Comparing Russian artistic swimming practices with a global model for integrated development of mass and high-performance sport

Abstract

This study evaluates the current development of artistic swimming in Russia against an ideal model for highperformance sport integrated with broad public participation. A questionnaire was designed to assess the following components of this model: talent development; advanced support for athletes; training centers; competitions; intellectual services; partnerships with supporting organizations; and balanced integrated funding and organizational structures for mass and elite sport. To determine the areas for improvement, 101 coaches of Russian Artistic Swimming Federation completed the questionnaire. Results suggest possible approaches for further development at macro level (e.g., new partnerships and incentives for greater support of mass and elite artistic swimming), meso level (e.g., additional sources and models for better coach education and facilities), and micro level (e.g., advanced lifelong artistic swimming guidelines for mass participation). The results of the study reflect the effective current policy for integrated development of mass and high performance sport of Russian Artistic Swimming Federation as one of the successful elite sports in the world practice.