A SPORTS ANALYSIS: INDIVIDUAL WOMEN'S RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS | RIO 2016
Pre-Analysis Background Information
For this sports/blog review – analysis, it’d be all about the women's rhythmic group all-around competition at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Specifically being part of a category in gymnastics along with artistic gymnastics and trampolining – all events correlated to the sport occurred from the 6th to 21st of August in the year 2016. For this specific match, there were a total of 10 athletes – coming from different parts of the globe; all competing for a spot in the top as to bring home a medal.
In particular, this review – analysis discusses the following:
▶ Court Dimensions
▶ Equipment
▶ Basic Skills
▶ Technical and Tactical Skills of Each Team
▶ Rules of the Game
▶ How to Officiate
To explain in more detail, the “2016 Summer Olympics” or known officially as the Games of the XXXI Olympiad (commonly known as Rio 2016) was an international multi-sport event held from August 5 to 21 of the year 2016 at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As for the match itself, again, 10 athletes competed.
In more detail: the order of presentation would be this specific order: 1st up would be Margarita Mamun from Russia; 2nd would be Marina Durunda from Azerbaijan; 3rd would be Yana Kudryavtseva from Russia; 4th would be Katsiaryna Halkina from Belarus; 5th would be Kseniya Moustafaeva from France; 6th would be Melitina Staniouta from Belarus; 7th would be Carolina Rodriguez from Spain; 8th would be Son Yeon Jae from South Korea; 9th would be Ganna Rizatdinova from Ukraine, and 10th to present would be Neviana Vladinova from Bulgaria. Specifically, all of the aforesaid athletes showed their great skills and immense passion for rhythmic gymnastics. Though experiencing some problems here and there into their routines – they still ensured to exhibit professionalism and put up a great show for everyone to watch. As there are 4 different apparatuses in the sport, the athletes also took turns, each displaying their routines for the specific apparatus. Then, in those displays of grace and talent – it could be observed how much mastery, intricacy, or detail – the gymnasts have devoted to their craft – of course, seen in all the acrobatic elements they’ve shown whilst in their routine. These considered, the entire match lasted to about almost 3 hours – but because of the aforesaid factors in their performances, there was no boring part in the match; throughout the match's entirety – I was constantly amazed by what the gymnasts had to show – specifically, their skills, individuality, and as well as beauty.
Court Dimensions
Specifically, rhythmic gymnastics has the same performance as Acrobatic Gymnastics. For Rhythmic gymnastics, the apparatus utilized would be the RG performance area. It has a floor area of 13 meters by 13 meters; the height of the hall is 8 meters, and for the height of the hall international-wise – it's from 10 meters to 12 meters. Moreover, the sport of rhythmic gymnastics also requires gymnasts to perform on the floor – the material being carpeting, with other apparatuses: hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon, or room.
As for the Women's rhythmic individual all-around competition at the 2016 Summer Olympics, it was held at the Arena Olímpica do Rio. Its events along with the events for the other categories for gymnastics – took place from the 6th to 21st of August 2016. The Arena Olímpica do Rio or otherwise known as the Jeunesse Arena; is an indoor multi-purpose arena, located in the region of Barra da Tijuca, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The arena has a capacity of 15,430 people for sports and up to 18,768 for concerts.
Equipment
▶ Balls – A common piece of equipment in the sport is a ball. For the sport, the balls are made of rubber or synthetic plastic material. They are often utilized by the gymnasts in their routines to showcase their balance and flow. Specifically, gymnasts could incorporate the following moves with the ball(s): Waves, circles, throws and catches, movement with the ball balanced on the hand, bouncing and rolling the ball on the floor and along with parts of the body. They usually have a diameter of 18 to 20 centimeters and weigh 400 grams.
▶ Clubs – Clubs are another usual piece of equipment in rhythmic gymnastics. They are built by wrapping a thin layer of plastic or a similar material around an insulated thin rod. They usually weigh 150 grams each and have a length of 15.6 to 19.5 inches and have a diameter of 3 centimeters max for the head of the club. In competitions, they are juggled, thrown, tossed, or rolled to and from a variety of body parts – hands, feet, legs, back, etc. They're made of either wood or synthetic material.
▶ Hoops – A hoop could be used in rhythmic gymnastics for a variety of reasons. Though commonly, competitors utilize hoops to spin or twirl them around the arms, hands, legs, or neck, or even throwing them to another member during team routines. Hoops are also used in conjunction with various gymnastics movements like splits and handstands to increase difficulty. They are made out of either wood or plastic material. It weighs 300 grams and has an interior diameter of 80 to 90 inches.
▶ Ribbons – Ribbons are also used in rhythmic gymnastics. Ribbons are made of cloth or similar fabric. They usually are measured to be 4 to 6 meters in length – whilst the attached stick to the ribbon is usually 1 meter long. They are comprised of snakes, spirals, swings, circles, throws and catches, and figure-eight movements. In the end, the ribbon must remain constantly in motion whilst doing routines. Usually, ribbons weigh 35 grams.
Basic Skills
Locomotor Skills
▶ Walking - Both feet move alternately, with one foot always touching the ground or floor; when one foot goes down the other foot comes up and moves forward.
▶ Running - Running is a fast pace motion where both feet briefly leave the ground. Running is performed with the body leaning slightly forward, knees are flexed and lifted, and arms rotate back and forth from the shoulders with a bend at the elbows.
▶ Leaping - Leaping is an elongated step used to cover larger distances or to move over low obstacles.
▶ Jumping - Jumping involves taking off and landing on both feet. The arms move forward with an upswing motion and the body movement combined with the force of the feet helps lift the weight of the body.
▶ Hopping - Hopping involves propelling the body up and down on one foot.
▶ Galloping - When galloping the body faces forward and one-foot leads and the other moves rapidly forward to it.
▶ Sliding - Sliding is similar to the gallop, however, the body moves sideways in a 1-count movement. The leading foot steps to the side, and the other foot follows quickly.
▶ Skipping - Skipping is a series of step-hops done with alternate feet.
Non-Locomotor Skills
▶ Bending - Bending is a movement at a joint.
▶ Swaying - Is a slower controlled movement that occurs when the center of gravity shifts fluidly from side to side.
▶ Swinging - Involves moving body parts like a swinging rope or pendulum. (Arms and Legs)
▶ Turning - Is rotating around the long axis of the body.
▶ Twisting - Is rotating a selected body part around its long axis.
▶ Stretching - Moves body parts away from the body’s center, or moving a joint through a range of motion. Stretching is necessary for increasing and maintaining flexibility.
Skills (with Apparatuses)
▶ Balls: Ball must be large enough so that it just rests in the hand and is controlled by balance.
o Handling the ball: The fingers should be closed and slightly bent, with the ball resting in the palm.
o Throwing the ball: The ball can roll from the fingertips.
o Catching the ball: The ball returns immediately to the palm.
Ball Skills:
- Roll the ball under the legs and around the back while sitting; around the body; down the legs; down the arm; down the legs, then lift the legs and toss the ball off the toes into the air and catch.
- Combine basketball dribbling skills with various body movements; use locomotor skills combined with rhythmic motions.
- Toss and catch the ball in different positions.
- Combine locomotor movements to each toss and catch.
- Use the balls to perform body waves.
- Throw and or bounce the ball in different directions or patterns.
- Make swinging or circular movements with the ball.
- Incorporate various balancing movements such as spirals, curls, and other balances related to gymnastics.
▶ Hoops: The hoop may be manipulated by being held, tossed, or caught in one or both hands using a variety of different grips.
Hoop Skills:
1. Swinging Movements - Requires good alignment between the body and the hula-hoop. Hoops can be swung in a frontal, sagittal, or horizontal plane.
- Swing across the body
- Swing with a body lean
- Swing around the body, switching hands
- Swing at a high-level overhead then at a low level by the floor
2. Spinning Movements - Turning the hoop with both hands or one.
- Spin in front of the body
- Spin high; spin low
- Spin and kick one leg over the hoop
3. Circling Movements - Hoops can be twirled by hand, wrist, arm, leg, or full body.
- Extend the arm in front of the body; Circle on the hand between the thumb and first finger in the frontal plane
- Circle the hoop while swaying in various directions
- Circle the hoop overhead
- Circle the hoop around different parts of the body
4. Tossing and Catching Movements - Toss the hoop in the air with one or both hands, then catch it with one hand between the thumb and index finger.
- Try with one - and two-handed catches
- Toss the hoop at different levels
- Toss the hoop in various directions
- Toss from hand to hand
5. Rolling Movements - Roll the hoop on the floor, in either a forward or backward direction. Or roll it on the body in different ways.
- Roll the hoop and run alongside it trying to keep up
- Roll the hoop and move through it to get to the other side
▶ Ribbons - Ribbons are used to display the rhythmic flow of movement featuring circular, oval, spiral, and wavelike motions.
Ribbon Skills:
1. Swinging Movements - Involves large swinging motions that require the entire body coordination.
- Swing the ribbon forward and backward
- Swing the ribbon across and in front of the body
- Swing ribbon overhead from side to side
- Swing the ribbon upward and catch the end of it
2. Circling Movements - Large circles involve the strength and movement of the whole arm; smaller circles involve movement of the wrist.
- Circle the ribbon at different levels
- Circle the ribbon horizontally, vertically, or diagonally
- Circle the ribbon around various body parts
- Combine dance steps and turns while circling the ribbon
3. Zigzag Movements - Zigzags can be made in the air or on the floor. Use the movement of the wrist.
- Execute the zigzag in the air in front of the body, around, and behind
- Run backward while zigzagging the ribbon in front of the body
- Run forward dragging the ribbon behind the body while zigzagging
4. Spiral Movements - Make spirals either from left to right or right to left.
- Execute spirals around, in front of, or beside the body while performing locomotor dance steps
- Execute spirals while combining various non-locomotor skills
▶ Clubs
- Performances with clubs are fast, showcasing the gymnast’s agility and accuracy, using their hands and wrists.
- Core moves include:
o Circles, when the clubs swing in the same direction,
o and mills, when the clubs swing in opposite directions.
o As is the case with every piece of apparatus, throws require the most skill.
Technical and Tactical Skills of Each Team
Order (Hoop – Ball – Clubs – Ribbon):
HOOP:
1. Margarita Mamun (RUS)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she showed much energy and precision with her turns. In her leaps, she had nice elevation. Though exhibiting tricky movements, she managed to do them finely with intricate handling of the apparatus on her different bodily parts. Her maximum control and clean transitions were amazing.
- Difficulty: 9.550 | Execution: 9.500 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.050
2. Marina Durunda (AZE)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she had started beautifully, though slightly stumbling. The intricacy was present in the succession of moves she had done – 3 turning leaps, spin, roll, and throw. Almost finishing her routine, she skillfully moved across the entire floor area – whilst also carefully executing tricky moves.
- Difficulty: 8.650 | Execution: 8.300 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 16.950
3. Yana Kudryavsteva (RUS)
HOOP: Early on in her hoop performance, she already showed ultimate control in her movements. She then followed by lively moving around the floor area – beautifully executing moves as well. All in all, she had worked so well with her apparatus – moving efficiently with it, whilst almost showcasing difficult tip-top moves.
- Difficulty: 9.700 | Execution: 9.525 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.225
4. Katsiaryna Halkina (BLR)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she started with well-executed combination rotations. She then showed later on – variety – with how well she had worked the hoop along with her different body parts – leg, hips, elbow, around the neck. Though having big throws, she cleanly executed them. Ultimately, she had lovely control.
- Difficulty: 9.000 | Execution: 8.966 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.966
5. Kséniya Moustafaeva (FRA)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she opened with a clean and nice high leap. In line with her music, she managed to show great emotion. Moving on, her leaps had good elevation – though having a little bit of mishandling. She then followed with great balancing. In the end, she finished off exquisitely.
- Difficulty: 8.900 | Execution: 8.800 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.700
6. Melitina Staniouta (BLR)
HOOP: Early on in her hoop performance, she had shown great professionalism and lively movements. Matching to the music, of course – she prioritized showing off a strong choreography – with difficult and large movements. She managed to finish off greatly. All in all, she had exhibited impacting spins, leaps, and throws.
- Difficulty: 8.900 | Execution: 8.800 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.700
7. Carolina Rodríguez (ESP)
HOOP: Early on, she utilized the apparatus excellently in her starting series of turns. Besides that, she was able to execute large throws. For her pivots, they greatly executed with nice usage of the hoop. Almost finishing, she nicely executed back illusion turns – then concluded with a throw before ending.
- Difficulty: 8.750 | Execution: 8.866 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.616
8. Son Yeon-jae (KOR)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she started nicely with a large throw. Moving further, she had exhibited immense control over her movements. Especially, her throws shone through her routine. All in all, she had managed to utilize the apparatus well – considering her different body parts – whilst having excellent positioning.
- Difficulty: 9.150 | Execution: 9.066 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.216
9. Ganna Rizatdinova (UKR)
HOOP: Early on in her hoop performance, she showed ultimate control and beautiful pivots. She then followed with great spins – whilst nicely utilizing her apparatus. Moving through the floor area, she had executed complicated yet magnificent movements – all leading to a great ending. All in all, she had great shapes.
- Difficulty: 9.100 | Execution: 9.100 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.200
10. Neviana Vladinova (BUL)
HOOP: For her hoop performance, she showed great control over her movements and as well with how she utilized the apparatus. Her choreography capitalized on how exquisite the music was. Her throws then had great technique – having good height. And for her finish, she concluded her performance off beautifully.
- Difficulty: 9.050 | Execution: 8.833 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.883
BALL:
1. Margarita Mamun (RUS)
BALL: For her ball performance, she had great control over the ball – strongly utilizing it to her capacity – like the ball is an extension of her body. Stretching across the floor area, she had managed to show her immense flexibility and skill. All in all, her movements were smooth and clean.
- Difficulty: 9.650 | Execution: 9.500 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.150
2. Marina Durunda (AZE)
BALL: For her ball performance, she started with a lively performance – whilst managing to maintain great shape with her movements along with the ball. She then followed through with large yet strong movements – incorporating great direction as well – leading to a nice finish – though experiencing some problems because of complications.
- Difficulty: 8.775 | Execution: 8.766 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.541
3. Yana Kudryavsteva (RUS)
BALL: For her ball performance, she chose to start on an elegant route. As she showcased her elements, the mastery of them was clear. Though, as the music changed tempo, she had adjusted – and showed off a lively performance – showcasing great usage of the ball and variety in her movements.
- Difficulty: 9.650 | Execution: 9.600 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.250
4. Katsiaryna Halkina (BLR)
BALL: For her ball performance, she had initially shown great balance. As for her control over the ball, she had managed to showcase how much control she had – with all the clean and accurately executed elements she had exhibited throughout her routine – all leading to the finish – ultimately doing quite good.
- Difficulty: 9.000 | Execution: 8.966 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.966
5. Kséniya Moustafaeva (FRA)
BALL: For her ball performance, she had chosen dynamic music; going along with it, she executed strong moves. Early on, she had already showcased good elevation. Slightly losing control, the ball slightly went astray. All in all, she mostly had shown great control over the apparatus in her spirited performance.
- Difficulty: 8.650 | Execution: 8.233 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 16.883
6. Melitina Staniouta (BLR)
BALL: For her ball performance, she showed an elegant performance – executing clean and beautiful moves whilst prioritizing great control. Almost the end – she was able to maintain the great skill she showed from the start until the end. All in all, she had great balance and perfect harmony with the apparatus.
- Difficulty: 9.050 | Execution: 9.200 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.250
7. Carolina Rodríguez (ESP)
BALL: For her ball performance, she initially showed an exotic performance. In more detail, she showcased great form with her movements. Moving on, she greatly and unfailingly exhibited her elements. Truly, she presented consistent results – judging from her hoop performance. She showed how much she deserves to be on top.
- Difficulty: 8.750 | Execution: 8.933 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.683
8. Son Yeon-jae (KOR)
BALL: For her ball performance, she showed clean movements and as well as preciseness in her feet/arm placements – all making for a beautiful performance. Changing the pace, she presented livelier moves whilst utilizing the apparatus. Moving on to her finishing moment, her elegance came through – she did quite well.
- Difficulty: 9.200 | Execution: 9.066 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.266
9. Ganna Rizatdinova (UKR)
BALL: For her ball performance, she had shown a rhythmic performance. Initially, the cleanliness and accuracy in her movements shone through. Her pivots also had excellent technique. Moving on, for her spins, she did great. As for her transitions – there were all seamless – all ultimately leading to a wowing finish.
- Difficulty: 9.250 | Execution: 9.200 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.450
10. Neviana Vladinova (BUL)
BALL: For her ball performance, she had shown a dynamic performance. Her movements were energetic – though that being the case, she still accurately executed her routine without much fail. All in all, her professionalism and great skill shone through; as well as her flexibility and strength with her executed jumps.
- Difficulty: 9.050 | Execution: 8.700 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.750
CLUBS:
1. Margarita Mamun (RUS)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showed tricky handling and movements with the clubs; though really, she had utilized them greatly and properly. She was able to show a dynamic choreography – having great control over her movements and as well as overall balance. Ultimately, her spins and leaps were executed amazingly.
- Difficulty: 9.550 | Execution: 9.500 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.050
2. Marina Durunda (AZE)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she easily navigated along the floor area ensuring the elements of her routine are perfectly executed with the apparatus. Moving on, her artistic interpretations of her chosen music was spot-on as well – making for a great performance. Ultimately, she was able to end her routine nicely.
- Difficulty: 8.950 | Execution: 8.766 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.716
3. Yana Kudryavsteva (RUS)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she had initially shown seamless transitions into the floor – having maximum control over her positions and her apparatus too. Having large jumps and moves – she was able to make for a good performance, though unfortunately, at the last bit – she slightly lost control over one club.
- Difficulty: 8.700 | Execution: 9.183 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.883
4. Katsiaryna Halkina (BLR)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showed a graceful performance – whilst moving across the entire floor area. As for her turns and spins – she had done them wonderfully. She had presented a good performance; she had also used the apparatus nicely – though, at times, she was asymmetrical in using both clubs.
- Difficulty: 8.750 | Execution: 8.900 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.650
5. Kséniya Moustafaeva (FRA)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased a very unique and expression-filled performance – with all the paired lively movements. As for her utilization of the clubs – at times she had used them symmetrically and asymmetrically. Unfortunately, in her succession of turns – she had dropped her apparatus; though still concluding it nicely.
- Difficulty: 8.650 | Execution: 8.266 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 16.916
6. Melitina Staniouta (BLR)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased a classical performance. Though unfortunately, she had some stumbles, drops, or problems here and there in her routine. In the end, she was able to follow through with great throws and movements across the floor. All in all, she still ended her performance nicely.
- Difficulty: 8.400 | Execution: 8.233 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 16.633
7. Carolina Rodríguez (ESP)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased an energetic performance – going along with her music of choice. For her flips and throws – it was clear how she had mastered her synchronization. As for her circles and turns – she had properly done them – that goes for her usage of the apparatus too.
- Difficulty: 8.800 | Execution: 8.900 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.700
8. Son Yeon-Jae (KOR)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased a great performance – opening with strong pivots and circles. As for her throws – she also had done them nicely. Making for a lively performance – she still had ensured to not lose control over her apparatus. In the end, she had presented an excellent performance.
- Difficulty: 9.200 | Execution: 9.100 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.300
9. Ganna Rizatdinova (UKR)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased her great skills – with how well she managed the tricky movements. For her pivots, spins, and throws – she had done them nicely; the professionalism and skill were ultimately clear. All in all, she held her apparatus well throughout – making for a beautiful performance.
- Difficulty: 9.250 | Execution: 9.200 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.450
10. Neviana Vladinova (BUL)
CLUBS: For her clubs performance, she showcased an exotic yet ecstatic performance. With her large throws and series of turns – she had executed them well – all whilst maintaining good balance. She also made sure to move all across the entire floor area – having good coverage whilst showing good apparatus handling.
- Difficulty: 9.150 | Execution: 8.900 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.050
RIBBON:
1. Margarita Mamun (RUS)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she initially showed a clean and beautiful performance – with her positions and proper handling of the apparatus itself. She had managed to impress in the technical aspects of her performance – with the perfect executions of her chosen movements – all making for an ultimately breathtaking final performance.
- Difficulty: 9.700 | Execution: 9.533 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.233
2. Marina Durunda (AZE)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased great elevation in her starting leaps. Executing great throws – she was able to work well with the apparatus. Changing to a fast pace – she swiftly executed her movements. For her series of pivots that she had done afterward, she had done them amazingly.
- Difficulty: 8.775 | Execution: 8.766 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.541
3. Yana Kudryavsteva (RUS)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a flowing and ethereal performance. With how she utilized the apparatus whilst moving across the floor – she utilized it professionally and excellently that. So far, as she hasn't committed any mistakes – it led up to an excellent and elegant finish for her performance.
- Difficulty: 9.650 | Execution: 9.600 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 19.250
4. Katsiaryna Halkina (BLR)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a colorful and bright performance. Her amazing execution of the necessary elements – made for a good performance. Moreover, she had amazing control over her body and her apparatus. As a final touch, she was able to end her ribbon performance beautifully.
- Difficulty: 8.650 | Execution: 8.700 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.350
5. Kséniya Moustafaeva (FRA)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a dazzling and dramatic performance. As for the early parts, she had utilized the ribbon nicely along with a nice set of elements necessary to the performance as well. Though, at some points, she had minimal errors – like with the shortage in her throws.
- Difficulty: 8.175 | Execution: 8.566 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 16.741
6. Melitina Staniouta (BLR)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased an elegant and classical performance. Largely throwing the ribbon across the field, she almost got it through the line – though fortunately, she was able to save it – increasing the momentum in her performance. With her succeeding movements across the field – they were well executed.
- Difficulty: 8.850 | Execution: 9.200 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.050
7. Carolina Rodríguez (ESP)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a truly beautiful and graceful performance – having good control over her apparatus in her throws. Moving through the field, she was able to finely execute her techniques with her apparatus – making for a beautiful performance. However, at one point, she, unfortunately, dropped her ribbon.
- Difficulty: 8.500 | Execution: 8.500 | Penalties: -0.050 | Score: 16.950
8. Son Yeon-Jae (KOR)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased an elegant exquisite performance – having executed beautiful leaps around the field with her apparatus. For her executed elements – she had done them without error – making it clear how skilled she is. Moving on, into her finishing part – she had concluded her performance nicely.
- Difficulty: 9.150 | Execution: 8.966 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.116
9. Ganna Rizatdinova (UKR)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a nice performance. Largely throwing her ribbon across the field – gave her performance a nice touch. Specifically, it could be noticed how she had precision and control over her movements. – making for a lovely routine overall. In the end, she executed an amazing performance.
- Difficulty: 9.250 | Execution: 9.233 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 18.483
10. Neviana Vladinova (BUL)
RIBBON: For her ribbon performance, she showcased a festive performance. With how she executed her acrobatic elements – made for a lively performance. With her executed elements – she paired it as well with great usage of the apparatus. All in all, with her energetic motions – it fit the music perfectly.
- Difficulty: 8.550 | Execution: 8.500 | Penalties: -0.000 | Score: 17.050
Rules of the Game
▶ Rhythmic gymnastics combines ballet, dance, and acrobatics with expressive movement and the manipulation of apparatuses such as the ball, clubs, hoop, ribbon, and rope. This sport is ideal for developing flexibility, strength, as well as body coordination. It stems from various dance styles and exercise regimes that share the common idea of expressive movement as a tool for exercise.
▶ Individual program - An athlete will manipulate only one of these five apparatuses at a time - rope, hoop, ball, clubs, and ribbon. One apparatus is rotated out of contention every two years, with the gymnast required to compete on the remaining four events.
▶ Group program - Consists of five gymnasts competing in two different routines. In one routine, all of the athletes use the same apparatus. In the second routine, the gymnasts use two different pieces of equipment.
▶ Music and Choreography - All routines must be performed with music, with only short pauses of music allowed. The choreography must center around a theme that is developed from beginning to end using a variety of body movements and the handling of apparatuses.
Basic Rules:
→ Gymnasts compete with 4 different apparatuses in individual competition:
o Hoop
o Ball
o Clubs
o Ribbon
→ The apparatuses must remain in motion throughout the routine’s duration.
→ Gymnasts are judged on:
o Jumps and leaps
o Throws
o Balances
o Turns
o Flexibility
o Body and Apparatus Difficulty
→ The judges look out for:
o Originality
o Artistry
o Finesse
o Personal Style
→ Deductions are caused because of:
o Losing control of the apparatus
o Dropping the apparatus
o Apparatus goes out of bounds
→ There is no maximum difficulty score.
→ The maximum execution score though is 10.0 points.
→ In Individual All-Around Competition
o The highest combined score with the 4 apparatuses wins.
→ For group competitions:
→ Gymnasts perform 2 different routines
→ Groups are judged on:
o Exchange of apparatus
o Collaboration
o Harmony between gymnasts
o Body and apparatus difficulty
→ There is no maximum difficulty score.
→ The maximum execution score though is 10.0 points.
→ In Group All-Around Competition
o The highest combined score with 2 routines wins.
Detailed Rules for Movements:
▶ Leaps and jumps
- All leaps and jumps must be of a good height, have a clear shape, and good amplitude.
- All leaps with the back arched must have the head in contact with the leg.
▶ Balances
- All balances must be performed on the toes or the knee. These must be held clearly and have a good, fixed shape.
▶ Pivots
- All pivot combinations must be performed entirely on the toes without heel support.
→ Officials must have the appropriate certification for the level of competition being judged. Note: For State and Regional Level 9/10 competitions, judges assigned to judge execution may carry a Level 7/8 rating.
→ Minimum number of Officials per panel when two alternating judging panels are used:
1. Level 3 - One judge per gymnast.
2. Level 4 – One or two judges per panel for local meets. Two judges per panel for state and regional meets. When two judges are used one will act as head judge and the scores will be averaged.
3. Level 5&6 - One or two judges per panel for local meets. Two judges per panel for state and regional meets. When two judges are used one will act as head judge and the scores will be averaged.
4. Level 7/8 - Three to six judges per panel for local meets. Two for Difficulty, Two for Artistry, Two for Execution, for State & Regional meets, with one judge acting as head judge for all sanctioned meets. Contact Rhythmic Zone Technical Chair for any exceptions.
5. Group Competition
a. At all local and State meets, a minimum of two (2) judges (one per panel) must be used.
b. At the Regional Championships, a minimum of four (4) judges (two per panel) must be used.
6. Level 9 and 10
a. For State and Regional competitions please contact your Regional Director or Regional Judges Coordinator for information about judging panels and scoring formulas.
- The Regional Judging Coordinator will assign the highest-rated judge to serve as meet referee.
- A Meet Referee is recommended at Regional Championships for all levels.
- It is possible to use only one panel of judges if the meet entry is small.
- Once an official or panel has begun to judge an event, there may be no substitutions of officials or panels until the entire event is completed
How to Officiate
▶ Meet Referee
1. Conducts the judge's education meeting before the event,
2. Makes the panel assignments or conducts a draw,
3. Has ultimate control over technical decisions,
4. Judges every routine within human possibility,
5. Can question a panel score, even if the judges are in range if she feels it is not appropriate,
6. Can call a conference of either judging panel, can decide to go to the base score,
7. Keeps track (with the help of an assigned volunteer secretary) of all scores and rankings,
8. Determines the number of sessions in association with the meet director,
9. Makes sure the timers and line judges are knowledgeable about the rules and their function,
10. Serves as the spokesperson for the judging panels to the organizing host and the participants,
11. Makes sure the Head Judges review the official score sheets before signing them,
12. Mediates all professional disagreements, and has the final response,
13. Is responsible for any media involvement concerning the judges,
14. Respond to any written inquires before a session has ended,
▶ Head Judge
1. Attends pre-competition education session,
2. Makes sure judges scores are within the proper range,
3. Requests the MR to call a conference if there is a disagreement,
4. Keeps track of rank order for assigned events,
5. Checks and signs the official score sheets at the end of the competition.
▶ Acting Judges
1. Attends pre-competition education session,
2. Judges each routine assigned with undivided attention.
▶ Line Judges - A Line Judge determines if the athlete and the apparatus are within the boundaries of the field of play. There are 2 line judges for each individual routine, and you will be responsible for the two lines that are in your “corner” of the carpet. For national-level group routines, there may be 4 line judges. Each judge is responsible for the line to their right. The red line denotes the warning area, and if the athlete or their apparatus touches the line they are still in bounds. If any part of the athlete's body and/or apparatus touches the floor outside of the red line, then she is out of bounds and you immediately hold up one flag high in the air for a few seconds. If both the apparatus and gymnast touch the floor outside of the red line, then immediately hold up both flags high in the air for a couple of seconds. He/she should never attempt to touch or retrieve an apparatus for a gymnast.
▶ Timers - Each timer requires a stopwatch that indicates the minutes, seconds, and milliseconds, a rotation order, timer judge chits, and a pen. He/she should start the timer when the gymnast starts moving (or the first gymnast in the group), and stop the timer when the gymnast stops moving (or the last gymnast in the group). Record the time to the millisecond on the rotation order. If the routine is over or less than the required time (times to be provided by the Meet Director), then also complete the Timer Judge Chit.
▶ Apparatus Judge - Every apparatus will be checked during the Warm-Up before the start of the competition rotation. r. If there is a fault with the apparatus measurement, the apparatus judge will show the coach, so the athlete has time to change the apparatus. If a coach/athlete refuses to change the apparatus, the Apparatus Judge will retain the piece of apparatus, complete the judge chit and send it to the JA immediately. The apparatus must be retained until the JA has completed the verification.
Over-all Game Results Review
Overall, as the entire match was composed of 4 different routines for each apparatus – the order is (1) Hoop, (2) Ball, (3) Clubs, (4) Ribbon; each gymnast had her turn in presenting herself onto the field – whilst of course maintaining and prioritizing to exhibit preciseness, accuracy, beauty, and as well as elegance into the routine as to score big points. Additionally, with all the acrobatic elements and movements while also maintaining to gain proper control over the certain apparatus; definitely, it could be noticed how they all were pretty talented and skilled in the field – but, with there being more skilled presenters and presenters who had committed no errors, of course, there only remained a few who had executed better than everyone else and were deserving to receive a medal. Most notably, the 10 women who had competed came from countries such as Russia, France, South Korea, Belarus, etc.
All in all, in terms of places and statistics; these are the standings from 1st to 10th place in this match. To note, the scores are the combination of all 4 sub-scores earned by the gymnasts from each presentation of the apparatus. So, to start, for 1st place it would be Margarita Mamun from Russia with a total score of 76.483. Placing 2nd would then be Mamun’s fellow Russian with a total score of 75.608. Next for 3rd place would be Ganna Rizatdinova from Ukraine with a score of 73.585. 4th place would then be taken by Son Yeon Jae, the South Korean, who gained a score of 72.898. In 5th place would then be Melitina Staniouta from Belarus with a score of 71.133. Moving on, in 6th place would be Katsiaryna Halkina, same with Staniouta who’s from Belarus; who has a score of 70.932. 7th place would be Neviana Vladinova from Bulgaria with a score of 70.733. 8th place is then Carolina Rodriguez with a score of 69.949. in 9th place would then be Marina Durunda with a score of 69.748. and in the last place of 10th would be Kseniya Moustafeva from France with a score of 68.240. In total, if we refer to the top three, Mamun being the 1st, Kudryavtseva in 2nd, and Rizatdinova in 3rd; basing on their performances – they were deserving to gain the places they're in. Not only did they exhibit superb skills, utilize great techniques, pull of difficult move, sand as well as showed their technical prowess – but they were able to as well interpret the needed emotion as to properly convey their routine's entirety to the judges and as well as to the public – which is of course ultimately important in the sport.
Photo Credits
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/Rio_2016_Olympic_artistic_gymnastics_qualification_men_%2828520770833%29.jpg/220px-Rio_2016_Olympic_artistic_gymnastics_qualification_men_%2828520770833%29.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f7/8d/4a/f78d4a8d1fae2e4e041581963562a642.png
http://media.specialolympics.org/soi/files/sports/Gymnastics_Rhythmic/etqsjqjw/Rhythmic.pdf
https://www.rookieroad.com/gymnastics/rhythmic-gymnastics-equipment-list/#rhythmic-gymnastics
https://www.olympicchannel.com/en/stories/news/detail/the-moves-of-rhythmic-gymnastics/
References
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Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. (2019, July 12). Gymnastics. Retrieved from Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/sport-and-recreation/sports-dimensions-guide/gymnastics
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Gymnastics Canada. (2018, February). Rhythmic Gymnastics Judges Rules and Regulations. Retrieved from Gymnastics Canada: http://gymcan.org/uploads/files_files/GCG_Judges%20Rules%20and%20Regulations_EN_FINAL.pdf
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Singapore Sports Council. (2021). Rhythmic gymnastics apparatuses and rules. Retrieved from ActiveSG: https://www.myactivesg.com/Sports/Gymnastics/How-To-Play/Gymnastics-for-Beginners/Rhythmic-gymnastics-apparatuses-and-rules#:~:text=The%20gymnast%20must%20keep%20the%20ribbon%20in%20motion%20throughout%20the%20entire%20routine.&text=All%20leaps%20and%20ju
USA Gymnastics. (2020, June 15). Part V. Retrieved from USA Gymnastics: https://usagym.org/PDFs/Rhythmic/Rules/Part_V_Section_1.pdf
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USA Gymnastics. (2021). Rhythmic Gymnastics Events & Equipment Descriptions. Retrieved from USA Gymnastics: https://usagym.org/pages/gymnastics101/rhythmic/events.html
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Wikipedia. (2021, February 22). Rhythmic gymnastics. Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythmic_gymnastics