Rescue & lifesaving : aquatic passion serving safety
Rescue & lifesaving combines physical performance with lifesaving techniques. Born out of the desire to refine sea rescue techniques, this practice has evolved over time to become a sport in its own right, blending competition with preparation for emergency situations.
Baywatch
Since ancient times, accounts describe the earliest techniques used to rescue shipwreck survivors. They have, of course, evolved considerably over time. However, it was in the early 20th century, in Australia, that this practice took shape as a sport. Faced with the growth of beaches and the influx of bathers, local lifeguards organized the first competitions, blending swimming with rescue techniques.
Popularized by the famous series Baywatch, sports lifesaving became internationalized, with the creation of national federations and the emergence of international competitions. Year after year, new events have been integrated, reflecting the evolution of rescue techniques and contemporary needs for water safety.
The events
Rescue & lifesaving comprises a varied set of events, demanding athletic qualities and perfect mastery of lifesaving techniques. Among the most common events are:
- Whitewater swimming : A race in whitewater simulating natural conditions, highlighting the swimmer's power and technique.
- Mannequin relay : Participants swim to a mannequin, tow it to the finish line, thus simulating the rescue of a victim at sea.
- Beach flags : A sprint race where competitors rush to grab a flag planted in the sand, simulating the speed of intervention in an emergency situation on the beach.
- The Simulated Emergency Response Competition (SERC) : A combined event simulating multiple emergency rescue scenarios, evaluating both the speed and effectiveness of the rescuers.
How to choose fins for optimal performance ?
Choosing the right fins for Rescue & lifesaving is essential to optimize performance. For sprint events like the 200 meters, longer fins offer the advantage of maintaining speed over the distance. However, for events requiring explosive power, such as mannequin towing, shorter and stiffer fins are preferable. To help you, use our selector. For official events, be sure to check the maximum allowable length !
Rescue & lifesaving, much more than just a competition, embodies the very essence of protection and safety in aquatic environments. By combining athletic performance with lifesaving techniques, this discipline helps to train competent and responsive rescuers. With Breier fins, you can be assured of having the best equipment to meet these challenges, whether it's over long distances or in critical moments where every second counts. To learn more about Rescue & lifesaving and its various disciplines, visit the International Lifesaving Federation.