Information Apparatus Gymnasts Myself Awards Acknowledgements

Rhythmic Gymnastics involves five hand apparatus: the rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. Each apparatus has specific qualities and movements that are fundamental to each performance. For example, the rope involves many skipping movements while the ribbon's main focus is making patterns such as spirals, circles and serpents. Each apparatus has it's own requirements which must be performed along with the fundamental body movements (leaps, pivots, balances and flexibilities). It is no use having superior apparatus handling work unless these body basics are first mastered and performed in conjunction with the apparatus. A trick with the apparatus will only have value if it is performed with a recognised body movement. The most basic learner of rhythmic gymnastics will not use all apparatus immediately - the emphasis at the lower levels is more on body preparation. Rope, hoop and ball are the first apparatus usually learnt. Basic movements such as skipping and throwing are practiced. Many children play with these at school, but the technique used in the playground is not suitable for the sport. Ribbon is usually the next apparatus to be learnt. The younger girls will begin by using shorter ribbons, and will only use the ribbons at their full length when they have learned how to pattern the ribbons with good technique. Clubs is usually the last to be learned as this involves the most coordination and is potentially the most dangerous. Home | News & Events | Information | Multimedia Glossary | Training | Guestbook | Links Disclaimer (please read)