The seemingly secret sport in America: rhythmic gymnastics.
“The Ribbon Sport” is what most people in the states know rhythmic gymnastics as. Rhythmic gymnastics is a combination of dynamic body exercise and apparatus work all put together under music in a 1.5 minute long routine for individual or 2.5 minute long routine for group. The apparatus for the routines consists of either floor, rope, hoop, ball, clubs, or ribbon. Out of all, the ribbon is the most captivating to work with and watch. It can be seen in popular media like Taylor Swift’s music video for “Shake it Off”. Though most took no notice of the fact that it was a representation of a wonderful and unique sport, the ribbon is a clear figure for those who do know it. It is also one of the hardest apparatuses to wield; combining beauty and strength in a single piece of fabric. Rhythmic gymnastics merges dynamic physical exercise with artistic apparatus work, creating a captivating and challenging sport that emphasizes continuous motion, expressive performance, and relentless strength.
This movement is known as “mills” and is taught as a basic skill to all beginner rhythmic gymnasts. The apparatus above, called clubs, is required to be rotating almost at all times.
Never-ending motion is a foundation concept of rhythmic gymnastics. In the short routines, gymnasts have to maintain explosive movements with their body and apparatus in tandem. While it may seem easy due to lack of exposure, the sport takes lots of stamina and practice to be able to perform at elite levels.
Eventually, the movement appears fluid and effortless. This talent is most visibly demonstrated with the ball. Rolling a glimmering sphere across different parts of the body creates almost an illusion of magic. The magic component of the sport carries into the sheer nature of sports culture in how rhythmic gymnastics is viewed. Because it is not as popular or as similar as other sports, it is almost unheard of both among other athletes and non-athletes.
A main category that gymnasts are scored on in competitions is expression. The only way that gymnasts are able to express themselves in their routines is through their actions and expression of their faces. Facial expressions play an important role in communicating stories, showing emotions, and highlighting accents to make the routines more engaging, adding depth and nuance to the performances.
Feet are often viewed as something lowly and unappealing. But the feet of rhythmic gymnasts serve as one of the most important parts of their body. They act as a foundation for all that they do. Almost every move in rhythmic gymnastics is done on relevé, pictured above. Along with keeping the whole body up on just the toes, the feet are also used to push gymnasts up into the air to perform stunning leaps and jumps. Just looking at the feet, it is clear how much strength and power and resilience is needed in the sport. Together with expression, grace, and magic-like movements, rhythmic gymnastics cannot be done without striking expression, constant motion, and incredible strength.