Rhythmic Gymnastics: Apparatus, History, and Governing Bodies
Rhythmic Gymnastics Apparatus
Hoop
Material: Wood or rigid plastic
Diameter: 80-90 cm (inside)
Weight: At least 300 grams
Shape: Smooth or rough, may be partially or fully wrapped with colored tape
Implementation: The gymnast moves inside the hoop, requiring coordination and frequent changes of motion.
Movements: Launching, moving, ferries.
Corporal Groups Required: Jumping, balance, flexibility, turns, and waves.
Ball
Material: Rubber or plastic
Diameter: 18-20 cm
Weight: At least 400 g
Note: Figurative drawings are not allowed; only geometric designs are accepted.
Implementation: Gripping is not allowed. Movements should be in harmony with the body. The ball should always be in motion (rolling, turning, etc.).
Movements: Rebounds, turns, figure-8 shapes, releases, receptions (with arms, legs, etc.), directed and undirected throws, gigantic throws, retentions, landslides.
Corporal Groups Required: Flexibility and waves.
Clubs
Material: Plastic or rubber
Length: 40-50 cm
Weight: At least 150 grams per club
Head Diameter: Maximum 3 cm
Shape: Bottle-like (body, neck, head). May be wrapped with tape, maintaining the head diameter.
Execution: Used for winches, turns, throws, and asymmetric figures. Avoid hitting with force. Requires rhythm, coordination, and precision.
Movements: Throws (with one or two clubs), winches, shocks, retentions, slippage.
Corporal Groups Required: Balances.
Ribbon
Material: Satin or non-starched material
Width: 4-6 cm
Length: At least 6 m (one piece); the end attached to the stick can be folded, up to 1 m
Weight: At least 35 g (without stick or attachment)
Execution: Used to create designs and shapes in the air with various rhythms and sizes.
Movements: Spirals, zigzags, gigantic throws.
Corporal Groups Required: Turns.
History of Rhythmic Gymnastics
Rhythmic gymnastics originated in the former USSR, gaining popularity alongside increased female participation in social and professional fields. Initially known as modern gymnastics, it evolved from classical choreography and dance. Early performances took place in concert halls, sometimes combining apparatus like the hoop and ball.
The first World Championship was held in 1963, and rhythmic gymnastics became an Olympic sport in 1984.
Origins and Development
Centuries ago, group gymnastics involved choreographed dances performed to music. These evolved into the competitive sport we know today.
First World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship: 1963, Budapest (won by Ludmila Savinkov)
1975: Formation of the Technical Committee of Rhythmic Gymnastics to standardize rules and judging criteria.
Governing Bodies
- International Olympic Committee (IOC): Coordinates the Olympic movement.
- International Gymnastics Federation (FIG): Governs the rules of competitive gymnastics.
- Latin American Gymnastics Confederation: Organizes competitions for countries in Europe and the Americas.
- Pan American Gymnastics Union: Regulates and promotes gymnastics in the Americas.
- South American Gymnastics Confederation: Promotes the sport, focusing on youth development.
- Chilean Olympic Committee: Composed of national sports federations.
- National Gymnastics Federations: Promote and regulate gymnastics at the national level (e.g., FECHIGI in Chile).
Gymnastics Schools
French School: Natural System
Developed by Francisco de Amorós y Ondeano. Emphasized natural, utilitarian exercises engaging the whole body. Aimed to prepare individuals for adult life and refine natural movements.
Swedish School: Analytical System
Created by Pier Henrich Ling. Focused on anatomical, biological, and corrective gymnastics. Emphasized analytical exercises targeting specific joints. Characterized by artificial, structured movements, statism, and commands.
Exercises were classified into:
- Introductory
- Basic (arms, legs, trunk)
- Fundamental (jumping, climbing, skills)