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Fin swimming, is a water sport using the technique of swimming wearing a single fin to aid propulsion. Fin swimming is a technique popular with free divers, and has its own range of competitions, over three disciplines; surface, apnea and immersion.
Popularity
Although to many, the use of mono-fins is purely an aid within recreational swimming and diving. All competition is regulated by The Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS) which is the World Underwater Federation of diver training.
Location
Fin swimming can be practised in any water suitable for swimming or diving, either pool, sea or lake.
Age
There are no age restrictions to Fin Swimming, although participants should be competent swimmers or divers before attempting the technique, making it unsuitable for young children.
Ability
Fin-swimming is an aid to propulsion not a short cut to the basics of swimming or diving. Fin-swimming necessitates and will develop ankle muscles. In common with all other water sports it is essential you participate with a companion, never alone.
Description
Fin-swimming is the propulsion of a swimmer using a mono-fin, either on the water surface or underwater, using only leg and ankle muscle strength. Surface racing is kicking on the surface, where breathing is allowed. Apnea racing is kicking under or at the surface with no breathing allowed. Immersion racing is kicking underwater while breathing off of a scuba tank and regulator.
Potential
There are competitions for fin swimmers both at national and international levels. To most people fin swimming is an enhancement enabling participants to swim faster or more powerfully, which is particularly important for both free and scuba divers.
Closely
Related Activities
Swimming 592, Scuba 205, Free diving 782, Apnea 1068.
Cost
A reasonable quality mono-fin can be purchased for from around £50. There are no other costs involved with fin-swimming other than those associated with the form of swimming involved.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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