No matter what the distance or stroke, the object of any Swimming race is to complete the course in the shortest possible time.

There are four main competitive Swimming styles: backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle. With 46 events in the Olympic and Paralympic timetable, any Swimming competition will always prove to be a fast and exciting day out! As a sport that requires dedication and passion, there are over 150 000 in the UK people who are also committed and involved in competitive Swimming.

Did you know...?

The pressure and resistance of the water makes your body work that little bit harder. 30 minutes of activity in the water is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land.

Psychological studies have shown that swimmers report significantly less tension, depression, anger, confusion, and more vigour after exercising compared to before.

American swimmer Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time with a total of 22 medals (18 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze).

Paralympic star Ellie Simmonds, a past competitor at the School Games, became the first person to set a world record at the London Aquatics Centre in the 200m Individual Medley. She then went on to break this record again on her way to victory at the London Paralympic Games.