The key feature of competitive swimming is speed, as athletes race against each other to complete predetermined distances in the water. Competitors use various strokes, such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly, focusing on technique and efficiency. Races are often categorized by distance and style, taking place in pools or open water. Swimmers aim to achieve personal bests and break records. Training for competitive swimming includes not just physical conditioning but also focuses on stroke mechanics, starts, and flip turns to enhance performance.