Natation

Natation, or swimming, is the sport and activity of moving through water by propulsion with limbs. It is practiced for recreation, fitness, lifesaving, and competition, and occurs in pools, open water, and sometimes natural bodies of water.

Swimming has ancient roots in many cultures. In the modern era, organized clubs and national associations formed in the 19th century, and swimming gained Olympic status in the late 1800s. The sport is governed internationally by World Aquatics, which oversees competitions and records, and works with national federations.

Competitive swimming centers on four main strokes: freestyle (often the front crawl), backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Medley events combine these strokes. Technique focuses on propulsion, body position, breathing, and efficiency.

Swimmers train with sets that mix endurance and speed, often in pools measured in meters or yards. Competitions range from sprints to long distances, including national championships and world championships, culminating in the Olympic Games. World records are maintained by World Aquatics.

Regular swimming improves cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility, while being low-impact. Safety emphasizes supervision, lifeguards, and swimming ability to prevent drowning. Common equipment includes swimsuits, goggles, and swim caps; training aids include kickboards, pull buoys, and fins.