Lifesaving Sport

Lifesaving sport is unique because it is the only sport in which the skills are first learnt for humanitarian purposes and only then applied to the competition. The RLSS(I) is the India governing body for competitive lifesaving - a sport recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

Lifesaving competitions consist of a variety of competitions to further develop and demonstrate lifesaving skills, fitness and motivation. The competition requires one to use lifesaving equipment such as Rescue Boards, Rescue Tubes and Manikins in the appropriate method of effecting a rescue. This requires advanced swimming skills together with the skill of swimming under obstacles, picking up the Manikin from under water and towing it to safety.

Lifesaving sport is a highly demanding multi-discipline sport with events taking place in two main arenas, the pool -Stillwater Lifesaving, and the beach and ocean -Surf Lifesaving. The ocean events are spectacular and fun to watch. The race and results are often as unpredictable as the currents and waves. They require the athletes to have experience, endurance and tactics.

The RLSS(I) has held the 'Rescue India' National Championships every year since 2004.