What should we know about gymnastics equipment?
Many of you might be curious about the right way to select gymnastics equipment. Are there any specific considerations or advice to follow? What factors should be taken into account when picking the right equipment?
In the following sections, we'll dive into the details of each apparatus, introducing different models, comparing materials and sizes, and providing guidance on proper storage conditions. We'll offer advice on how to avoid mistakes when selecting the right equipment.
There are 5 types of equipment in rhythmic gymnastics:
- Rope
- Hoop
- Ball
- Clubs
- Ribbon
Each piece of equipment is chosen based on the gymnast's age, height, and level of expertise. Other factors like music, the style of the routine, leotard design, and physique should also be considered. A well-coordinated blend of these elements creates a balanced and appealing image of the gymnast for the judges.
BALL
TYPES:
The ball for rhythmic gymnastics should be of a certain size, weight and made of high quality rubber.
There are two types of balls:
- Plain
- Glitter
The main difference is in appearance.
A beginner may start with the plain ball as it is significantly cheaper.
FITTING:
16cm - Kids
17cm - Junior
18cm - Junior/Adult (FIG Approved)
The selection of ball size should be based on the gymnast's height and hand size. It is highly advisable to talk to your coach before making a purchase, as the choice often reflects the preferences of the coach.
ACCESSORIES:
- Ball Holder
- Used for storage. It also keeps the ball clean and protects its coating from possible deformation and scratches.
- Ball Inflator
- The ball is inflated with a special pump. Never inflate the ball with electric pumps, as you can over inflated the ball and deform its shape. When inflating the ball, feel it to ensure that it remains slightly soft, allowing for a comfortable grip in your hand.
ROPE
TYPES:
Currently, there are two types of materials used for ropes in rhythmic gymnastics:
- Nylon
- This material is considered more rigid, which makes it easier to perform throws.
- Polyester
- This material is softer which makes the rope more controllable while performing the routine.
It's hard to say which material is better. It should be an individual decision of the gymnast and the coach.
FITTING:
Rhythmic gymnastics ropes are typically available in a standard length of 2.5 to 3 meters, allowing gymnasts to customize them by cutting to the desired length and tying knots at each end. The length of the rope should be proportional to the gymnast's height. To ensure the correct size, the gymnast should stand on the middle of the rope; the ends should extend up to the gymnast's armpits, as demonstrated in the picture below.
ACCESSORIES:
- Rope Holder
- Recommended for rope storage.
HOOP
The typical hoop used in rhythmic gymnastics is white, but to add brightness, shine, and a unique appearance, it is commonly wrapped with adhesive tape.
FITTING:
To select the hoop size correctly, you need to measure the distance from the floor to your hip bone as indicated in the picture below.
The approximate hoop size chart based on the gymnast's height is shown below:
65cm in diameter (up to 120cm tall)
70cm in diameter (120cm-130cm tall)
75cm in diameter (130cm-140cm tall)
80cm in diameter (140cm-150cm tall) FIG Approved
85cm in diameter (150cm-160cm tall) FIG Approved
90cm in diameter (160cm tall and above) FIG Approved
ACCESSORIES:
- Hoop Holder
- Recommended for proper storage. Carrying a hoop in a holder is more convenient than carrying it by hand. The holder protects the hoop, keeping it clean and preventing damage to the tape.
- Tape
- The adhesive tape is applied for a better appearance. Each coil is 11m long and it’s enough to tape a whole hoop. For a more vibrant look, tapes in various colors may be applied.
CLUBS
TYPES:
There are 3 types of clubs:
- Plastic
- Rubber
- Combined (Plastic/Rubber)
The advantage of rubber and combined clubs is that they are less injurious when performing various elements.
Also, the clubs can be:
- Connectable
- Not connectable
Connectable clubs are fixed (inserted) into each other, which allows the gymnast to diversify the routine with a large number of elements.
FITTING:
To select the appropriate size for clubs, hold the club in your hand and align it with your arm, ensuring it extends to the midpoint of your shoulder as shown in the picture below.
The approximate clubs’ sizes based on the gymnast's age:
36cm in length for Kids
40,5cm in length for Junior (FIG Approved)
45,3cm in length for Senior (FIG Approved)
ACCESSORIES:
- Club holder
- Recommended for proper storage.
RIBBON
TYPES:
A standard ribbon for rhythmic gymnastics consists of three parts: a ribbon, a stick and a metal clip (carbine) connecting the stick and the ribbon. Ribbons are made of two materials – satin and viscose. These textiles are soft and glossy, bearing a resemblance to silk. Both sticks and ribbons may come in solid colors or feature multi-colored designs.
FITTING:
The length of the ribbon depends on the gymnast’s age and skills.
The approximate ribbon size chart based on the gymnast’s age:
- 4m in length for Kids
- 5 m in length for Juniors
- 6m in length for Seniors (FIG Approved)
ACCESSORIES:
- Ribbon stick
- The stick is to match the length of the ribbon.
- A 50cm stick is suitable for a 4m long ribbon.
- A 59cm stick is suitable for a ribbon of 5 or 6 m in length.
- Ribbon winder
- Recommended for proper storage.
The ribbon can be washed in warm water and ironed at low temperature.
Our store carries all of the equipment from mentioned above, allowing you to find the ideal fit and choose correctly before your competition.