12.07.2015 Views

fina synchronised swimming manual for judges, coaches & referees

fina synchronised swimming manual for judges, coaches & referees

fina synchronised swimming manual for judges, coaches & referees

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

2009 – 2013 FINA SYNCHRONISED SWIMMING MANUALFOR JUDGES, COACHES & REFEREESSECTION III8. JUDGING DIFFICULTYDifficulty is justifiably, a large part of the Technical Merit score, counting 40% in Soloand 30% <strong>for</strong> Duets and Teams. The difficulty level of a routine is a test of theswimmer's skill level. In evaluating Difficulty, the judge determines the magnitude ofthat challenge <strong>for</strong> the competitor. The best routines will include actions of high leveldifficulty distributed throughout the routine from beginning to end. When athletesmeet the challenge with demonstrations of excellent execution of difficult actions, fullcredit must be given. Analysis of the routine must always determine whether theexecution per<strong>for</strong>mance may have devalued the difficulty. For example, a full twist atmid-calf height cannot be credited with the same difficulty as a full twist with a waterlevel above the knees.Judging the difficulty of a routine is a complex task requiring a high level ofknowledge and experience. The knowledge and understanding of factors governingthe relative difficulties of various figure transitions must be applied to the analysis ofall kinds of actions in the routines, not just the figures. Judges must also consider thedifficulty of all strokes and propulsion, figures and hybrids, transitions, riskmovements, patterns and pool coverage.Judges Consider:1. DIFFICULTY of strokes and propulsion techniquesThe difficulty of strokes and propulsion is related to the amount of energy, powerand strength needed to per<strong>for</strong>m the movements, as well as their complexity.! Energy required <strong>for</strong> movements:Difficulty increases as stress is placed on the cardiovascular systemthrough the demands of the routine such as the:- tempo (quick paced more demanding)- amount of travel (distance covered)- speed of travel- routine content (maintaining height, underwater time, number ofdifficult actions closely spaced in time).! Power and strength neededMoving powerfully and continuously throughout the routine is moredemanding than a routine with significant resting spots. Strong propulsionshould be evident when slower tempos are used.2009 – 2013 FINA Synchronised Swimming Manual <strong>for</strong> Judges, Coaches & Referees 159

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!