fina synchronised swimming manual for judges, coaches & referees

2009 – 2013 FINA SYNCHRONISED SWIMMING MANUALFOR JUDGES, COACHES & REFEREESSECTION III! Smooth and seemingly effortless movementsEase of motion and seemingly effortless action, must be shown in allpositions, movements and transitions, from beginning to end.3. EXECUTION of transitionsTransitions are judged by the same principles as those guiding the judgement ofstroking, propulsion and figures. Whether from stroke to figure, figure to stroke,within a figure, or the changing patterns in a duet or team, all transitions shouldflow from start to finish - smoothly, logically and effortlessly. They should beefficient and purposeful.! Strength and powerLook for sufficient power and strength to maintain or achieve desired bodylevels during transitions. For example, during twists, crane joins, split tojoin, etc. the height level should remain constant. Look for strength andpower during changes in stroking and moving into figures.! Stability and controlThere shouldn’t be any excessive, extraneous movements, unplannedtravel, loss of control, extension or height during a transition. Temposhould be consistent (except when for choreographic effect) with clear,fluid motion from start to finish. Action should flow from stroke to figureand figure to stroke, with no loss of height or efficiency. Body lines mustbe maintained with seemingly effortless motion within transitions.Descents must be completed through the surface until the toes are under,with clearly planned underwater movements to return to the surface.! Smoothness and effortless action throughoutFluidity must be seen through all transitions. The most effective transitionsare those hardly perceived by the viewer and are accomplished sosmoothly and naturally they are finished before one is aware what hashappened.4. EXECUTION of patterns and pattern changesIn this element the judge does not consider the types, number, or difficulty of thepatterns - only the excellence of their performance.! Clear, precise formations, easily identifiedThe pattern shape must be easily identifiable, with accurate positioning ofthe athletes in relation to each other and to the pool space.! Maintenance of the pattern shapeAthletes must maintain the pattern formation while moving and performingfigures and hybrid actions.2009 – 2013 FINA Synchronised Swimming Manual for Judges, Coaches & Referees 155