The extinct and unusual swimming sport of "underwater swimming" challenged competitors to swim as far and as long as possible beneath the surface, using any stroke or technique to propel themselves forward. This demanding event tested both physical stamina and mental fortitude.

When competitors finally surfaced, their time spent underwater and the distance they traveled were measured. Distance was recorded in a straight line from the starting point. Scoring combined both elements of performance: swimmers earned two points for each meter swum underwater and one point for every second they stayed submerged.
This unique discipline reached the pinnacle of sport by featuring as an official event at the 1900 Paris Olympics. However, it made only one appearance on the international stage, and there are no records of it being included in competitive swimming events thereafter.
Despite its intriguing nature, it is not surprsing that underwater swimming struggled to capture widespread appeal, particularly among spectators. The lack of visibility beneath the surface likely contributed to its decline, as audiences were unable to follow the action in real-time. Today, the sport remains a fascinating but forgotten chapter in the history of competitive swimming.
Related Pages
- Underwater Swimming at the 1900 Paris Olympic Games
- Breath Holding — How long can you hold your breath? An old test for assessing aerobic fitness.
- Swimming Plunge for Distance - another extinct swimming sport.
- List of Underwater Sports
- About Extinct and Ancient Sports
- List of Extinct Sports
