Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport which combines dance and gymnastics with the use of balls, hoops, ribbons, ropes, and clubs. The name of the sport was changed in the 1990s from "rhythmic sportive gymnastics" (RSG) to "rhythmic gymnastics" (RG).

Although some critics put rhythmic in the same category as synchronized swimming (too balletic, too "dancey," not enough power & athleticism, whatever) many would change their minds after watching high-level rhythmic gymnastics... 210 degree split leaps, throwing a hoop forty feet in the air while completing two front walkovers and a forward roll before the hoop comes back down, quadruple pirouettes, illusion turns while tossing the clubs...watching just one Olympic rhythmic gymnastic routine makes most people scratch their heads, wondering how on earth the gymnasts do that. It is one of the most popular sports in Europe, especially in countries such as Bulgaria, Russia, Ukraine, Greece, and Germany. Rhythmic has been slowly catching on in the United States, usually overshadowed by its sister discipline, Artistic gymnastics. Yet as there are over 60,000 female artistic gymnasts in the USA and only about 2,000 rhythmic gymnasts (USA Gymnastics, 2003) the rhythmic gymnast is participating in a truly unique sport...and will stand out much more quickly!

                                        How did it start?

There seems to be many theories about the origins of rhythmic gymnastics, but one such theory is that it began in Scandinavia during the 19th century when two schools of gymnastics went their separate ways, thus resulting in this sport. Others believe that rhythmic began in the former Soviet Union as a hybrid of gymnastics, dance, and calisthenics. Another widely accepted belief is that rhythmic was actually inspired by American dancer Isadora Duncan, who was famous for dancing around stage with scarves. Originally developed to provide an overall physical fitness program for girls and women of all ages, RG mostly evolved during the 1950's in Europe, particularly in the Soviet Union. The sport was first recognized by the FIG (international gymnastics sport governing body) in 1962, and the first World Championships were held in 1963 in Budapest, Hungary.

What happens in a routine?

Gymnasts perform on a carpet to music either individually or in a group of five. In competition, gymnasts perform leaps, pivots, balances, and other elements to demonstrate flexibility and coordination. The apparatus is fully integrated in the routine, and specific moves are performed with each apparatus. Individual routines last from 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds, while group routines last from 2 minutes 15 seconds to 2 minutes 30 seconds.

The most noticeable difference between rhythmic and artistic gymnastics is that acrobatic flight skills are not allowed (no handsprings, flips, layouts etc.)  However, pre-acrobatic elements such as forward and backward shoulder rolls, cartwheels, handstands, tic-tocs, side aerials, butterflies, and walkovers are allowed. Although artistic and rhythmic have similiar origins, they are completely different sports!  Artistic gymnastics (the balance beam, uneven bars, vault, and floor exercise) involves extreme strength, in order to do risky tumbling. Rhythmic gymnastics is more about perfecting the elegance of the body to make a routine seem effortless. Balance, ballet skills, flexibility, rhythm, quick reflexes, and coordination is essential to do this sport. Of course, anyone can learn these skills. With practice, any person can become more flexible and coordinated.

No gymnastic or dance experience is required; just come give rhythmic gymnastics a try! Anybody can learn this sport and have a great time doing so. This sport can be taken as far as each person wants it to. Some girls may want to compete; others might just want to do it recreationally and have no pressure. Either way, every participant will have a great time learning and making new friends.   :)

One of the best aspects of rhythmic gymnastics is that a gymnast can have a long, full career. This sport is easier on the body than artistic, trampoline, and tumbling, with fewer injuries. Why? Because of the lack of tumbling, there is no excess pounding to take its toll on the body. Since injuries are usually minor (sprains, strains, pulled muscles, etc.) a rhythmic gymnast's career (and her body) can last much longer in the sport. Most rhythmic gymnasts competing at the Olympics are in their early twenties. In fact, in Bulgaria and other Eastern European countries, rhythmic is a collegiate sport--right up there with basketball, track, and artistic gymnastics.

                          So...you want to compete?

Competitions are fun and exciting, and a gymnast will see her hard work paying off in her performance. We will not be competing under USA Gymnastics, but under the USAIGC (United States Association of Independent Gymnastic Clubs.)  The USAIGC has a competitive program that is designed to encourage self-esteem, not diminish it. Their competitions are friendly and encourage creativity and expression. Each gymnast uses skills that suit her strengths and weaknesses, rather than conforming to what the best gymnast in the room is capable of. A girl can compete individually or in a group.