Rhythmic gymnastics combines dance, flexibility and apparatus handling in routines performed to music. It is one of the most demanding disciplines in the sport: gymnasts must perform extreme body elements while keeping an apparatus moving and under control at all times.
Individuals and groups
Individual gymnasts perform separate routines with each apparatus of the season. Groups of five perform two routines, one with five of the same apparatus and one with a mix of two types. Group routines are built on exchanges, where gymnasts throw apparatus to one another, and collaborations, where they work together physically.
The apparatus
Rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon each have their own character. Our apparatus guide explains them in detail.
How routines are judged
Panels assess difficulty (body difficulties and apparatus elements, including risk elements with throws and rotations), artistry and technical execution. Drops are costly, and losing the apparatus off the carpet is worse.
Europe at the centre
Rhythmic gymnastics grew up in Europe, and European gymnasts have won most of the sport's major titles. Russia, Bulgaria, Italy, Ukraine, Belarus, Israel and Spain all have strong traditions. Bulgaria's group won Olympic gold in Tokyo, and Israel's Linoy Ashram won the individual title.
In the archive
Our event archive includes the 2019 European Championships in Baku, where Dina and Arina Averina led the qualification rankings, and earlier editions in Budapest and Guadalajara.
