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Rhythmic gymnastics

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Rhythmic gymnastics
Rhythmic gymnastics Group 10 clubs final, 27th Summer Universiade 2013, Kazan
Highestgoverning bodyFédération Internationale de Gymnastique
Characteristics
ContactNo
Mixed-sexNo
TypeGymnastic sport that involves artistic movement
Presence
Country or regionWorldwide
OlympicSince1984
World Games2001–2021[1]

Rhythmic gymnasticsis a sport in which gymnasts perform on a floor with an apparatus:hoop,ball,clubs,ribbonandrope.[2][3]The sport combines elements ofgymnastics,danceandcalisthenics;gymnasts must be strong, flexible, agile, dexterous and coordinated.[2]Rhythmic gymnastics is governed by theInternational Gymnastics Federation(FiG), which first recognized it as a sport in 1963.[2]It became an Olympic sport in 1984, with an individual all-around event.[2][3]The group all-around competition was added to the Olympics in 1996.[2][3]At the international level, rhythmic gymnastics is a women-only sport. The most prestigious competitions, besides the Olympic Games, are the World Championships, World Games, European Championships, European Games, the World Cup Series and the Grand Prix Series. Gymnasts are judged on their artistry, execution of skills, and difficulty of skills, for which they gain points. They perform leaps, balances, and rotations along with handling the apparatus.[3]

History

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Two-time Olympic ChampionEvgenia Kanaeva(2008 Beijingand2012 London)

Rhythmic gymnastics grew out of the ideas ofJean-Georges Noverre(1727–1810),François Delsarte(1811–1871), andRudolf Bode(1881–1970), who all believed in movement expression, where one used to dance to express oneself and exercise various body parts.Peter Henry Lingfurther developed this idea in his 19th-centurySwedishsystem of free exercise, which promoted "aesthetic gymnastics", in which students expressed their feelings and emotions through body movement. This idea was extended byCatharine Beecher,who founded the Western Female Institute inCincinnati,Ohio,United States, in 1837. In Beecher's gymnastics program, called "dance without dancing", the young women exercised to music, moving from simple calisthenics to more strenuous activities. In 1885,Genevieve Stebbinspublished her first book,The Delsarte System of Expression.[4]She went on to develop "harmonic gymnastics", which enabled late nineteenth-century American women to engage in physical culture and expression, especially in dance. Stebbins provided the means, rationale, and model for what could be accepted as the appropriate practices for middle and upper-class women.

During the 1880s,Émile Jaques-Dalcrozeof Switzerland developedeurhythmics,a form of physical training for musicians and dancers.[5]George Demenyof France created exercises to music that were designed to promote grace of movement, muscular flexibility, and good posture. These styles were combined around 1900 into the Swedish school of rhythmic gymnastics, which would later add dance elements fromFinland.Around this time, Ernst Idla ofEstoniaestablished adegree of difficultyfor each movement. In 1929, Hinrich Medau founded The Medau School in Berlin to train gymnasts in "modern gymnastics" and develop the apparatus's use.

Competitive rhythmic gymnastics began in the 1940s in theSoviet Union.The FIG formally recognized this discipline in 1961, first asmodern gymnastics,then asrhythmic sportive gymnastics,and finally asrhythmic gymnastics.The first World Championships for individual rhythmic gymnasts was held in 1963 inBudapest.Groups were introduced at the same level in 1967 inCopenhagen,Denmark. Rhythmic gymnastics was added to the1984 Summer OlympicsinLos Angeles,with the individual all-around competition. However, many federations from theEastern Blocand countries were forced toboycottby the Soviet Union, in a way similar to the boycott forced on many nations by the United States of the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics. CanadianLori Fungwas the first rhythmic gymnast to earn an Olympic gold medal. The group competition was added to the1996 Summer Olympicsin Atlanta. The Spanish team won the first gold medal of the new competition with a team formed byEstela Giménez,Marta Baldó,Nuria Cabanillas,Lorena Guréndez,Estíbaliz MartínezandTania Lamarca.

The gymnast

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(L–R)Alina Kabaeva(bronze),Yulia Barsukova(gold) andYulia Raskina(silver) at2000 Sydney Olympics
Rhythmic gymnastic toe shoes

Olympic rhythmic gymnastics is typically restricted to female participants, although Japan has begun developing programs in which men can compete. In France, men are allowed to participate in women's competitions. In Spain, there is a national rhythmic gymnastics championships for men. The men's program has yet to be formally recognized by the FIG, however, and men cannot compete in the Olympic Games as a rhythmic gymnast. Gymnasts start at a young age and become age-eligible to compete in the Olympic Games and other major international competitions on January 1 of their 16th year (For example, a gymnast born on 31-12-2008 would be age eligible for the 2024 Olympics). Gymnasts in Russia and Europe typically start training at a very young age and those at their peak are typically in their late teens (15–19) or early twenties, but since 2004[citation needed]it is common to see gymnasts achieving their peak after reaching their twenties.

Sculpture ofAna Bautistaby Fernando Garcíarramos in San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Top rhythmic gymnasts must have good balance, flexibility, coordination, and strength, and must possess psychological attributes such as the ability to compete under intense pressure, in which one mistake can cost them the title, and the discipline and work ethic to practice the same skills over and over again.

Currently a gymnast can perform in the individual event or in the group event. They perform routines in 12 x 12 meter areas, accompanied by music (recorded or played by musician(s)). Since 1995, groups consist of five gymnasts, but originally six gymnasts composed a group, although around the 1980s eight gymnasts were permitted. The duration of a group exercise should be two and a half minutes, one minute more than the individual one, which is one minute and a half.

In competitions, female participants typically wear leotards and rhythmic gymnastic toe shoes.

Apparatus

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The FIG selects which apparatus will be used in competitions, only four out of the five possible apparatuses are sanctioned. Hoop and rope were the first apparatus used at World Championships, followed later by ball, ribbon and clubs. For 2011,ropewas dropped for senior national individual and group competition. In 2011, it was to be dropped for junior national individual competition but returned again in 2015. Rope appeared in junior national group competition in 2011–2012.[6]In 2017, rope appeared in senior group competition. Freehand was an event for the four first World Championships before being dropped and only used in local competitions, usually for the youngest levels.

Since 2011, senior individual gymnasts perform four different routines with hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. Senior group perform two different routines, one with a single apparatus and one with mixed apparatus (for example, a routine with 5 hoops and a routine with 3 balls / 2 ribbons). For junior individual gymnasts, the FIG selects four out of the five possible apparatuses. Junior groups perform two different routines with two different types of apparatus (for example, a routine with 5 hoops and a routine with 5 ribbons). As of 2017 rhythmic gymnastics equipment used in F.I.G. sanctioned events must have the F.I.G. logo on the apparatus.

Mónica Ferrández with a rope
Rope
It may be made of hemp or a synthetic material that retains the qualities of lightness and suppleness. Its length is in proportion to the size of the gymnast. When the middle of the rope is held down by the feet, both ends should reach the gymnasts' armpits. One or two knots at each end are for keeping hold of the rope while doing the routine. At the ends (to the exclusion of all other parts of the rope) an anti-slip material, either coloured or neutral may cover a maximum of 10.0 cm (3.9 in). The rope must be colored, either all or partially. It may be either of a uniform diameter or be progressively thicker in the center provided that this thickening is of the same material as the rope. The fundamental requirements of a rope routine include leaps and skipping. Other elements include swings, throws, circles, rotations and figures of eight. Since 2011, theFIGdecided to nullify the use of rope in senior individual rhythmic gymnastics competitions. Before 2013, jumps and leaps were the Compulsory Body Movement Groups (dominant in the exercise).

Customization: Ropes can be color dyed. It is not common practice because the majority of the paints are water-based and can start coming off with sweat.

Hoop
A hoop may be made of plastic or wood, provided that it retains its shape during the routine. The hoop is chosen based on the gymnast's size and should not extend beyond the hip bone when placed standing up on the floor. The interior diameter is from 51 to 90 cm and the hoop must weigh a minimum of 300g. Children and hope divisions, a minimum of 225 grams.[7]The hoop may be of natural color or be partially or fully covered by one or several colors, and it may be covered with adhesive tape either of the same or different color as the hoop. Fundamental requirements of a hoop routine include rotation around the hand or body and rolling, as well as swings, circles, throws, and passes through and over the hoop.

Customization: Hoops are often customized using colored tapes to match the design of the leotards.[8]

Margarita Mamunwith a ball
Ball
It is made of either rubber or synthetic material (pliable plastic) provided it possesses the same elasticity as rubber. Senior and junior gymnasts is 18 to 20 cm in diameter and must have a minimum weight of 400g. The ball can be of any color. The ball should rest in the gymnast's hand and not rest against the wrist or be able to be grasped. Fundamental elements of a ball routine include throwing, bouncing or rolling. The gymnast must use both hands and work on the whole floor area whilst showing continuous flowing movement. The ball is to emphasize the gymnasts flowing lines and body difficulty. Before 2013, flexibility and waves were the Compulsory Body Movement Groups (dominant in the exercise).
Clubs
Senior and junior clubs must weight a minimum of 150 grams per club. Children's and hope age division's minimum weight should be 75 grams per club. Multi-piece clubs are the most popular clubs. The club is built along an internal rod, providing a base on which a handle made ofpolyolefinplastic is wrapped, providing an airspace between it and the internal rod. This airspace provides flex and cushioning impact, making the club softer on the hands. Foam ends and knobs further cushion the club. Multi-piece clubs are made in both a thin European style or larger bodied American style and in various lengths, generally ranging from 19 to 21 inches (480 to 530 millimetres). The handles and bodies are typically wrapped with decorative plastics and tapes. Clubs are thrown from alternate hands; each passes underneath the other clubs and is caught in the opposite hand to the one from which it was thrown. At its simplest, each club rotates once per throw, the handle moving down and away from the throwing hand at first. However, double and triple spins are frequently performed, allowing the club to be thrown higher for more advanced patterns and to allow tricks such as 360s (channes) to be performed underneath. Before 2013, balances were the Compulsory Body Movement Groups (dominant in the exercise).
Viktoria Stadnikwith a ribbon
Ribbon
It is made of satin or another similar material cloth of any color; it may be multi-colored and have designs on it. The ribbon itself must be at least 35 g (1.2 oz), 4–6 cm (1.6–2.4 ") in width and have a minimum length of 6m (20') for seniors and 5m (16.25') for juniors. The ribbon must be in one piece. The end that is attached to the stick is doubled for a maximum length of 1m (3'). This is stitched down both sides. At the top, a very thin reinforcement or rows of machine stitching for a maximum length of 5 cm is authorized. This extremity may end in a strap, or have an eyelet (a small hole, edged with a buttonhole stitch or metal circle), to permit attaching the ribbon. The ribbon is fixed to the stick by means of a supple attachment such as thread, nylon cord, or a series of articulated rings. The attachment has a maximum length of 7 cm (2.8" ), not counting the strap or metal ring at the end of the stick where it will be fastened. Compulsory elements for the ribbon include flicks, circles, snakes and spirals, and throws. It requires a high degree of co-ordination to form the spirals and circles as any knots which may accidentally form in the ribbon are penalized. During a ribbon routine, large, smooth and flowing movements are looked for. The ribbon may not stop moving or else points are taken off. Before 2013, pivots were the Compulsory Body Movement Groups (dominant in the exercise).Ribbon is also known as the hardest apparatus in Rhythmic gymnastics.

Scoring system

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In rhythmic gymnastics, competitions exercises are evaluated by parameters which are reviewed every four years, the system defining the FiG Code of Points. After each Olympic games, the scoring process is modified.

Code of Points

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In the Code of Points (2022–2024), the final score of a routine is the sum of the difficulty, execution, and artistry scores. Penalties incurred are deducted from the final score. The difficulty score is open-ended with no maximum, while the execution and artistry scores have a starting value of 10 points. There are penalties which are applied by subtracting points from the final score for specific mistakes made by the gymnast.

Difficultyconsists of body difficulties (jumps, balances and rotations), dynamic elements with rotation (commonly known as risks), dance step combinations (for individual gymnasts and groups), and apparatus difficulties (only for individuals gymnasts) and exchanges and collaborations (only for groups). The difficulty score is evaluated during the routine without a predetermined difficulty sheet, unlike with previous Codes. Each difficulty component has an assigned value, which accumulate throughout the routine, resulting in the final difficulty score.

Executionis the degree to which the gymnast performs with aesthetic and technical perfection. Scoring is not subjective. First, the unity and character of the composition, harmony with the music, body expression and the variety in the use of space and apparatus elements, among others are evaluated; next, the technical handling of the apparatus (like catching the ball with one hand and not two, not losing the apparatus, etc.) and technical aspects of body movements (like touching the head with the foot during a ring form, not falling, etc.) are evaluated. Errors or deviations from the perfect model of conduct accumulate and are assigned specific penalty values, which are subtracted from the starting value (an execution score of 10 represents a perfect execution matching the model, without error).

Finally,Penaltiesare taken by the time, line, and coordinator judges. Possible penalties include:

  • The gymnast leaving the floor area
  • The apparatus leaving the floor area
  • The exercise being longer or shorter than the acceptable length of time (1'15 "to 1'30" is the required length for individual, and 2'15 "to 2'30" is the required length for group)
  • Music not conforming to the regulations
  • Dress of the gymnast not conforming to the regulations
  • Communication with the coach during the execution of the exercise
  • Verbal communication between group gymnasts during the exercise
  • Grabbing a new apparatus from the side of the floor if the first apparatus is still on the floor area.

Evolution of the Code of Points

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The first Code of Points was published in 1970. Since then, rhythmics gymnastics has known 15 different codes (1970–1971, 1971–1972, 1973–1976, 1977–1980, 1981–1984, 1985–1988, 1989–1992, 1993–1996, 1997–2000, 2001–2004, 2005–2008, 2009–2012, 2013–2016, 2017–2021, 2022–2024). Since 1984 and the first appearance at theOlympics,the Code of Points is renewed after each Olympics.

In the decades of the 60s and 70s, scoring emphasized the artistic side, with little emphasis on difficulty. In the 80s new difficulty elements were introduced to give greater prominence to flexibility and risk releases, and to encourage originality with emerging new devices. In 1985 the score was composed of: Composition (Technical + Artistry) was scored on 5 points and Execution was scored on 5 points. In 1997, the Code of Points was significantly changed, by dividing the score into Artistry (based on 5 for individual or 6 points for groups), Technical (based on 5 points for individuals or 4 points for groups) and Execution (based on 10 points), the perfect score being 10 points for individuals and 20 points for groups.

In the late 90s, there was an appearance of gymnasts whose exercise flexibility was used as a main element (Yana BatyrchinaorAlina Kabaevafor example), which motivated a major change in the Code in 2001, doubling the number of required elements of difficulty (10 maximum during the 2001–2004 Olympic cycle, one difficulty could be composed of 2-3 difficulties; 18 maximum during the 2005–2008 Olympic cycle) and reduced the value of the artistic element, which was now combined with apparatus difficulty (also known as mastery) and risks. The final mark was then obtained by adding notes Difficulty (or Technical before 2005), Artistry and Execution, each with a maximum value of 10 points, so the final score would be a maximum of 30 points. During the Olympic cycle 2005–2008, the final score would be a maximum of 20 points to join the average grade of Difficulty and Artistry.

In 2009 the code was subjected to another important change. The final mark was obtained by adding notes Difficulty (12 difficulties with the body, masteries and risks), Artistry and Execution, each with a maximum value of 10 points, so the final score would be a maximum of 30 points. In 2013, the code introduced the Dance steps combination and an Execution score taking into account both technical and artistic execution. The score then was on 20 points with 10 points for Difficulty (9 difficulties with the body, masteries, 5 risks and dance steps combination) and 10 points for Execution (technical and artistic penalties). The 2017 code was very similar, with a difficulty strictly limited and differences among the best gymnasts heavily determined by the execution. Therefore, in 2018, the Difficulty became open for the first time.

Major competitions

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According to the technical regulations defined by theInternational Gymnastics Federation(FiG), the only official competitions in which rhythmic gymnastics events are contested globally are: theWorld Championships;the stages of theWorld Cup series(including the defunctWorld Cup Finaland World Cup qualifiers); theWorld Games;and theOlympic Games(as well as theYouth Olympic Games).[9]Test Events for the Olympic Games were held in 2000, 2004, 2008,2012and2016,and were also officially organized by the FIG.[10][11][12]Since 2019,Junior World Championshipsare held every two years.

The nations which have earned at least one medal in official FIG competitions are:[13][14]

Major rhythmic gymnastics tournaments not officially organized by FIG include theEuropean Championships(as well as itsjunior division), theEuropean Games,theGrand Prix seriesand the competitions at theSummer Universiade.[36]Also, continental championships are held in theAmericasandAsia,as well regional multi-sport events in which rhythmic gymnastics is part of the program, such as thePan American Gamesand theAsian Games.Major defunct championships or competitions in which rhythmic gymnastics events were held include theEuropean Cup Final,theEuropean Team Gymnastics Championships,theGoodwill Games,and theFour Continents Gymnastics Championships(reserved for senior athletes from the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania).

Dominant teams and nations

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Rhythmic gymnastics has been dominated byEastern Europeancountries, especially theSoviet Union(Post-Soviet Republics of today) andBulgaria.The two countries were in rivalry with each other before the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Soviet Union

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Galima Shugurova

Before the breakup of theSoviet Unionin 1991, Soviet rhythmic gymnasts were engaged in a fierce competition withBulgaria.The firstWorld Championshipsheld in 1963 inBudapest,Hungarywas won by Soviet gymnastLudmila Savinkovaand in 1967 inCopenhagen,Denmark the first Group Championships was also won by theUSSR.

Other Soviet World AA Champions in individuals includedElena Karpuchina,Galima ShugurovaandIrina Deriugina.Marina Lobatchbecame the first Soviet to win theOlympic Gamesin the1988 Seoul Olympics.In 1991,The Unified Teamwas formed and saw a competition of the two Soviet/Ukrainian gymnasts,Olexandra TymoshenkoandOxana Skaldinaat the1992 Summer OlympicsinBarcelona.

Other notable Soviet gymnasts include:Tatiana Kravtchenko,Liubov Sereda,Alfia Nazmutdinova,Natalia Krachinnekova,Irina Devina,Elena Tomas,Irina Gabashvili,Inessa Lisovskaya,Dalia Kutkaitė,Venera Zaripova,Galina Beloglazova,Anna KotchnevaandTatiana Druchinina.

Bulgaria

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Bianka Panova

Since the start of the inception of rhythmic gymnastics as a World Championship event, Bulgaria was in competition with theUSSR;during the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, Bulgaria has won 10 individual World Titles with its star gymnastsMaria Gigova(3 time World AA Champion),Neshka RobevaandKristina Guiourova.

The 1980s marked the height of Bulgarian success known as theGolden Girls of Bulgaria,with gymnastsIliana Raeva,Anelia Ralenkova,Lilia Ignatova,Diliana Gueorguieva,Bianka Panova,Adriana DunavskaandElizabeth Kolevadominating the World Championships.Bianka Panovabecame the first rhythmic gymnast to make a clean sweep of all five individual events at a World Championship by attaining full marks. She also became the first rhythmic gymnast to get into theGuinness Book of World Recordsby her perfect performance of full 10 marks in all her routines (total of 8) at a World Championship, and received the trophy personally from the President of theInternational Olympic Committeeat the time,Juan Antonio Samaranch.

The early 1990s were marked by the full domination ofMaria Petrova,3 time World AA Champion and 3 time European AA Champion. Other notable gymnasts includeMila Marinova,Dimitrinka TodorovaandDiana Popova.

The early 2000s marked the decline of individual rhythmic gymnasts of Bulgaria, though with still a few notable gymnasts includingTeodora Alexandrova,Simona PeychevaandSylvia Miteva.Boyanka Angelova,who gained popularity among the public, retired early due to injuries. Newer Bulgarian individual gymnasts includeNeviana Vladinova,Katrin Taseva,Boryana Kaleyn,Eva BrezalievaandStiliana Nikolova.Bulgaria is currently more engaged in group rhythmic gymnastics with successful gymnasts includingZhaneta Ilieva,Eleonora Kezhova,Kristina Rangelova,Zornitsa Marinova,Vladislava Tancheva,Hristiana Todorova,Tsvetelina Naydenova,Tsvetelina Stoyanova,Lubomira Kazanova,Reneta KamberovaandMihaela Maevska.Bulgaria is also the current Olympic champion in all-around group gymnastics, having won gold at Tokyo 2020 (Simona Dyankova,Laura Traets,Stefani Kiryakova,Madlen Radukanova,andErika Zafirova).

Russia

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After the breakup of theSoviet Union,Russia has been the dominant country in rhythmic gymnastics since the start of the late 1990s saw the rise of stars likeAmina Zaripova,Yanina BatyrchinaandAlina Kabaeva.Oksana Kostinabecame Russia's first World Champion as an independent country.

In the2000 Summer OlympicsinSydney,Yulia Barsukovabecame the first Russian to win the Olympic gold medal.Alina Kabaeva,who had won bronze in Sydney, went on to win gold in the2004 Athens Olympics.Evgenia Kanaevabecame the first individual rhythmic gymnast to win two gold medals in the Olympic Games at the2008 Beijing Olympicsand2012 London Olympics.Margarita Mamuncontinued the streak of individual gold medalists at the2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympicswhile the competition favorite 3-times World championYana Kudryavtsevatook silver because of a drop in her clubs routine during the finals.

Dina AverinaandArina Averinahave cemented their status as two of the best rhythmic gymnasts in Russia's history. Dina has won multiple World Championship titles, dominating the sport since her senior debut. She has secured over 20 gold medals at the World Championships, making her one of the most decorated gymnasts in the history of the sport. Arina Averina, equally talented, has also achieved significant success, consistently earning medals in major international competitions, including World andEuropean Championships.Known for their exceptional performances characterized by difficulty, precision, and artistry, the Averina twins have set new standards in rhythmic gymnastics. Their achievements have not only continued Russia's legacy of excellence but have also inspired a new generation of gymnasts.

Other notable gymnasts includeNatalia Lipkovskaya,Irina Tchachina,Natalia Lavrova,Zarina Gizikova,Laysan Utiasheva,Vera Sessina,Olga Kapranova,Yelena Posevina,Anna Gavrilenko,Margarita Aliychuk,Olga Belova,Daria Shkurikhina,Anastasia Maksimova,Tatiana Gorbunova,Uliana Donskova,Yana Lukonina,Anastasia Nazarenko,Anastasia Bliznyuk,Ksenia Dudkina,Karolina Sevastyanova,Olga Ilina,Daria Kondakova,Daria Dmitrieva,Ekaterina Selezneva,Alexandra Merkulova,Daria Svatkovskaya,Yana Kudryavtseva,Maria Tolkacheva,Aleksandra Soldatova,Irina Annenkova,Diana Borisova,Iuliia Bravikova,Anastasiia Tatareva,Daria Dubova,Vera Biryukova,Sofya Skomorokh,Daria TrubnikovaandLala Kramarenko.

The Russian Group has won five of the seven Group exercises held in the Olympics since it was included in the Olympic Games back in1996 Summer Olympics.

Ukraine

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Anna Bessonova

Even as part of theUSSR,a number of Soviet gymnasts were trained inUkraineor with Ukrainian origin including the first World ChampionLudmila SavinkovaandLiubov Sereda.Ukraine has won 1 gold and 4 bronze medals at the Olympic Games. If you include all Ukrainian gymnasts /with those representing the Unified Team & USSR but with Ukrainian origins/, then they have won 2 gold and 6 bronze medals (Alexandra Timoshenko /gold & bronze/, Ekaterina Serebrianskaya /gold/, Anna Besseonova /2 bronzes/, Oksana Skaldina /bronze/, Olena Vitrichenko /bronze/ and Ganna Rizatdinova /bronze/). The mother and daughter tandem of Albina andIrina Deriuginaplayed an important role in the success of RG in the country, raising stars likeOlexandra TymoshenkoandOxana Skaldina.

After the breakup of theSoviet Union,Ukraine continued its success in rhythmic gymnastics withKateryna Serebrianskawinning the Olympic gold medal at the1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Other notable gymnasts includeAnna Bessonova(two-timeOlympicbronze medalist),Olena Vitrychenko(1996 Olympics bronze),Ganna Rizatdinova(2016 Olympics bronze),Tamara Yerofeeva,Natalia Godunko,Alina Maksymenko,Victoria Stadnik,Olena Dmytrash,Viktoriia Mazur,Valeriia Gudym,Yevgeniya Gomon,Valeriya Khanina,Oleksandra Gridasova,Anastasiia Mulmina,Anastasiya Voznyak,Kateryna Lutsenko,Olena Diachenko,Vlada Nikolchenko,Khrystyna Pohranychna,Viktoriia OnopriienkoandPolina Karika.

Belarus

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Larisa Lukyanenko

Belarushas had success in both individual and group rhythmic gymnastics after the breakup of theSoviet Union.The first Soviet Olympic gold medalist at the1988 Seoul Olympics,Marina Lobatch,was a Belarusian.

Since the late 1990s, Belarus has had continued success in the Olympic Games and has won two silver and two bronze medals in individuals respectively, withYulia Raskina,Inna Zhukova,Liubov CharkashynaandAlina Harnasko.

Other notable gymnasts includeLarissa Loukianenko,Ksenia Sankovich,Svetlana Rudalova,Aliaksandra Narkevich,Tatiana Ogrizko,Zinaida Lunina,Arina Charopa,Alina Tumilovich,Valeria Vatkina,Evgenia Pavlina,Maria Kadobina,Anastasia Ivankova,Hanna Bazhko,Elena Tkachenko,Melitina Staniouta,Elena Bolotina,Mariya Trubach,Katsiaryna Halkina,Julia Evchik,Alina HarnaskoandAnastasiia Salos.

The Belarusian Group has won two silver and a bronze medal in the Olympics.

Other Post-Soviet Republics

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Azerbaijanis now amongst the top countries for individual and group rhythmic gymnastics. The development of the sport particularly boosted afterMehriban Aliyevabecame the President of the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation in 2002.[37]In 2007,Mariana Vasilevawho was a former Bulgarian rhythmic gymnast and a coach in Levski club inSofiacame to Azerbaijan to coach Azerbaijani gymnasts. Since 2009, Vasileva has been appointed as head coach of the Azerbaijan Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation. Notable rhythmic gymnasts include 2011 World All-Around bronze medalistAliya Garayeva,Anna Gurbanova,Dinara Gimatova,Zeynab Javadli,Lala Yusifova,Marina Durunda,Zhala Piriyeva,Elif Zeynep Celep,Ayshan Bayramova,Zohra AghamirovaandArzu Jalilova.Azerbaijan competes at the European Championships, even though it is geographically located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Azerbaijan hosted a number of large competitions, including2005 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships,2007 Rhythmic Gymnastics European Championships,2009 Rhythmic Gymnastics European Championships,2014 Rhythmic Gymnastics European Championships,and2019 World Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships.

InGeorgia,Soviet rhythmic gymnast and 1979 World All-around bronze medalistIrina Gabashviliwas of Georgian origin. Another notable Georgian is the dynamicSalome Pazhava,doing well in the Continental Games and World Championships.

OtherPost-Soviet Republics,especially in Central Asia, have had considerable success in rhythmic gymnastics, includingKazakhstanandUzbekistan.NotableKazakhstanigymnasts includeAliya Yussupova,Anna Alyabyeva,Aliya Assymova,Sabina Ashirbayeva,Alina Adilkhanova,Elzhana TaniyevaandAibota Yertaikyzy.InUzbekistan,notable gymnasts include:Ulyana Trofimova,Djamila Rakhmatova,Elizaveta Nazarenkova,Anastasiya Serdyukova,Valeriya Davidova,Anora Davlyatova,Sabina Tashkenbaeva,Ekaterina FetisovaandTakhmina Ikromova.

InBaltic states,Irina Kikkasbecame the firstEstonianrhythmic gymnast to qualify to an Olympic Games andViktoria Bogdanovabecame the first Estonian gymnast to win a medal at theUniversiade.The Estonian Group has won its first medal at theEuropean Championships in 2020.

Spain

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Carmen Acedo

Spainhas a great tradition in rhythmic gymnastics. Some notable success in rhythmic gymnastics for Spain includeAna Bautista,who won gold medal in rope competition in theEuropean Cup finalin 1989,Carolina Pascual,the silver medalist at the1992 Barcelona Olympics,Carmen Acedowho won gold medal in clubs competition inWorld Championshipsin 1993, Rosabel Espinosa, 1991 European Junior All-around bronze medalist,Almudena Cidwho is a four-time Olympian (1996, 2000, 2004 and 2008) andCarolina Rodriguez.Newer Spanish individual gymnasts includeNatalia García,Sara Llana,Polina Berezina,Salma SolaunandAlba Bautista.

Spain is more engaged in group rhythmic gymnastics and the Spanish Group became the first to win the Olympic gold in Group rhythmic gymnastics since it was added in the1996 Summer OlympicsinAtlanta,with the help of the Bulgarian coachEmilia Boneva.The Spanish Group was formed byMarta Baldó,Nuria Cabanillas,Estela Giménez,Lorena Guréndez,Tania LamarcaandEstíbaliz Martínez.Spanish group also won the silver in the2016 Summer Olympics.

Italy

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Milena Baldassarri

Like Spain,Italyis more engaged in Group rhythmic gymnastics; the Italian Group is 4 time Group World AA Champion and has won three medals (a silver and two bronze) at the Olympic Games. Famous group gymnasts includeMarta Pagnini,Elisa Santoni,Andreea Stefanescu,Romina Laurito,Anzhelika Savrayuk,Elisa Blanchi.

Notable athletes includeSamantha Ferrariwho won a bronze medal in clubs at the 1991 World Championships, other notable individual gymnasts areKatia Pietrosanti,Susanna Marchesi,Julieta Cantaluppi,Federica Febbo,Veronica Bertolini,Alessia Russo,Alexandra Agiurgiuculese,Milena Baldassarri,Talisa TorrettiandSofia Raffaeli.

Israel

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Linoy Ashram

Israelis a rising nation in rhythmic gymnastics. Israeli head coach Irina Vigdorchik, who moved fromMoscowto Israel in 1979, said rhythmic gymnastics had been brought to Israel by Russian immigrants in the early 1970s.[38]

The sport began its success in the 2000s with notable Israeli gymnasts includingIrina Risenzon,Neta Rivkinwho have placed in Top 10 in the Olympic Games finals. Other notable gymnasts includeKaterina Pisetsky,Veronika Vitenberg,Rahel Vigdozchik,Victoria Veinberg Filanovsky,Linoy Ashram(the first Israeli rhythmic gymnast to win a medal at the Olympic games and an All-around medal at the World Championships),Nicol Zelikman,Adi Asya KatzandDaria Atamanov.

The Israeli Group has also begun to be amongst the leading Group rhythmic gymnasts in the World Cup and World Championship competitions, and has won its first gold medal at the2016 European Championships.It has so far peaked twice by placing 6th in the Olympic games in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.[39][40]

Other European nations

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Germanyhas had considerable success in the sport, especially from the late 1960s to the early 1990s, with World medalistsUte Lehmann,Carmen Rischer,Christiana Rosenberg,Bianca Dittrichand 1984 Olympic medalistRegina Weber.The 1990s had notable gymnastsMagdalena BrzeskaandEdita Schaufler,and in the 2000s withLisa Ingildeeva,Laura Jung,Jana Berezko-Marggrander,Noemi Peschel, Lea Tkaltschewitsch,Margarita KolosovandDarja Varfolomeev.

InCzechoslovakia,the 1960s and 1970s marked the peak of Czechoslovak rhythmic gymnastics' success with World medalistsHana Machatová-Bogušovská,Hana Sitnianská-Mičechová,Zuzana Záveská, Iveta Havlíčková andDaniela Bošanská.Other notable Czech gymnasts from the 2000s areDominika Červenková,Monika Míčkováand Anna Šebková.

Romaniahas enjoyed more success inartistic gymnastics,but also had their share of producing talents (especially in the 1980s and 1990s), likeDoina Stăiculescu,Irina Deleanu,Alexandra Piscupescu,Ana Luiza Filiorianu,Andreea Verdes,Annaliese DraganandAmalia Lică

InHungary,Maria Patocskabecame the first Hungarian rhythmic gymnast to win a medal at the World Championships. Other notable gymnasts includeViktória Fráter,Dóra Vass,Fanni PigniczkiandEvelin Viktória Kocsis.

Greeceis primarily oriented towards Group exercises, especially successful during the 1996–2000 quad, but has also established in individuals notably with gymnastsMaria Pagalou,Evmorfia Dona,Eleni Andriola,Varvara Filiou,Eleni KelaiditiandPanagiota Lytra.

Francehas had considerable success in Individual rhythmic gymnastics withEva Serranoplacing 5th at the2000 Sydney Olympics;other French gymnasts includeDelphine Ledoux,Kseniya Moustafaeva,Axelle Jovenin, Valérie Romenski,Hélène Karbanov,Maëlle MilletandLily Ramonatxo.The Group placed 9th in the All-Around competition at the 2017 World Championships and 6th in the 5 hoops final at the 2018 World Championships.

Asia and Americas

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Erika Akiyama

Although European countries have been always dominant in this sport (only fiveWorld Championshipshave been held outside Europe so far, one in Cuba, one in USA and three in Japan) and only five individual gymnasts (Sun Duk Jo, Myong Sim Choi, Mitsuru Hiraguchi,Son Yeon-jae,Kaho Minagawa) and three groups (Japan, North Korea and China) from outside Europe have won medals at theWorld Championships,rhythmic gymnastics is growing.

Japanhas a long tradition in rhythmic gymnastics. Since their first competition in 1971, the Japanese group has never finished lower than 10th (except in 2003, 16th) at an AA World Championships. In 2019, they becameWorld Champion with 5 ballsfor the first time. Japan had and still has notable gymnasts such as Mitsuru Hiraguchi,Erika Akiyama,Yukari Murata,Sakura Hayakawa,Kaho Minagawa,Sumire KitaandChisaki Oiwa.Other countries inEast Asiahave developed world class gymnasts, such asSouth KoreawithShin Soo-ji,Son Yeon-jae,andChinawithPang Qiong,He Xiaomin,Zhou Xiaojing,Zhong Ling,Sun Dan,Xiao Yiming,Deng Senyue,Liu Jiahui,Shang RongandZhao Yating.North Koreahas had success in group rhythmic gymnastics in the 1970s to the early 1990s and individual rhythmic gymnastics with Sun Duk Jo and Myong Sim Choi.

Although it has not gained as much following compared to itsartistic gymnasticscounterpart, it is also a rising sport in theUnited Stateswith some notable rhythmic gymnasts includingMichelle Berube,Mary Sanders(a dual USA/Canadian citizen who has competed for both countries),Julie Zetlin,Jasmine Kerber,Nastasya Generalova,Laura Zeng,Camilla Feeley,Evita Griskenas,Lili MizunoandAlexandria Kautzman.Other up-and-coming nations in theWestern Hemisphereinclude Canada, Mexico and Brazil, with some notable rhythmic gymnasts includingLori Fung,Mary Sanders(who also competed for the USA),Alexandra Orlando,Patricia Bezzoubenko,Cynthia Valdez,Rut Castillo,Karla Diaz,Marina Malpica,Angélica Kvieczynski,Natália Gaudio,Bárbara DomingosandGeovanna Santos.

Men's rhythmic gymnastics

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Japanese men's rhythmic gymnastics

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See also:ja: Nam tử tân thể thao

Men's Rhythmic Gymnastics (Men's RG, MRG)is an artistic sport which is performed to music on a 13-by-13-metre (43 ft × 43 ft) gymnasticspring floor.It is sometimes called synchronized tumbling, combining the dynamism of powerful acrobatics and perfection of synchronous moves. Athletes are judged on some of the same physical abilities and skills as their female counterparts, such as hand/body/eye co-ordination, but tumbling, strength, and power are the main focus, as well as apparatus handling, flexibility and movements called "Toshu"( "freehand" ). There are an increasing number of gymnasts, competing alone and on a team; it is most popular in Japan, where high school and university teams compete fiercely. As of 2016, it is estimated there are about 2,000 participants in Japan alone. Some of the outstanding rhythmic gymnasts have made most of their physical abilities for their second careers and become performers in the field of entertainment such as the world-famous circusCirque du Soleil.[41][citation needed]

History

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Men's rhythmic gymnastics in Japan was originally created by adopting elements from Swedish, Danish, and German gymnastics. It has been taught and performed for many years with the aim of improving physical strength and health as early as the 1940s. Originally, both boys and girls used to perform this type of gymnastics, which is called "Dantai Toshu Taisou",literally "group freehand gymnastics". In 1967, the name "Shintaisou"( "new gymnastics" ) was adopted as a translation of "Modern Gymnastics," which used to be done in Northern and Central Europe. On the other hand, rhythmic gymnastics for women has also been called "Shintaisou"in Japan since it was first imported to the country. Currently, MRG and women's rhythmic gymnastics are both under the umbrella of Japan Gymnastics Association and major competitions are often held at the same venue. Men's RG consists of two types of events: group events of 6 people (freehand or no apparatus) and individual events using apparatus (stick, rings, rope and clubs). Both group and individual events are performed on a spring floor, allowing gymnasts to do various kinds of tumbling during their performance.

Individuals

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For individual performances, a gymnast manipulates one or two pieces of apparatus (double rings, stick, clubs, rope) to demonstrate their skill at apparatus handling, throws, and catches as well as the difficulty of the tumbling. The gymnast must work the entire floor area whilst showing continuous flowing movement. The permitted time for individual events is between 1 minute 25 seconds to 1 minute 33 seconds. During a competition, each individual gymnast performs four separate routines, one for each apparatus. Points are based a 20-point scale. The first 10-point scale measures composition (difficulty) based on technical value, variety, harmony between music and movements, and originality, while the execution of performance is a maximum of 10 points. The individual scores of all four routines for each gymnast are then added up to decide the all-around winner.

Groups

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Group performance includes non-acrobatic movements called "Toshu"(handstands, flexibility exercises, balance, etc.), and rotational movements (tumbling and lifts). Group performances are done without using any apparatus. The permitted time for group events is between 2 minutes 45 seconds to 3 minutes. Points are awarded based a 20-point scale that measures difficulty and execution of the routine. Composition/difficulty of performance is scored out of a maximum of 10 points, based on technical value (such as difficulty of tumbling elements and movement elements), variety (variety of movements, change of formations, etc.), harmony between music and movements, and originality, with deductions for lack of required elements or stepping out of bounds, and so on. Execution of performance is scored out of a maximum of 10 points, based on quality of execution, accuracy of performance and synchronization, with deductions taken for mistakes or lack of movements in unison, etc. Some of the group routine videos went viral on the Internet, including Ibara High School's two routines in 2013 and 2016 andAomori University's routine in 2009, which was dedicated to their deceased teammate. Many other MRG videos are also available onYouTube.

Internationalization

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On November 27–29, 2003, Japan hosted the Men's RG World Championship. This first championship drew ten countries from two continents:Japan,Korea,China,Malaysia,Singapore, Australia, Canada, United States, Russia, Ukraine and more. The 2005 World Championship included Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Malaysia, Korea, Russia, Singapore, Ukraine, United States and more. Men's RG is a currently recognized by the FIG.

In 2013, the Aomori University MRG Team collaborated with renowned Japanese fashion designerIssey Miyakeand American choreographerDaniel Ezralow(Spiderman, Cirque du Soleil) to create a one-hour contemporary performance, "Flying Bodies, Soaring Spirits," that featured all 27 Aomori men's rhythmic gymnasts outfitted in Miyake's signature costumes. Held July 18, 2013 atYoyogi National Stadiumin Tokyo, the show drew an audience of 2,600. "Flying Bodies" was also captured in a 78-minute documentary by directorHiroyuki Nakanothat follows the coaches, gymnasts and creative team for the three months leading up to the performance.[42]

Men's rhythmic gymnasts ofAomori Universityshowed their Performance at the2016 Summer Olympics closing ceremony.

Spanish men's rhythmic gymnastics

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There are, particularly in Europe, some male rhythmic gymnasts who train and perform in the same way as their female counterparts and generally applies the same FIG rules as for women's rhythmic gymnastics. Spain is a pioneer country in the field, the Spanish federation having approved at national level a separate category for individual men since 2009 and mixed groups since 2020.[43]Examples of rhythmic gymnasts includeRubén Orihuela(Spain), Ismael Del Valle (Spain), Jose Sanchez Diaz (Spain), Gerard Lopez (Spain), Thomas Gandon (France) and Peterson Céüs (France). However, the discipline is not recognized by the FIG, there is nearly no international coordination done so far to develop international tournaments and very few countries help men to start rhythmic gymnastics.

See also

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References

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