3 of 94

General Overview for Judging Free Routines

Routine judging may be more difficult than any other sports judging task. Even with the judging split between three panels, each judge has more elements to evaluate simultaneously and continuously throughout the routine than judges of any other sport. Reliable analysis can be made only by a judge who is well prepared, who has become thoroughly familiar with each of the categories and elements to be analyzed, and who has developed a valid scale of excellence to apply to each competitor. The judge must apply those scales while utilizing the criteria as objectively as possible. With training and conscientious application of standards, all judges should be able to produce reliable and valid scores.

Knowledgeable and objective judging by application of the

designated criteria, free from prejudice and preconceptions.

4 of 94

What Judges Assess:

Judge objectively by using the criteria

The judges on each panel will assign a score for the Execution, Artistic Impression

or Difficulty scores, according to the criteria and as objectively as possible.

Each panel should be independent and the panels should not influence each other.

b) Judge what the swimmer(s) performed in front of you

Do not judge based on what you expected to see or what you saw in the past.

Do not be influenced by previous results.

c) Judge throughout the routine

The routine is from the start to the end of the accompaniment (AS 14.2). Judging begins upon a signal from the Referee or appointed official (AS 14.3).

d) Judge all swimmers and all actions in the routine

In Team, Free Combination and Highlight routines, judge all swimmers who perform or do not perform, and all actions above, at and below the surface.

5 of 94

Panel 1 – Execution (30%)

Execution - The level of excellence in performing highly specialized skills. Execution of all movements.
Synchronization - The precision of movements in unison, one with the other, and the accompaniment above, at and below the surface. Synchronization of timing of one with another and with the music.

Free Routine Scoring

Consider:	Solo	Duet, Mixed Duet, Team
EXECUTION	90%	50%
SYNCHRONIZATION	10%	50%

Page 124

FINA Manual

6 of 94

Panel 2 – Artistic Impression (40%)

Choreography
Music Interpretation
Manner of Presentation

Free Routine Scoring –

continued

Consider:	Solo	Duet, Mixed Duet, Team
CHOREOGRAPHY	100%	100%
MUSIC INTERPRETATION
MANNER OF PRESENTATION

Page 125

FINA Manual

7 of 94

Panel 3 – Difficulty (30%)

Difficulty – the quality of being hard to achieve. Difficulty of all movements and of synchronization.

Free Routine Scoring –

continued

Consider:	Solo	Duet, Mixed Duet, Team
DIFFICULTY	100%	100%

Page 125

FINA Manual

8 of 94

In Free Duet and Free Team routines, Execution is worth 50% and Synchronization is worth 50%.

True/ False:

9 of 94

Routine	Minutes
Free – Solo	2:30 minutes
Free – Duet/Mixed Duet	3:00 minutes
Free – Team	4:00 minutes

Free Routine Time Limits

There shall be an allowance of fifteen seconds – minus or plus the allotted time.

Deckwork may not exceed 10 seconds.

The walk-on may not exceed 30 seconds.

Page 9

FINA Handbook

10 of 94

Judging Execution

Page 127-130

FINA Manual

11 of 94

Overview of Execution

Execution is the level of excellence demonstrated through the swimmer’s mastery of highly specialized skills. Execution is how well the competitors do whatever they perform. The Execution score covers two areas: Execution (Solo –90%, Duet, Mixed Duet and Team –50%) and Synchronization (Solo –10%, Duet, Mixed Duet and Team –50%).

12 of 94

Hybrid figures, strokes, propulsion techniques and transitions

Height
Well-defined and accuracy
Extension, full body extension throughout action
Efficiency
Smoothness and apparent effortlessness
Stability and control
Strength, power, and energy level

13 of 94

Risk Elements: acrobatic movements

(platforms, stacks, lifts, throws) and floats

Clearly defined
Stability in achieving and maintaining position(s)
Height where appropriate
Minimal set-up and recovery time

14 of 94

Patterns and Pattern Changes

Clear, precise formations, easily identified
Maintenance of the pattern shape
Well-defined, efficient pattern changes

15 of 94

Execution of the Total Routine

Judges must remember that the Execution score is for the total routine. In some cases, fatigue may degrade execution as the routine progresses. The judge needs to consider whether the athlete maintained the same excellence from beginning to end and ensure that the score reflects the overall routine, rather than letting a problem at the end (or in the beginning or middle) become a major determinant of the total Execution award.

Consider the failed or poorly executed portion in relation to the approximate length of time it consumed out of the total routine.

16 of 94

EXECUTION	FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION - 10
The level of excellence in performing highly specialized skills. Execution of all movements.
Strokes & Propulsion	Maximum height, extension, fluidity and power in all parts of the routine. Whole body used in execution of strokes. Head first boost crotch height. Angles perfectly matched.
Figures & Hybrids	Maximum height, completion extension, accurate angles. Extreme flexibility.
Transitions	Exceptional power and efficiency. Maximum distance covered.
Patterns	Clear, accurate, even spacing between swimmers throughout the routine.
Highlights	Throws: maximum height, clean entries. Platforms: High, stable. Precise, accurate angles and movements.

17 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Near flawless with near maximum height. Minute deviations seen by ‘trained’ eye. Very strong, very powerful and very high.	Minor errors. E.g. some loss of distance travelled. Very strong, very powerful and very high.	A few minor errors. Generally high some minor differences in arm angles. Strong, powerful and high.	Generally minor errors with some obvious errors in angles. Power, height and propulsion may deteriorate.	Obvious errors in angles. Average height, basic power with rest spots evident.

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Many errors in angles and positions not clear. Several major errors at lower end of range. Some height evident in easier sections with many rest spots. Propulsion is not strong or efficient with effort evident.	Major errors throughout. Most angles are inaccurate and lacking definition. Low and inconsistent height throughout. Limited propulsion, lack of power and efficiency.	Major differences throughout. Struggling in all aspects. Angles are very unclear. Low height throughout. Propulsion is weak and inadequate. Lack of power.	Angles are very unclear. Very low height. Swimming skills are extremely weak not allowing for propulsion.	Lacking any precision in basic strokes. Extremely weak.

Execution of Strokes & Propulsion

18 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Near flawless, very precise. Minute differences. E.g. leg angles, water levels. Near maximum height, full extension with extreme range of flexibility.	Very minor and few but noticeable inaccuracies. E.g. leg angles, water levels, fluidity. Close to maximum height, well extended with extreme range of flexibility.	Minor inaccuracies. E.g. positions, stability, control, uniform motion. High but may lose height on difficult parts. Minor inconsistencies in extension. Large range of flexibility.	Inaccuracies evident but no major errors. Above average height but sometimes unstable. Loses height and effort evident on difficult parts. Full extension not maintained with medium range of flexibility.	Several inaccuracies evident and may have a few major errors. Lack of stability and control in difficult parts. Average height, some obvious slurring between positions and transitions, incomplete extension. Small range of flexibility.

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Many problems showing accuracy and clarity in positions. Some major errors. Minimal control with effort evident throughout. Minimal extension and often rushed and segmented.	Height is low and inconsistent with levels changing throughout. Some major problems in achieving positions. Unstable, loses control in many parts. Poor extension. Rushed throughout.	Struggling in all aspects. Low height. Very inaccurate positions and basic movements. Little control evident. Unclear and poor extension.	Difficult to recognize. All positions are poorly defined and unclear. Extension is totally lacking. Very low height throughout. Struggling to execute even basic actions.	Lacking all technical skill so movements are hardly recognizable. Struggling to perform all figures and hybrids. No clarity, extension or definition throughout. Little if any height.

Execution of Figures & Hybrids

19 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Almost flawless power and efficiency with close to maximum distance covered.	Strong and powerful but may not cover maximum distance.	Mostly strong and powerful but may miss covering some areas of the pool.	Some lack of strength and power evident. Misses covering some areas of the pool. Pauses between actions breaking fluidity.	Lacks power and efficiency. Misses covering several areas and/or limited to one side.

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Some height in easier sections. Lacks power and efficiency with evident rest spots. Does not cover the pool.	Poor flow between actions. Rest sports throughout. Movements are not finished. Does not cover the pool. Limited to one side.	Unclear, no clarity in executing transitions. Long rest sports. Minimal pool coverage.	Gaps in transitions with major rest spots. Little control over legs and arms. Very limited pool coverage.	Transitions are very poorly executed, and lack clarity. Rest spots throughout. Extremely limited pool coverage, if any.

Execution of Transitions

20 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Minute errors in pattern formations and changes.	Very minor errors in pattern accuracy in formations and changes. Spacing usually excellent.	Patterns are clear. Small minor differences in formations, changes and spacing in patterns.	Most patterns are clear. Small differences in formations, maintaining patterns, changes and spacing in patterns.	Not all patterns are clear. Differences in formation, changes and spacing in patterns. Patterns are often large with swimmers far apart.

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Patterns are generally not clear, are widely spaced and are not efficiently achieved.	Patterns are large and often unclear. One or more swimmers may be obviously out of pattern.	Patterns are unclear and widely spread.	Generally unrecognizable.	Patterns are hardly recognizable.

Execution of Patterns

21 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Throws: Near maximum height with very minimal set-up and recovery time. Very strong and powerful. Clean entries. Platforms: High, stable. Precise and accurate angles and movements.	Throws: Near maximum height. Minimal set-up and recovery time. Very strong and powerful. Mostly clean entries. Platforms: High, stable. Very few minor differences in angles and movements.	Throws are generally high, stable and convincing. Some minor differences in angles. Some noticeable set-up and recovery time required. Mostly strong and powerful. Most entries are clean. Platforms are generally high and stable.	Throws are of medium height and lack some accuracy in positions. Stability not maintained throughout. Noticeable set-up time and recovery time. Lack of strength and power. Some entries are not clean. Platforms are of medium height. No completely failed highlights.	Throws are of average height with inaccurate achievement of positions. Lack of stability, control, energy and power in moves. Long set-up and recovery time. Most entries are not clean. Platforms: Average height but not stable. May have 1 completely failed highlight.

Execution of Highlights

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Highlights are attempted but they are low and unstable. Throws are attempted but are low and lack control. 1 or more swimmers may fall. May have more than one completely failed highlight. Very long set-up and recovery time. Entries are not clean. Platforms: Low & lacking stability.	Highlights may be attempted but they are very low and/or unstable. Throws, if attempted are low and lack control. 1 or more swimmers are likely to fall. Entries lack clarity and are poorly done.	Highlights are very unstable or do not work.	Very messy and unclear. There may be no highlights or they are unrecognizable. Lack any height. Generally fail.	If present they are hardly recognizable except at the surface.

22 of 94

Judges consider the efficiency of the propulsion techniques in their Execution score.

True/ False:

23 of 94

Judging Synchronization

Page 130-131

FINA Manual

24 of 94

Overview of Synchronization

Synchronization is the precision of movements in unison, one with the other and also with the musical accompaniment, while above, at and below the surface. To synchronize is ‘to make things happen at the same time’ or ‘to be in unison.’ Because it is easy to detect a swimmer’s failure to act perfectly in unison with others, synchronization may be one of the easier categories to judge. The judge must take precautions, though, not to allow that simplicity to lead to its domination of the Execution score. In Artistic Swimming, not only should the swimmers’ movements be in unison with each other, but their actions must also be in time with the accompaniment.

25 of 94

Synchronization for Solos

For a Solo, the latter is the only form of synchronization, so it can only be more loosely defined. Actions may be coordinated with the music's rhythm, melody or accent points or they may simply represent its mood. This factor counts for only 10% of the Solo Execution award. The judge may have to rely on evaluating whether there were major deviations from the tempo or feeling of the music, or obvious failure to match actions with a musical accent or highlight.

26 of 94

Synchronization for Duets, Mixed Duets & Teams

The value of synchronization rises to 50% for Duets, Mixed Duets and Teams due to the need for, and the difficulty of, precisely coordinating the movements of two or more swimmers. Evaluating duet, mixed duet or team synchronization to the music is aided by a tendency to use music with fairly strong rhythms to simplify timing of the actions.

If the music is difficult to understand, credit must be given under Difficulty for the synchronization.

27 of 94

The judge must consider whether the synchronizing of the routine is to the rhythm, melody, accents or highlights and whether there is synchronization with the special effects in the music, which may be used for spins, rockets, boosts, stacks, lifts and throws.

a) Type of synchronization

Action should be related to the music’s tempo and whether changes of the pace of movements occur in conjunction with the tempo changes.

b) Tempo and tempo changes

Synchronized - One with the Other

Members of a team, duet or mixed duet should be perfectly synchronized from the start to finish, including movements under water. All body positions, movements and transitions should be perfectly synchronized. Swimmers should be synchronized above, at and below the surface of the water.

With the accompaniment

28 of 94

SYNCHRONIZATION	FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION – 10
The precision of movements in unison, one with the other and with the accompaniment when above, at and below the surface. Synchronization of timing of one with another and with the music.
Strokes & Propulsion	Totally synchronized with the music and each other. Absolute precision throughout. Angles perfectly matched while performing the movements.
Figures & Hybrids	Totally synchronized in all aspects. Absolute precision throughout. Angles perfectly matched while performing the movements.
Transitions	Totally synchronized in all aspects. Absolute precision throughout.
Patterns	Totally synchronized in all aspects. Absolute precision throughout.
Highlights	Totally synchronized from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry. Perfect synchronization to the music.

29 of 94

	Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
One with the other	Minute synchro errors & deviations in timing that are visible only to the ‘trained’ eye.	Very few minor synchro errors.	Minor synchro errors.	A few obvious synchro errors but most errors are minor.	Some obvious and minor synchro errors throughout.
With the accompaniment	Extremely well synchronized to music. Minute differences.	Well synchronized to the rhythm, melody & accents of music.	Very good synchronization to the rhythm, melody & accents of music.	Good but occasional lack of synchronization with the rhythm, melody & accents of music.	Basic lack of synchronization and obvious timing differences with the rhythm, melody & accents of music.

	Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
One with the other	Moderate to major synchronization errors.	Major synchronization errors.	Little synchronization.	Very little or no synchronization	No synchronization between swimmers.
With the accompaniment	Minimal attempt to synchronize with the rhythm, melody & accents of the music.	Attempts to synchronize only with the beats of the music.	Little synchronization to the music.	Very little or no synchronization with the music.	No synchronization to the music.

Overall Synchronization

30 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Near flawless. Slight variations in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions.	Very few minor synchro variations in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions.	Minor synchro variations in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions.	A few obvious errors but mostly minor errors in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions.	One or two swimmers may be ‘out’ in team. Lack of synchronization in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions.

Synchronization

of Strokes & Propulsion

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Some moderate to major errors in timing of arms, kicks and/or transitions. Major synchronization errors in timing of kicks and/or transitions so positions are very unclear.	Major synchronization errors in timing of all arms, kicks and/or transitions.	Little synchronization of timing of all arms, kicks and/or transitions.	Very little or no synchronization of all arms, kicks and/or transitions.	No synchronization of arms, kicks and/or transitions.

31 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Almost flawless.	Very few minor differences in timing at, above or below the surface. Very minimal differences in timing of starting and completing actions.	Minor differences in timing at, above or below the surface. Minor differences in timing of starting and completing actions.	Occasional differences in timing at, above or below the surface. Occasional differences in timing of starting and completing actions.	Lacks precision at, above or below the surface. One or more swimmers may be ‘out ‘in team. Differences in timing of starting and completing actions.

Synchronization

of Figures & Hybrids

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Some moderate or major timing errors in achieving all positions in figures/hybrids, in timing at, above or below the surface & in timing of starting & completing actions.	Attempts to synchronize but major errors throughout including achieving all positions in figures/hybrids, in timing at, above or below the surface & in timing of starting and completing actions.	Timing of all actions are different. There is an attempt to synchronize but seldom together.	Very little or no synchronization between the swimmers and/or to the music.	Very little if any attempt to synchronize with the music and/or each other.

32 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Almost flawless. Minute errors in timing with music.	Very few minor timing errors.	Minor timing errors.	A few obvious and some minor errors.	Timing errors evident.

Synchronization

of Transitions

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Obvious errors in timing before and after movements and there is little relationship to music.	Little relationship with the music or with each other. Swimmers may be moving in different directions.	Little synchronization between other swimmers or with the music.	Very little or no synchronization into and out of movements.	Very little if any attempt to synchronize with the music and/or each other.

33 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Minute differences into or out of transitions.	Very few minor errors in achieving timing into patterns.	Few errors in getting into and out of patterns.	Some obvious errors in synchronization to achieve pattern positions.	Transitions into and out of patterns are not clear. Lacks timing in achieving patterns.

Synchronization

of Patterns

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Pattern changes and going into and out of the pattern are not synchronized.	Patterns are unclear. Very poor attempt to synchronize transitions in and out of patterns.	Little synchronization into, within and out of patterns.	Little or no synchronization into, during or out of pattern.	Patterns are not synchronized at all.

34 of 94

Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Minute deviations in synchronization from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry.	Very few minor differences in synchronization from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry.	Minor differences in synchronization from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry.	A few obvious but mainly minor errors in timing from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry.	Obvious errors in timing from set-up to completion of all moves including the entry.

Synchronization

of Highlights

Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Poorly synchronized so they may appear very inaccurately executed. One or more swimmers are “out” in timing in team.	Movements are unsynchronized resulting in highlights generally being unsuccessful.	Lack of synchronization results in highlights, if any not being successful.	Little or no synchronization makes highlights unsuccessful.	Highlights are not attempted.

35 of 94

Judging Artistic Impression

Page 137-144

FINA Manual

36 of 94

Overview of Artistic Impression

Artistic Impression is an effect, image or feeling retained as a result of the demonstration of skill and good taste by the swimmer(s). The Artistic Impression score covers three areas: Choreography, Music Interpretation and Manner of Presentation.

Because of the subjective nature of many elements in this component, wide latitude must be allowed. What may be considered artistic to one may seem common to another. An appreciation of a variety of cultures, styles, music types and interpretations should be cultivated. Personal feelings, i.e. whether one likes the routine or not, should not sway the judges’ perception. Evaluations and scores awarded should be based on how the routine fits the judging criteria.

37 of 94

Judging Choreography

Page 137-140

FINA Manual

38 of 94

Overview of Choreography

Choreography is the creative skill of composing a routine that combines artistic and technical elements. It involves the design and weaving together of variety and creativity of movements.

Choreography is defined as the art of assembling movements so that they have meaning, style and form. Creative and technical elements are assembled to construct a composition that has continuity, structure, purpose and meaning. The routine is not just a combination of unrelated actions. It should resemble a novel rather than a collection of short stories.

It is extremely important for the judge to retain an open mind and the ability to appreciate a variety of styles, even though he or she may prefer one style over another. When evaluating the choreography, the judge must consider the following areas.

39 of 94

Variety – diversity, assortment.

The condition of being diverse.

Strokes, propulsion techniques
Figures, hybrid figures
Transitions
Speed, direction and level
Patterns and pattern changes

Choreography - continued

40 of 94

Choreography - continued

Creativity – the act of being original or imaginative.

Uniqueness
Paired and team actions
Highlights and memorable moments

Look for movements that are distinctive!

41 of 94

Choreography - continued

Pool coverage, pool pattern

Constant flowing action
Effective use of space

42 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION - 10
Choreography
The creative skill of composing a routine that combines artistic and technical elements. The design and weaving together of variety and creativity of all movements.
Extremely captivating, creative and innovative. Whole routine is memorable. Perfectly cohesive and balanced structure. Extensive variety of hybrids, strokes and highlights. Numerous and fluid creative pattern changes. All areas of pool are covered and the choreography is designed to showcase the creative movements.

43 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Choreography
Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Captivating, creative and innovative throughout. Multiple memorable moments. Cohesive & balanced structure. Wide variety of hybrids, strokes and highlights throughout the routine. Numerous and fluid creative pattern changes. All areas of pool are covered.
Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Mostly captivating, creative and innovative. Multiple memorable moments with very minor breaks preventing it from being truly special and unique. Wide variety of hybrids, strokes and highlights throughout the routine. Numerous and fluid creative pattern changes. All areas of pool are covered.
Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Strong choreography with very good range of creativity in strokes/figures and hybrids. Several memorable moments. Minor gaps in creativity. Some elements may be poorly placed or the routine may be unbalanced. Highlights demonstrated throughout most of the routine but may have a limited range and variety of techniques. Frequent pattern changes but flow may not be maintained throughout. A few areas of the pool may be missed.
Good 7.0 – 7.9	Good routine with mainly standard actions lacking some creativity and variety. Some creative sections but unbalanced with limited variety and gaps evident in strokes/figures and hybrids. Some memorable moments. Mostly standard highlights with basic actions demonstrated throughout some of the routine but are lacking in variety and uniqueness. Frequent standard pattern changes with some lack of creativity and flow. Pool coverage misses some areas.
Competent 6.0 – 6.9	Basic, predictable and ordinary choreography. Few creative moments. Some variety in strokes/figures and hybrids but generally lacking originality and creativity. Few memorable moments. Minimal highlights are scattered throughout the routine lacking creativity and variety. Limited number of predictable and repetitive basic pattern changes. Pool coverage misses several areas or limited to one side of the pool.

44 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Choreography
Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Common repetitive basic actions with limited variety of strokes, figures and hybrids. Highlights if any, lack creativity and variety. Limited repetitive pattern changes lacking flow. Pool coverage is unbalanced and limited.
Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Basic routine with very limited variety of strokes, figures and hybrids. Very limited simple basic repetitious pattern changes lacking flow. Pool coverage is very limited.
Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Limited routine with a series of basic skills and propulsive techniques. Some attempt at patterns in Team. Lacking flow between movements. No logical pattern flow or pool coverage.
Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Routine has little evidence of a plan or structure. A sequence of simple very basic moves. Patterns in Team are very weak and hard to identify. Little pool coverage.
Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9	Does not resemble a routine and has no structure. Simple basic moves scattered. Patterns in Teams, if any are hardly recognizable. Little if any pool coverage. Choreography is limited to swimmer’s abilities.

45 of 94

Judging Music Interpretation

Page 141-142

FINA Manual

46 of 94

Overview of Music Interpretation

Music Interpretation means expressing the mood of the music, making use of the music’s structure.

Use of the music should be judged with an open mind, allowing for a wide latitude of individual interpretation. The use of music refers to how the swimmer(s) use the structure of the music.

Music actually has a far greater influence because the music is the basis for all the other categories. Choreography is dependent upon it; Manner of Presentation relates to the feeling the swimmer has for the music; and all the technical categories (Execution, Synchronization and Difficulty) are affected by how the music is used. Using music effectively should be thought of as the blending of movements and music into a oneness of expression.

In the Solo event, when use and interpretation of the music are done to perfection, it will appear as if the soloist and her music are one. It is as though the music was written for her.

47 of 94

Interpretation of character, mood, feeling

Character, quality
Mood, meaning
Feeling, fervor and passion

Music Interpretation - continued

48 of 94

Use of the music’s dynamics

Tempo changes
Power and delicacy
Accents and highlights

Music Interpretation - continued

49 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION - 10
Music Interpretation
Expressing the mood of the music, use of the music’s structure.
Elements of surprise and uniqueness with use of music. Totally at one with the music. Movements used obviously require this particular music throughout. Swimmers express both obvious and subtle qualities of the music and take advantage of all the musical elements to achieve an emotional impact. Leaves a lasting impression with this piece of music.

50 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Music Interpretation
Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Near perfect use of all of the qualities within the music. Swimmers express both obvious and subtle qualities of the music. Multiple memorable moments. Strong emotional impact.
Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	The majority of parts have a strong impact on the viewer. Minor breaks in intensity and completeness of use of music and interpretation. Multiple memorable moments.
Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Movements match mood and pace. Expresses most musical qualities but may miss minor opportunities. Very good use of the obvious accents. Several memorable moments.
Good 7.0 – 7.9	Actions generally fit the music. Explores the use of both melody and rhythm. Attempts to explore the theme or mood. Some emotional appeal is lacking. Some memorable moments.
Competent 6.0 – 6.9	Most actions fit the music. Predictable use of the obvious rhythm or melody. Some attempt to project mood or theme. Few memorable moments.

51 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Music Interpretation
Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Some actions fit the music. Mechanical use of the obvious beats of the music. Repetitive, common and basic actions for easy to use accents.
Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Few actions fit the music. Uses the obvious beat of the music but mood and character are ignored.
Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Actions do not fit the music. Attempts to use the music. Only the simplest beat used. Music is mostly background.
Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	No interpretation of the music. Any music could be used.
Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9	Swimmers are swimming and music playing but there is no link.

52 of 94

Page 143-144

FINA Manual

Judging Manner of Presentation

53 of 94

Overview of Manner of Presentation

Manner of Presentation is the manner in which the swimmer or swimmers present the routine to the viewers. Manner of presentation is more than a smile. It involves the face and use of the whole body. The swimmers must demonstrate that they are in total command throughout. The impression is one of a richness of movement, with the swimmers ‘owning the water’. Total command requires a completeness of performance that demonstrates confidence, poise and effortlessness; a high energy level, both physical and emotional; and consistency of performance with the maintenance of an illusion of ease throughout. There must be responsiveness to the emotions expressed by the music and appropriate to the choreography, along with the ability to communicate with sincerity and enjoyment to viewers so that they are drawn into and feel as if they are a part of the performance.

Routines that receive top scores in this category show dynamism and strength yet are also fluid, graceful and captivating. They have an allure, an appeal to the senses, a magnetism; in short, they have charisma.

54 of 94

Completeness of performance

Use of whole body, body language
Focus of body and face
Use of varied moods

Manner of Presentation - continued

Aura of total command, confidence

Convincing presentation

The performance should seem fresh and spontaneous throughout!

55 of 94

Effortlessness throughout

Consistency of performance with continual movement

Manner of Presentation - continued

Charisma and communication

Ability to communicate with viewers
Facial expressions
Sincerity
Showmanship

56 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION - 10
Manner of Presentation
The manner in which the swimmer(s) present(s) the routine to the viewers. The total command of the performance of the routine.
Total command, compelling attention. The viewers and judges can’t take their eyes off the routine. More of an experience than just a routine. Projects personality and involves all viewers. Charismatic. Completely poised and confident. Each performance appears fresh. Total body used for expression.

57 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Manner of Presentation
Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9	Unique and special to these swimmers. Captivating with a strong emotional impact. Hard to imagine others swimming this routine.
Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Confident and appealing, but with occasional very minor breaks in projection and focus. Explores the mood/theme through expression using whole body. Emotional energy.
Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Confident and explores the mood/theme through expression using whole body. Occasional lack of focus or not exploiting every opportunity to gain attention. Emotional energy demonstrated in most parts of the routine.
Good 7.0 – 7.9	Some command but may lack physical and/or emotional energy. Focus can be ‘on’ or ‘off’. Lack of precision in all movements affects the presentation.
Competent 6.0 – 6.9	Swimmers may attempt to make eye contact and communicate with judges but this tends to be erratic and may not be present in all swimmers. Lacks physical and emotional energy.

58 of 94

ARTISTIC IMPRESSION	Manner of Presentation
Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Little effort to project and make eye contact with judges. Most focus is inward concentrating on performance of skills. Lacks physical and emotional energy.
Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	No effort to project and make eye contact with judges. Swimmers may appear scared or generally unaware of the audience.
Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Almost total inward focus. In Duets and Teams, look more at each other than at the viewers.
Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Awkward. No attempt at presentation. Totally inward focused and unaware of judges or viewers.
Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9	Attempting to swim. No awareness of judges or viewers.

59 of 94

Judging Difficulty

Page 132-136

FINA Manual

60 of 94

Overview of Difficulty

Difficulty is the quality of being hard to achieve. Judging the difficulty of a routine is a complex task requiring a high level of knowledge and experience. The knowledge and understanding of factors governing the relative difficulties of various figure transitions must be applied to the analysis of all kinds of actions in the routines, not just the figures. There are two types of Difficulty, namely, difficulty of execution and of synchronization.

61 of 94

Difficulty of Execution

Sustained airborne weight
Length of exercise
Technique proficiency, scull proficiency
Complexity, risk factors
Flexibility

Figures and hybrid figures

62 of 94

Difficulty of Execution - continued

Strokes, propulsion techniques, transitions

Sustained airborne weight
Complexity
Flexibility

63 of 94

Highlights & Acrobatic Movements

Difficulty of Execution - continued

Acrobatic movements: platforms, stacks, lifts, throws, etc.
Floats and joined actions

64 of 94

Patterns and Pattern Changes

Difficulty of Execution - continued

Establishing and maintaining a formation
Types of pattern changes
Number of pattern changes
Proximity of swimmers to each other

65 of 94

Placement of the difficulty actions

Difficulty of Execution - continued

Placement of the actions in the routine may affect the overall difficulty. Difficulty increases:

For a difficult figure when it follows another difficult figure or long underwater sequence.
When difficult figures are spaced throughout the routine.
When difficult figures are placed at the end of the routine.

66 of 94

DIFFICULTY	FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERFECTION - 10
The quality of being hard to achieve. Difficulty of all movements and of synchronization.
Strokes & Propulsion	Sustained height with maximum weight out of water, extreme flexibility, power. Complex arm angles and multiple sequences using both arms. Strong complex propulsion with maximum speed of movement.
Figures & Hybrids	Exceptional difficulty. Sustained airborne maximum height, maximum dynamic height, complex leg angles, isolation moves and combinations of actions. Difficulty throughout routine. High risk.
Transitions	Continuous complex moves with maximum power.
Patterns	Complex, intricate patterns with frequent changes. Blind pattern changes. Very close spacing. Intricate synchronization.
Highlights	Extremely complex. Minimal set-up and recovery time. Set-ups use an unstable or small base. Complex lengthy actions in the air or on the platform using off-balance and unstable moves. High risk.

67 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION			Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9 Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
General Impression			Exceptional / Superior difficulty and risk is almost continuously demonstrated and maintained in virtually all components and throughout the routine.	Challenging difficulty and risk is demonstrated and maintained in many components throughout much of the routine.	Moderate difficulty and risk is demonstrated in some components but not maintained throughout the routine.	Some difficulty and risk is demonstrated in some components but not maintained throughout the routine.
Figures and Hybrids	Sustained airborne weight	Airborne weight	Multiple moves using double legs. Near maximum airborne weight in both stable and unstable actions.	Several moves using double legs. High and moderate airborne weight.	Moves using either double legs or one, mostly one.	Moves mostly using one leg and vertical join.
	Sustained airborne weight	Length of exercise	Several very long.	Multiple middle-length and long.	Several middle-length and a few long with one leg.	A few middle-length.
	Technique proficiency	Support, rotate, acceleration, travelling, maintain dynamic height, off-balance, isolated	E.g. twist spin, combined spin, twirl spin, many rotations of spins, thrust hybrids, travelling, off-balanced, isolated.		E.g. spins, opening/closing.	E.g. joined, simple rotation/spin.
	Complexity, risk factors, speed	Variation in body positions, angles, directions, water levels and speed.	Multiple angles and large variation of body positions in a hybrid; multiple hybrid sequences with large variation of pattern changes, including blind pattern changes; multiple sequences of complex and high-risk hybrids, extremely fast.	Some angles in a hybrid; some hybrid sequences with blind pattern changes; multiple complex hybrid sequences; high-risk hybrids, very fast.	Few angles in a hybrid; minimal changes of body positions; linear and simpler movements; less complex, simple blind hybrids, fast – moderate.	Minimal changes of body positions, mostly linear and in simpler sequences, moderate – slow.
	Flexibility	Range of motion	Extremely large	Large	Moderate	Small

68 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION			Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
General Impression			Difficulty is demonstrated in a few components of the routine.	Difficulty is rarely demonstrated in any of the components of the routine.	Difficulty is lacking in much of the routine	No difficult components in most of the routine.	No difficult components in the routine.
Figures and Hybrids	Sustained airborne weight	Airborne weight	Figures are short and lack power, complexity and airborne weight. Risk in only a few actions.	Limited number of short figures with limited complexity and airborne weight. Little risk in all actions.	Very limited number of short figures with very limited complexity and airborne weight.	Most figures are on the surface with no airborne weight and little kinesthetic awareness. No risk.	Very limited figures requiring no kinesthetic awareness. No risk.
		Length of exercise
	Technique proficiency	Support, rotate, acceleration, travelling, maintain dynamic height, off-balance, isolated
	Complexity, risk factors, speed	Variation in body positions, angles, directions, water levels and speed.
	Flexibility	Range of motion

69 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION	Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9 Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9

Strokes and propulsion	Sustained airborne weight		Airborne weight + length of exercise + travelling	Multiple sequences with both arms.	Some sequences with both arms.	Many with one arm or only the head, and some with both arms.	Mostly with one arm or only head, and some with both arms.
	Complexity, flexibility		Variations in body positions, angles, directions, water levels. Range of motion.	Very complex. Extremely large range of motion.	Somewhat complex. Large range of motion.	Moderate complex. Middle-level range of motion.	Moderate to simple complex. Small range of motion.
Highlights and acrobatics (in Teams and Duets)	Complexity, risk factors	Overall	Sequence, variations, travelling, length of exercise.	Very high risk. Very complex. Exceptional / superior airborne weight and complexity of highlights throughout most of the routine.	High risk. Some complexity. More highlights are from a stable base rather than from an unstable base.	Middle-level risk. Highlights have moderate airborne weight.	Some risk. Average risk, actions are not complex, most are from a stable base.
		Top	Variations in position and axis of rotation in the air, number of rotations, off-balance, airborne weight, length of exercise, flexibility.
		Base	Supporting area, travelling, unstable.

70 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION	Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9

Strokes and propulsion	Sustained airborne weight		Airborne weight + length of exercise + travelling.	Simple and basic. Risk in only a few actions.	Very simple and basic. Little risk in all actions.	Very simple and very basic.	Simple. No risk.	Very limited strokes requiring no kinesthetic awareness. No risk.
	Complexity, flexibility		Variations in body positions, angles, directions, water levels. Range of motion.
Highlights and acrobatics (in Teams and Duets)	Complexity,risk factors	Overall	Sequence, variations, travelling, length of exercise.	Few highlights with little risk or airborne weight.	Very few highlights with no risk or airborne weight.	Minimal risk in any highlight and no airborne weight.	No risk.	No attempt. No risk.
		Top	Variations in position and axis of rotation in the air, number of rotations, off-balance, airborne weight, length of exercise, flexibility
		Base	Supporting area, travelling, unstable.

71 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION	Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9 Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9

Patterns and pattern changes (mainly in Teams)	Establishing and maintaining a formation		Straight line, circle, curve.	Constantly changing positions with some risk in achieving and maintaining patterns. Multiple mid-level variation of blind changes; large surface changes; many pattern changes.	Moderate complexity & number of patterns with moderate risk in achieving and maintaining patterns. A few simple, small blind changes; lesser number of changes, mostly underwater.	Mostly box or two lines. Average complexity and number of patterns with average risk in achieving and maintaining some patterns. Mostly underwater changes, simple surface changes.
	Type of pattern changes	Blind pattern changes / Surface pattern changes / Underwater pattern changes	Multiple large variation of blind changes; large surface changes; all swimmers move and change; many pattern changes.
	Proximity of swimmers		Very close, small.	Close, small.	Moderate. Comfortable space between swimmers.	Slightly far, wide.
Placement of the difficulty actions			Well-balanced throughout the routine. Most difficult actions are placed throughout the routine.	Many complex and intricate movements in first 2/3 of the routine.	Many of the more difficult actions are in the first ½ of the routine.	Most difficult actions are in the first ½ of the routine.

72 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF EXECUTION	Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9

Patterns and pattern changes (mainly in Teams)	Establishing and maintaining a formation		Limited number of patterns that have visual checks to achieve.	Simple, limited basic patterns with visual checks.	Very limited number of patterns and changes.	Almost no pattern changes.	No pattern changes.
	Type of pattern changes	Blind pattern changes / Surface pattern changes / Underwater pattern changes
	Proximity of swimmers		Far, wide.	Very far, wide	No adjusting with the others.	Almost ignores the others.	Ignores the others.
Placement of the difficulty actions			Most actions with any difficulty are generally in the first 2/3 of the routine.	Most actions with any difficulty are generally in the first 1/2 of the routine.	Actions with any difficulty are generally in the first 1/3 of the routine.	Most actions are in the first length.	Beyond the beginning actions there is so little content in the routine that there is no difficulty demonstrated.

73 of 94

Difficulty of Synchronization

Synchronization of movements: numbers of swimmers

Synchronization with music: type of music

Difficulty comes from both the movements chosen and how they are synchronized to the music.

74 of 94

Judges must be cautioned not to allow the Execution score to

influence their scores for Difficulty. Each must be considered separately.

Difficulty of Synchronization - continued

75 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF SYNCHRONIZATION	Near Perfect 9.5 – 9.9 Excellent 9.0 – 9.4	Very Good 8.0 – 8.9	Good 7.0 – 7.9	Competent 6.0 – 6.9
Synchronization of movements (in Teams) Synchronization with music Number of swimmers, speed & complexity of moves. Variation in tempo and pace.	Difficult parts with all swimmers. Exceptional / superior speed, risk and complexity of actions throughout the routine. Very complex, large variations of tempo. Use of uncountable rhythm.	Some difficult parts with all swimmers. Speed and complexity in many parts of the routine. Complex, use of large to mid variations of tempo.	Many difficult parts with fewer swimmers (divided into groups). Speed, complexity and intricacy of movements are variable and not maintained throughout the routine. Moderate, complex and mid-level variations of tempo.	Difficult parts with fewer swimmers (divided into groups). Speed and complexity is average and many actions are not intricate. Simple, small variations of tempo. Countable rhythm.

Difficulty of Synchronization

76 of 94

DIFFICULTY OF SYNCHRONIZATION	Satisfactory 5.0 – 5.9	Deficient 4.0 – 4.9	Weak 3.0 – 3.9	Very Weak 2.0 – 2.9	Hardly Recognizable 0.1 – 1.9
Synchronization of movements (in Teams) Synchronization with music Number of swimmers, speed & complexity of moves. Variation in tempo and pace.	Many movements are not complex therefore lack difficulty to achieve. Simple and basic tempo with small variation.	Most movements are simple and not complex therefore lack difficulty. Very simple and basic tempo with small variation.	Most movements are very simple, slow and not complex therefore not difficult to achieve. Very simple and basic tempo with small variation.	Most movements are extremely simple to synchronize. Very simple and basic tempo without variation.	All movements are extremely simple to synchronize. Very simple and basic tempo without variation.

Difficulty of Synchronization

77 of 94

Acrobatic Movement Clarification

Free Teams have a maximum of 6 Acrobatic Movements.

This does not include partner (2 swimmer) lifts.

Acrobatic Movement: A general term for jumps, throws, lifts, stacks, platforms, etc., which are performed as spectacular gymnastic feats and/or risky actions, and are mostly achieved with assistance from other swimmer(s).

According to AS 4.3, the acrobatic movement ends with complete submersion of all participants, including the one(s) being pushed.

For multiple acrobatic movements: When submersion occurs between two acrobatic movements, it will be considered as two lifts. When two acrobatic movements happen simultaneously, it will be considered as one lift.

Clarification: Any acrobatic movement that does not submerge completely (arms, or bust or legs of one swimmer remain at the surface) is not counted as an acrobatic movement. If it is followed by a second acrobatic movement where all swimmers submerge, this is counted as 1 acrobatic movement.

Penalty: In Team Free Routines, if the number of acrobatic movements exceeds the maximum allowance, a two point penalty shall be deducted from the routine score. Regardless of the number of additional acrobatic movements, the maximum penalty would be two points. (AS 18.3.8)

78 of 94

FINA HEIGHT SCALE

Page 44-46

FINA Manual

79 of 94

STABLE Ht.

Eggbeater kick,

Double Arm

3.5

4.5

5.5

6.5

7.5

8.5

9.5

3.5

4.5

5.5

6.5

7.5

8.5

9.5

3.5

4.5

5.5

6.5

7.5

8.5

9.5

3.5

4.5

5.5

6.5

7.5

8.5

9.5

DYNAMIC Ht.

Boost, head up

STABLE Ht.

Double Leg Vertical

DYNAMIC Ht.

Thrust, Double leg

Guiding Scale for Height

Thigh

Crotch to knee

ankle

80 of 94

Water Levels For:	Excellent/ Near Perfect	Very Good	Good	Competent	Satisfactory	Deficient	Weak
STABLE HEIGHT	9.5	8.5	7.5	6.5	5.5	4.5	3.5
Vertical Double Leg	Upper thigh	Upper mid-thigh	Low to mid-thigh	Above kneecap	Kneecap	Below kneecap	Well below kneecap (mid-shin)
Vertical Bent Knee	Showing hips	Crotch level	Upper thigh	Mid-thigh	Low thigh (Well above kneecap)	Kneecap	Below kneecap
Fishtail	Back of horizontal leg dry	Crotch level	Upper thigh	Mid-thigh	Low thigh (Well above kneecap)	Kneecap	Below kneecap

81 of 94

Water Levels For:	Excellent/ Near Perfect	Very Good	Good	Competent	Satisfactory	Deficient	Weak

Ballet Leg Single	At top of thigh	Upper thigh	Mid- thigh	Low thigh (Well above the kneecap)	Above kneecap	Kneecap	Below kneecap
Ballet Leg Double	Mid-thigh	Low thigh	Above knee cap	Kneecap	Below kneecap	Well below knee cap (mid-shin)	Low to mid-shin
Eggbeater Kick – Double Arm	Mid-bust	Armpit dry	Upper bust	Showing collar bone	Showing shoulder	Mid-neck	Chin
Eggbeater Kick – Single Arm	Bust above surface	Mid-bust	Armpit dry	Upper bust	Showing collarbone	Showing shoulder	Mid-neck

STABLE HEIGHT	9.5	8.5	7.5	6.5	5.5	4.5	3.5

82 of 94

Water Levels For:	Excellent/ Near Perfect	Very Good	Good	Competent	Satisfactory	Deficient	Weak
DYNAMIC HEIGHT	9.5	8.5	7.5	6.5	5.5	4.5	3.5
Thrust, Double Leg	Lower ribs or higher	Waist	Top of pelvis	Showing crotch	Upper thigh	Mid-thigh	Above kneecap
Thrust, Single Leg	Mid-ribs	Lower ribs	Waist	Top of pelvis	Showing crotch	Upper thigh	Mid-thigh
Rocket Split, Airborne Split	Lower ribs or higher	Waist	Top of pelvis	Showing crotch	Upper thigh	Mid-thigh	Above kneecap
Boost (head up)	Crotch level or higher	Mid-pelvis	Top of pelvis	Waist	Lower ribs	Armpit	Showing shoulder