What is lifesaving sport?
Lifesaving sport is a complete aquatic discipline combining swimming performance, rescue techniques and first-aid reflexes. Made famous by the television series «Baywatch», it is in reality remarkably varied: its disciplines all focus on rescuing a drowning person, in the pool and in open water alike. It stands apart for its unique blend of humanitarian ideal — acting swiftly to save a life — and high-level athletic challenge. An accessible sport for all ages, it brings together thousands of athletes across Switzerland, from youth to international élites.
Origins & history
Lifesaving sport was born in Australia — the first competitive lifesaver gatherings were held at Bondi Beach in 1906. World championships have been organised since the 1950s. The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) was formed in 1994 through the merger of World Life Saving and the International Life Saving Federation (FIS, founded 1910), and has held World Championships every two years since. In Switzerland, the Swiss Life Saving Federation (SSS/SLRG) oversees local sections, trains coaches via Jeunesse+Sport (J+S), selects elite and youth national squads, and represents Switzerland internationally.
Team spirit & values
The SSS/SLRG describes this sport as “synonymous with team spirit and technique — a unique combination”. The union of humanitarian principles — help and rescue — with the drive of competitive sport attracts new practitioners every year. In Switzerland, local sections welcome adults and youth alike, developing athletes able to compete in both environments. The philosophy: train to be ready for the decisive moment.
Pool events
Pool disciplines test speed, precision and technical sequencing. Core events include the Manikin Carry, Manikin Tow with Fins, Obstacle Swim, 200m Super Lifesaver and Line Throw. The pool is the ideal setting to learn the fundamentals in a controlled environment — fins technique, breath-hold precision, rescue grips, pacing — and develop towards competition level.
Open water
In open water (lake, river, beach or surf), lifesaving sport takes place in direct contact with the natural environment. The Surf Race, Beach Flags, Board Race, Surf Ski and Oceanman/Oceanwoman — combining swimming, board, ski and sprint — blend endurance, reading conditions, navigation and strategy. Variable conditions (waves, currents, temperature) demand constant adaptability. These events are the natural complement to pool disciplines.
SERC — Simulated emergency
The SERC (Simulated Emergency Response Competition) is a unique event: a team of four lifesavers faces an unknown aquatic emergency that they must resolve within two minutes using judgment, knowledge and technical skills. This discipline highlights the very real-world dimension of the sport: the ability to act effectively when it matters most.
