Tampa Bay Rhythmics

Rhythmic Gymnastics Basics

  • Rope

    The rope is proportionate in length to the gymnast’s height and is knotted at each end. Typical movements are swings, circles, figure-8’s, releases, wrapping around a part of the body, tosses and jumps through the rope.

  • Hoop

    The hoop is similar to a hula hoop, but there are no beads inside and the gymnast decorates it with colored tape to match their leotard. The hoop can be circled, rolled, spun and tossed. A gymnast can pass over or through the hoop. A typical movement is the “boomerang” which is a move that rolls the hoop forward and with a snap of the wrist makes it roll back to the gymnast.

  • Ball

    In the ball exercise, gymnasts roll, throw, bounce, catch and trap the ball. The ball is made of rubber or plastic and comes in various sizes and colors. The gymnast must not “grip” the ball, but instead must show balance and control and a fluid movement of the ball. The ball moves in harmony with the gymnast and should appear to be an extension of the body

  • Clubs

    The clubs are made of plastic or rubber. Gymnasts swing, throw, catch , circle, tap and trap the pair of clubs. Both clubs must be in constant motion. Since there are two clubs, the gymnast must be equally proficient with the right and left hand.

  • Ribbon

    The ribbon is 4.5-6 meters long, depending on the age of the gymnast. The ribbon is attached to a stick made of plastic or fiberglass. The ribbon must be in constant motion showing different patterns, such as spirals, snakes and figure 8”s. The ribbon is also tossed in the air and on the floor.

Competitions

Any gymnast who wishes to participate in competitions must be part of the Tampa Bay Rhythmics Team. Being on the competitive team is strictly optional and is by invitation only. Of course being on the team carries additional responsibilities, costs and commitment, but it also brings lots of rewards including, the excitement of competition, fun being around your friends, goal achievement and self confidence. There are several grading periods during the year where a gymnast can become part of the team.

Gymnastic Levels

Gymnasts are placed in competitive levels according to age, skill, interest, and commitment. Progression to the next competitive level is at the discretion of their coaches. TBR coaches are committed to determining the best level for each gymnast at each stage of her development in the sport. A gymnast will not advance just to move her along or because others in her level have advanced. The ultimate goal of TBR coaches is for each gymnast to reach her full potential in rhythmic and to love and enjoy the sport for a lifetime. In a competition, each level is broken up into age groups, these groups are determined by your daughter's birth year.