rítmica

Rhythmic gymnastics, known in Spanish as gimnástica rítmica, is a sport that blends ballet, dance, and gymnastics with the manipulation of an apparatus. Competitors perform choreographed routines on a floor to music, emphasizing grace, flexibility, and body control. International competition is dominated by women, though male participation occurs in some countries and exhibitions.

The standard apparatus in rhythmic gymnastics are rope, hoop, ball, clubs, and ribbon. In individual events, gymnasts perform a routine centered on a single apparatus; in group events, teams of five gymnasts coordinate routines that may involve exchanges of apparatus. Routines combine leaps, balances, turns, throws, and catches with apparatus handling to create a cohesive artistic presentation.

Rhythmic gymnastics is governed by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG). Major competitions include the Olympic Games, the World Championships, and the World Cup series, along with continental championships. Scoring uses a Code of Points that combines difficulty and execution, with penalties and deductions for errors. The code is periodically updated to reflect evolving techniques and artistry.

History: The sport emerged in Europe in the mid-20th century and was codified by FIG. It debuted as an Olympic discipline for women in 1984, and group routines were added later. Today it is practiced worldwide, with routine development and judging standards set at the international level.