by the CMAS in 1970.

Equipment

Finswimmers use a variety of equipment, including monofins, bi-fins, snorkels, and wetsuits. The monofin, which is a single fin that covers both feet, is the most commonly used piece of equipment in finswimming. Bi-fins, which are individual fins worn on each foot, are also used, particularly in bi-fins events.

Events

Finswimming events can be divided into pool and open water events. Pool events are held in a swimming pool and include distances of 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m. Open water events are held in natural bodies of water and include distances of 6km, 15km, and 20km.

Techniques

There are two main techniques used in finswimming: the dolphin kick and the flutter kick. The dolphin kick, which is used with the monofin, involves a simultaneous downward thrust of both legs. The flutter kick, which is used with bi-fins, involves alternating upward and downward thrusts of the legs.

Competitions

Finswimming competitions are held at the local, national, and international level. The most prestigious competition is the Finswimming World Championships, which is organized by the CMAS. Other major competitions include the European Finswimming Championships and the Asian Finswimming Championships.

See also

• Underwater sports
• Swimming (sport)
• Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques