In PIX: The many faces of synchronised swimming

Synchronized swimming, popularly known as Synchro, comprises swimming, dance and gymnastics.

Synchronised swimming can be described as ‘water ballet’, as it consists of dance-like elaborate movements that swimmers make to music.

It brings out the best in a swimmer at solos, duets or teams.

This sport seems easy from a distance but it requires a lot of strength, grace, flexibility and precise timing.

Rediff.com brings you stunning pictures of the sport from the 16th FINA World Championships in Kazan

The Russia team compete in the women's free combination synchronised swimming at the 16th FINA World Championships in Kazan. Photograph: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

The Ukraine team in action. Photograph: Adam Pretty/Getty Images

Spain competes in women's free combination synchronised swimming. Photograph: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

The Brazilian women in action. Photograph: Clive Rose/Getty Images

Fance’s Margaux Emmanuelle Chretien looks confident as she competes in the women's solo free synchronized swimming final. Photograph: Clive Rose/Getty Images

Synchronised swimming made its Olympic debut as an exhibition event in the 1952 and 1980 Games. Photograph: Clive Rose/Getty Images

Breathing techniques are of utmost importance and the swimmers use a nose clip to prevent an intake of water through the nostrils. Photograph: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images