Eyewire Summer Games: Rhythmic Gymnastics vs. Synchronized Swimming

VS competitions are all about team work.  So what better sports to emphasize the importance of team coordination than rhythmic gymnastics and synchronized swimming!  Whether by land or by sea, both these sports emphasize athleticism, coordination, and outfits that sparkle brighter than the noonday sun.  Let the Games begin!

Rhythmic Gymnastics

Rhythmic gymnastics combines elements of ballet, gymnastics and dance.  The sport is done either solely or in a group of 5 or more, and may include the incorporation of one of the following apparatuses: rope, hoop, ball, club, and ribbon.  Gymnastic teams are judged based on leaps, balances, pirouettes, apparatus handling, and execution.  Individual rhythmic gymnastics joined the Olympics in 1984, and the group competition was added in 1996.

Synchronized Swimming

For those who like the gymnastic and dance of rhythmic gymnastics, but are more aquatically inclined, synchronized swimming may be your sport!  To excel at synchronized swimming you need to perfect your sculls – hand movements that propel the body in a desired direction, and eggbeater kick – a form of treading water that allows for stability and height above the water.  Routines are scored on a scale of 100, with points given for artistic impression, execution, and difficulty.  Synchronized swimming also made its Olympic debut during the 1984 Summer Olympics.

The usual bonuses
Earn 5,000 points – 2,500 bonus
Earn 15,000 points – 5,000 bonus
Earn 25,000 points – 10,000 bonus
For every 25,000 points above 25,000 – 5,000 bonus
Member of winning team (if you’ve scored at least 2,500 points) – 10,000 bonus
Highest scorer on each team – 5,000 bonus
Player with #1 overall score – 10,000 bonus
Player with #2 overall score – 5,000 bonus
Player with #3 overall score – 2,500 bonus

The competition for Olympic glory begins at 11:00 AM ET on 8/23 and runs for 24 hours.

Artwork by Daniela Gamba