Artistic Gymnastics allows both male and female gymnasts to participate and compete. Men perform in various events that include vault, pommel horse, still rings, parallel bars, high bar and floor. While women compete in vault, balance beam, uneven bars, and floor exercise. Artistic gymnastics focuses mainly on strength, balance, and agility.

Rhythmic Gymnastics routines, on the other hand, are all performed on the floor while using various types of apparatuses. All routines are performed to music contrasting to Artistic women’s gymnastics that includes music only on the floor exercise. Rhythmic individual and group events include the following apparatuses: floor, ball, hoop, rope, clubs and ribbon. Gymnasts perform in four of the six events each year; events are rotated every two years (higher levels normally do not compete in the floor event). Rhythmic gymnastics focuses primarily on grace, dance, flexibility, and eye-hand coordination.

To maximize improvement during rhythmic gymnastics practice, athletes should come prepared with a focused mindset and the necessary equipment. This preparation includes wearing appropriate practice attire, ensuring their hair is neatly secured, and bringing all essential training tools. By doing so, gymnasts can fully concentrate on refining their skills and making the most of each session.

Attire: Wear form-fitting leotards or practice outfits that allow for freedom of movement.
Hair: Style hair in a tight, secure bun to keep it out of the face and prevent distractions.
Equipment: Bring along all required apparatus such as ribbons, hoops, balls, and clubs, rope, toe-shoes, as well as any personal practice aids or accessories.

Don’t forget to stay hydrated!