Finswimming is one of the most exciting water sport ever. Finswimming is a sport belonging to the aquatic specialties which, using specific equipment (monofin, fins, snorkel or cylinders) allows the athlete to reach much higher speeds than swimming. There are indoor (swimming pools) and open water (sea, lake, rivers) championships.

To which federation belongs Finswimming?

The international federation to which fin swimming belongs is CMAS, the Confédération Mondial des Activités Subaquatiques, which is part of the ARISF, and is a discipline recognized by the IOC.

Is there an age limit to join Finswimming?

Finswimming is suitable for any age . In fact, there are competitions for very young people, for children and adults and for veterans, over 25 years old.

How can I find a Finswimming club?

You can find Finswimming clubs easily, just looking on the internet.

How can i stay updated with Finswimming News?

Finswimmer Magazine is the most comprehensive web site about Finswimming in which you can find events, updates and everything about Finswimming.

Berlin Set to Host the 2026 Open Berlin Finswimming Championships and Masters Championships - Finswimmer Magazine

On Sunday, 1 March 2026, the German finswimming calendar will continue with one of its most established regional events: the Open Berlin Finswimming Championships and the Open Berlin Masters Championships. The competition will take place at the Schwimmhalle Helene-Weigel-Platz “Helmut Behrendt” in the Berlin district of Marzahn-Hellersdorf.

Organization and Venue

Location: Schwimmhalle am Helene-Weigel-Platz „Helmut Behrendt“, 9, Helene-Weigel-Platz, Springpfuhl, Marzahn, Marzahn-Hellersdorf, Berlino, 12681, Germania

The championships are organized by the Landestauchsportverband Berlin e.V., with the Tauchsportclub Marzahn e.V.serving as the local host. Athletes will compete in a modern 50-metre pool with eight lanes, wave-breaking lane ropes, a water depth of 2.00 metres, and a constant water temperature of 27°C. Electronic timing will be used throughout the event, ensuring reliable and accurate results in accordance with VDST regulations .

Competition Programme

The event will begin at 09:30 following warm-up and official meetings, with a full-day programme featuring a broad selection of finswimming disciplines. The schedule includes sprint, middle-distance, and long-distance races, as well as relay events, offering competitive opportunities for youth, senior, and Masters athletes.

Key events include 400 m Surface (FS) races to open the competition, 50 m Apnoea (AP), 100 m and 200 m Immersion (ST), Bi-Fins (BF) sprint events, and endurance challenges such as the 800 m FS and 1500 m FS. Multiple relay formats—women’s, men’s, mixed, and surface-bi-fins relays—add a strong team component to the championships .

Due to time constraints, certain long-distance events are limited in the number of heats, with priority given to Berlin-based clubs. These organizational measures ensure a smooth and efficient competition flow while maintaining a high sporting standard.

Participation and Eligibility

The championships are open to athletes from VDST-affiliated clubs with valid start rights, as well as international competitors registered with CMAS-recognized clubs. Berlin athletes are eligible for both the open classification and the official Berlin Championship titles, while non-Berlin competitors are ranked exclusively in the open categories.

All participants must comply with the current VDST competition rules and national anti-doping regulations. A valid sports medical examination, not older than one year, is mandatory for participation. Technical inspections of equipment, including diving tanks where applicable, will be conducted prior to competition .

Classifications and Awards

Results will be evaluated separately for the Open Berlin Championships and the Berlin Championships, across clearly defined age groups from youth categories to Masters. In the Berlin Championship classifications, medals and certificates will be awarded to the top three athletes, with certificates also issued to fourth through sixth place. Equivalent award structures apply to Masters competitions and relay events, recognizing both individual and team performances .

Entries and Event Management

Entries must be submitted electronically via LENEX files, with a closing date of Sunday, 22 February 2026. Entry fees include a base club fee, as well as per-start fees for individual and relay events. Confirmed start lists, results, and competition information will be communicated digitally to ensure transparency and efficient event management.

Due to venue capacity limitations, spectator access will be restricted, with defined quotas for team officials and support staff. Athletes and officials will be supported throughout the day with on-site catering and logistical assistance provided by the organizing committee.

An Important Fixture in the German Finswimming Calendar

As a combined open and regional championship, the 2026 Open Berlin Finswimming Championships represent an important competitive benchmark early in the season. With a demanding programme, a strong Masters presence, and participation from clubs across Germany and beyond, the event is expected to deliver high-level performances and confirm Berlin’s role as a key hub for finswimming development.

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