Rhythmic gymnastics is a
sport where
competitors manipulate 5 types of apparatus: rope, hoop, ball,
clubs and ribbon. Acrobatic movements such as flips are forbidden;
instead competitors are rewarded points for leaps, balances,
pivots, flexibility, apparatus handling and artistic effect.
Competition takes place individually or in teams of five. Rhythmic
gymnastics is considered to be less stressful on the body than
other forms of
gymnastics.
Rhythmic gymnastics developed out of 19th century Sweedish and German gymnastic styles and was added to the Summer Olympic Games in 1984. It is primarily performed in Europe
and Asia.