Competitive Program

The Rhythmic Development Program is a competitive program that helps prepare athletes from the beginning stages of rhythmic gymnastics until the time they are ready to make the move to the Elite Program. The Rhythmic Development Program covers the competitive levels 3-8 as well as the pre-competitive beginner level.

Competitive Levels

Rhythmic gymnastics operates through a structured level system designed by USA Gymnastics, the governing body for gymnastics in the country. This system allows gymnasts to progress from beginner levels to elite competition.

Rhythmic gymnastics practices are typically structured with a focus on developing strength, flexibility, and coordination, along with learning and refining skills and routines using the various apparatuses such as hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon, and rope.

Practice Description

Warm-up

Practices usually start with a warm-up that consists of stretching, cardio exercises, and activities that activate the muscles that are used in rhythmic gymnastics.

Apparatus Work

Athletes will typically spend time on each apparatus, working on specific skills and routines that incorporate the apparatus. During this time, coaches may also demonstrate proper technique and provide feedback for improvement.

Dance and Choreography

Rhythmic gymnastics includes elements of dance and choreography, so athletes will spend some time working on specific dance movements and choreography for their routines.

Strength and Conditioning

Athletes will typically spend some time on strength and conditioning exercises that help them build the strength and endurance required to perform well in the sport.

Cool-Down

Practices usually end with a cool-down that includes stretching and exercises to gradually bring the heart rate down and prevent injury.Rhythmic gymnastics practices can range in length depending on the level of competition and the athlete's individual goals.

What is rhythmic gymnastics?

Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport that combines elements of dance, gymnastics, and ballet with the use of handheld apparatus such as a hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon, or rope. It is a sport performed by individuals and groups of athletes who perform precise and choreographed routines set to music while manipulating these apparatuses.

The athletes in rhythmic gymnastics are required to have high levels of flexibility, balance, coordination, and strength. They perform a combination of jumps, balances, pivots, and flexibility movements such as splits, with the use of the apparatus to accentuate their movements and add an element of grace and finesse to their performances.

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The sport is scored by a panel of judges based on level of difficulty, execution, artistic expression, and overall impression. Rhythmic gymnastics athletes compete in individual and team events, and at all levels from grassroots to elite international competitions such as the Olympic Games and World Championships. Rhythmic gymnastics is a beautiful and expressive sport that requires high levels of skill, strength, and dedication.