Swim England North East offers a variety of aquatic disciplines through numerous clubs across the region. Below is an overview of each discipline, including brief descriptions and links to find local clubs.
Artistic Swimming
Artistic Swimming is a demanding and skilful sport that combines strength, flexibility, and synchronised movements performed to music. Athletes execute routines ranging from two and a half to five minutes, either solo, in duets, or as part of a team. Approximately two-thirds of a routine is performed underwater, requiring exceptional breath control and endurance.
Competitions are categorised into Solos, Duets, Teams, and Combo routines, with technical and free routines judged separately.
To discover Artistic Swimming clubs in the North East, visit the Artistic Swimming Clubs page.
Diving
Diving is an exhilarating sport that involves leaping from platforms or springboards at various heights, executing precise body positions during flight before entering the water. Divers require strength, flexibility, and spatial awareness.
The North East has produced notable Olympic gold medallists like Jack Laugher and Chris Mears. Aspiring divers can begin with lessons that lead to age-group competitions, progressing to regional and national levels. Masters Diving opportunities are also available for adults.
For information on Diving clubs in the region, please refer to the Diving Clubs section.
Swimming (including Masters Swimming, Para-Swimming, Open Water)
Swimming is a vital lifelong skill offering diverse opportunities, from recreational activity to competitive sports. It serves as a foundation for various water-based activities and promotes overall health and fitness. Local pools often provide programmes catering to all ages and abilities, with clubs offering pathways into competitive swimming at various levels.
- Masters Swimming: Designed for individuals over 18, Masters Swimming encompasses everything from casual fitness swimming to organised competitions, emphasising fun and camaraderie.
- Para-Swimming: An inclusive programme integrating swimmers with physical, visual, or intellectual impairments into the sport, providing pathways from grassroots to elite levels.
- Open Water Swimming: Offers a unique experience outside the pool, taking place in natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and seas. It is known for its adventurous and liberating nature, appealing to those seeking new challenges.
To find Swimming clubs in the North East, explore the Swimming Clubs directory.
Water Polo
Water Polo is a fast-paced team sport played in a swimming pool, combining elements of swimming, basketball, and football. Teams aim to score goals by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s net, requiring endurance, strategy, and teamwork.
For details on Water Polo clubs in the North East, visit the Water Polo Clubs page.
Engaging in any of these aquatic disciplines through local clubs provides opportunities for skill development, competition, and social interaction, fostering a lifelong appreciation for water sports.