Artistic gymnastics is a highly skilled sport that involves athletes performing routines on various apparatuses, each requiring precision, strength, flexibility, and control. The equipment used in artistic gymnastics is designed to help gymnasts perform specific movements safely and effectively while showcasing their athletic abilities. Below is a breakdown of the essential equipment used in both men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics.
1. Vault
The vault is used in both men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics. The apparatus is a solid table-like platform set at a certain height, over which gymnasts sprint, jump, and execute acrobatic movements.
- Vault Table: A rounded, padded surface that gymnasts spring off after running towards it.
- Springboard: A bouncy platform used by gymnasts to gain height before making contact with the vault table.
- Runway: A long, cushioned track used for the approach to the vault table. It’s generally about 25 meters long, allowing gymnasts to build up speed.
2. Uneven Bars (Women’s)
The uneven bars, exclusively used in women’s gymnastics, consist of two horizontal bars set at different heights, allowing gymnasts to perform swings, transitions, and release moves.
- Bars: Made from fiberglass or wood with a smooth coating, allowing for easy grips and swings.
- Bar Heights: The lower bar is usually set at about 1.7 meters, while the higher bar is set at around 2.4 meters. Both bars can be adjusted for the gymnast’s height and preference.
- Matting: Safety mats are placed underneath the bars to provide cushioning in case of falls.
3. Parallel Bars (Men’s)
The parallel bars are a men’s apparatus made of two horizontal bars at the same height. Gymnasts perform swings, holds, and flips between and over the bars.
- Bars: Made of wood or a synthetic material, placed at a height of about 2 meters.
- Adjustability: The width between the bars can be adjusted depending on the gymnast’s needs.
- Safety Mats: Similar to uneven bars, mats are placed under the apparatus to reduce the risk of injury during dismounts or falls.
4. Balance Beam (Women’s)
The balance beam is a narrow horizontal bar raised above the ground, used only in women’s artistic gymnastics. Gymnasts perform complex movements like flips, leaps, and turns while maintaining balance.
- Beam: Typically 5 meters long and 10 centimeters wide, the beam is covered with a padded surface to provide grip and cushioning.
- Height: Set about 1.25 meters off the ground.
- Mats: Thick mats are placed around the beam to protect gymnasts during dismounts or in case of falls.
5. Still Rings (Men’s)
The still rings are used exclusively by men and require immense upper body strength and control. The apparatus consists of two hanging rings that gymnasts use to perform static holds, swings, and dismounts.
- Rings: Made of wood or synthetic materials, they are attached to long straps that hang from a frame.
- Height: Rings are suspended about 2.75 meters from the ground.
- Safety Mats: Mats are placed below to ensure a safe landing area.
6. Pommel Horse (Men’s)
The pommel horse is a men’s apparatus used to perform continuous circular movements and leg swings without stopping. This apparatus requires incredible upper body and core strength.
- Horse: A padded body with two handles or “pommels” on top, which gymnasts use for handholds during routines.
- Height: The horse is set about 1.15 meters above the floor.
- Matting: Safety mats are placed around the pommel horse to absorb impact during falls or dismounts.
7. Horizontal Bar (Men’s)
The horizontal bar is another men’s apparatus, where gymnasts perform giant swings, releases, and intricate dismounts.
- Bar: Made from steel or a flexible metal, allowing for high-speed swings and releases.
- Height: Set at around 2.75 meters above the ground.
- Mats: Thick mats are placed under the bar to reduce injury risks during landings.
8. Floor Exercise
The floor exercise is performed by both men and women on a spring-loaded, cushioned surface that allows gymnasts to perform acrobatic moves such as flips, twists, and leaps.
- Floor Mat: A 12m x 12m square padded surface with springboards underneath to provide bounce.
- Spring Flooring: Beneath the floor mat, the springboards help gymnasts gain height and absorb impact when landing.
9. Grips and Hand Guards
To prevent injuries and improve performance, gymnasts often wear grips and hand guards, especially on the uneven bars, parallel bars, and horizontal bar.
- Grips: These are leather straps worn on the hands, providing better grip on bars while reducing friction and preventing blisters or tears.
- Wrist Supports: Some gymnasts use wrist supports to protect against strain during events like pommel horse or vault.
10. Leotards and Apparel
Gymnasts wear leotards designed for freedom of movement and comfort. Leotards are fitted to avoid interference during routines and are made from flexible, breathable materials.
- Leotards: Skin-tight apparel that ensures no loose fabric impedes movement. They are available in various designs and colors and are worn by both male and female gymnasts (though men often wear them with shorts or pants).
- Footwear: Many gymnasts perform barefoot, but some may wear soft-soled shoes or toe guards for additional grip and protection.
Conclusion
The equipment in artistic gymnastics plays a crucial role in both the safety and performance of gymnasts. Each apparatus requires athletes to develop specialized skills, and the precision of the equipment ensures that gymnasts can showcase their abilities with minimal risk. Whether it’s the high-flying horizontal bar or the balance-beam’s intricate routines, the proper equipment is key to the sport’s success and the athletes’ safety.