Team China leaping for gold in the synchronized swimming event CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP/Getty Images
Every four years at the time of the Olympic Games, a whole new audience gets introduced to the mesmerizing sport of synchronized swimming.
It's a tantalizing blend of swimming, dance and gymnastics requiring great strength, endurance, flexibility, grace, artistry and precise timing; as well as exceptional breath control when upside down underwater. It's all delivered by smiling athletes in bright and sparkling swimsuits so there is something for everyone.
At the Rio Olympics, the synchronized swimming team events took place on Thursday, August 18 and Friday, August 19. The Russian team won the event, with China taking the silver and Japan, the bronze. The other finalists were Ukraine, Italy, Brazil, Egypt and Australia.
Click through the slide show for amazing photos from the synchronized swimming event. #12 is truly incredible
Leaping for gold Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesWhen it really counts to be in synch Getty ImagesWhen it really counts to be in synch Getty ImagesWhen it really counts to be in synch Getty ImagesWhen it really counts to be in synch Getty ImagesWhen it really counts to be in synch Getty ImagesLeaping for gold Getty ImagesLeaping for gold Getty ImagesLeaping for gold Getty ImagesSynchronized swimming requires grace and strength Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty ImagesTeam Japan - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesTeam China - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesLeaping for gold Getty ImagesTeam Brazil - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesTeam Russia - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesTeam Japan - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesTeam Australia - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesTeam Ukraine - Even the swimsuits are mesmerizing Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty ImagesUnderwater shots Getty Images
