In artistic swimming, a Walkover is a dynamic movement where a swimmer moves their legs through the air in a split position to transition from one body position to another. It mimics the look of a gymnastic walkover, but performed in the water.
There are two main types: the Front Walkover and the Back Walkover.
1. Front Walkover
In a Front Walkover, the swimmer starts at the surface and moves forward into the water.
- The Start: The swimmer begins in a Front Layout position (lying flat on their stomach, face in the water).
- The Motion: They lift one leg up and over in a wide arc while the body follows.
- The Split: As the first leg moves, the swimmer reaches a full split position in the air.
- The Finish: The second leg follows the first until the swimmer is underwater, usually finishing in a Back Layout position or transitioning into the next move.
2. Back Walkover
A Back Walkover moves in the opposite direction and starts from the back.
- The Start: The swimmer begins in a Back Layout position (lying flat on their back).
- The Motion: They arch their back slightly and lift one leg overhead toward the water behind them.
- The Split: Just like the front version, the swimmer maintains a wide, straight split as the legs pass through the highest point.
- The Finish: The swimmer disappears beneath the surface, following the arc of their legs, and finishes in a Front Layout position underwater.
What Judges Look For
To get a high score, a swimmer must demonstrate:
- Height: The swimmer tries to keep their hips and legs as far out of the water as possible.
- Extension: The legs must stay perfectly straight with toes pointed.
- Control: the movement should be smooth and “continuous,” meaning the swimmer shouldn’t jerk or pause during the arc.
- The Split: Judges check for a full $180^circ$ angle between the legs.
The Purpose of the Move
Swimmers use walkovers to create flow in a routine. Because the move is graceful and slow, it allows the audience to see the swimmer’s flexibility and strength. It also acts as a bridge, helping the swimmer flip from their front to their back (or vice versa) without stopping the performance.