Gymnastics Apparatus
Gymnastics is a sport that encompasses various movements aimed at enhancing physical fitness and promoting agility. It hosts several competitive events and entails the use of specific equipment and apparatus. Athletes must master these devices with precision and skill. Notably, there are distinct sets of apparatus tailored for women and men. Below is a concise overview of these devices:
Women’s Gymnastics Apparatus
In women’s gymnastics, four different apparatus are utilized, as detailed below:
- Floor Exercise: Known in English as the “Floor Exercise,” this apparatus serves as a cushioned mat that absorbs impact and features a flexible surface. It allows gymnasts to perform a series of acrobatic and dance movements accompanied by music for a duration not exceeding 90 seconds. Athletes are required to utilize the entire area of the floor during their performance.
- Vault: Also referred to as the vaulting horse, this apparatus is known as “Vault” in English. Constructed from high-strength steel, its surface is designed to evenly distribute the rebound from gymnastic movements. Gymnasts execute a variety of acrobatic flips using this equipment.
- Balance Beam: Called the “Balance Beam” in English, this apparatus is made of aluminum and covered with vinyl, featuring a foam padding on top. It measures 5 meters in length and stands 1.25 meters off the ground. Athletes use the beam for performing various dance movements, balancing on one foot, executing a series of acrobatic flips, and jumping in multiple directions.
- Uneven Bars: Known in English as the “Uneven Bars,” these consist of parallel bars positioned at different heights. Female gymnasts perform continuous swinging movements in both directions, transitioning from the upper to the lower bar while changing their grip each time, handstands, and executing circular flips.
Men’s Gymnastics Apparatus
Men’s gymnastics also involves four main apparatus, which are outlined as follows:
- High Bar: Referred to as the “High Bar” in English, this apparatus is made of high-tensile stainless steel, secured with poles and a double rope system. Gymnasts perform a series of continuous swinging movements both forward and backward, while ensuring their bodies do not touch the bar.
- Parallel Bars: Known as “Parallel Bars” in English, this equipment allows for various swinging movements that require specific techniques. Unlike the women’s version, both bars are positioned at the same height.
- Still Rings: Called “Still Rings” in English, these are made from layers of wood connected by long, twisted ropes and equipped with a shock-absorption system. They are used by athletes to execute several movements and swings that demand strength and balance.
- Pommel Horse: Known in English as the “Pommel Horse,” this apparatus features a metal body covered with high-quality foam and leather, equipped with two rubberized grips. Athletes perform continuous circular movements, ensuring that only their hands make contact with the pommel horse.
- Note: Men may also use the Floor Exercise and Vault apparatus utilized by women, albeit with slightly different rules governing their performances.