Am I still obsessed with the Olympics? Ahem, maybe.
Taking this to the next level involved a little digging. I didn’t just want to know the benefits of joining a gymnastics program. Instead, I focused solely on artistic gymnastics as it’s a sport that combines athleticism, grace, and artistry.
Artistic gymnastics requires a high level of physical strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. Competitors perform a series of routines on various apparatus, including the vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. And after being glued to the day-by-day results of the Paris Olympics, I knew I had to learn more.
The History of Artistic Gymnastics
Let’s go back to the beginning. The origins of gymnastics can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was considered a fundamental part of physical education. The ancient Greeks believed that gymnastics was essential for developing a strong and healthy body, as well as a disciplined mind.
Over time, gymnastics evolved and spread to other parts of Europe and eventually to the rest of the world. (No kidding?)
What Apparatus is in Artistic Gymnastics?
Each apparatus, or piece of equipment, is what gymnasts use to demonstrate their strength and agility during competitions. And in artistic gymnastics, there are a few unique challenges and demands on the athlete.
Vault
From Rebeca Andrade of Brazil to McKayla Maroney and Simone Biles, the vault is a fan favorite and arguably one of the more difficult apparatuses to master. This event involves performing a powerful and dynamic jump over a horse-shaped apparatus. Gymnasts can choose from various vaults, including the handspring, back handspring, and front handspring.
Uneven Bars
The uneven bars apparatus consists of two parallel bars of different heights. Gymnasts perform a series of swings, flips, and releases on the bars, showcasing their upper body strength and coordination.
Balance Beam
Again, we turn to Simone Biles as one of the greats on the balance beam. But of course, we would be remiss not to mention Shawn Johnson, Laurie Hernandez, and Sui Li. A narrow beam four inches wide and 16 feet long, the balance beam requires exceptional balance, flexibility, and precision. Gymnasts perform a series of acrobatic elements and dance moves while maintaining their equilibrium.
Floor Exercise
This event takes place on a carpeted floor, where gymnasts perform a choreographed routine that combines tumbling, dance, and acrobatics. The routine is typically set to music and allows gymnasts to express their creativity and personality.
What are Artistic Gymnastics Competitions Like?
Artistic gymnastics competitions are typically divided into two categories: women's and men's. Women compete on the vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise, while men compete on the vault, parallel bars, rings, horizontal bar, pommel horse (AKA the Stephen Nedoroscik), and floor exercise.
Competitors are judged on a variety of factors, including difficulty, execution, artistry, and composition. The most difficult elements are awarded higher scores, but it is also important to perform the routines cleanly and with grace. The overall winner is determined by the gymnast with the highest combined score across all four or six events.
The Benefits of Artistic Gymnastics
Artistic gymnastics offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. It is an excellent way to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Additionally, gymnastics can help to develop self-discipline, confidence, and body awareness.
Finding Artistic Gymnastics Near You
Artistic gymnastics is a captivating sport that requires a combination of athleticism, artistry, and mental toughness. It is a demanding discipline that challenges athletes to push their limits and achieve their full potential. Whether you are a spectator or a participant, artistic gymnastics is sure to inspire and amaze. Check out our listings to find a gymnastics program near you.