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Leotards for rhythmic gymnastics vs. competition gymnastics

Posted on 07. Aug, 2009 by Kathe Jones in Gymnastics Wear

Since rhythmic gymnastics and regular gymnastics vary in terms of movements and skills, there are a few differences in what athletes in both sports wear. While they both wear leotards, there can be a few minor differences between them.

There is no difference between the two for practice. In training and practice session, gymnasts can wear whatever they choose. Generally, they prefer sleeveless workout leotards and frequently wear shorts, leggings, T-shirts, tank tops or bicycle shorts. Some gymnastics schools have specific regulation attire, although it is not always the case. When competing, females’ leotards are designed to fit close to the body in order to reduce risk of injury.

In rhythmic gymnastics, gymnasts tend to wear leotards that are showy and costumey. Rhythmic leotards usually have more decoration whereas regular competing leotards have less fancy design and focus more on materials or fabrics that enhance gymnasts’ performance. And since regular gymnasts’ leotards are already showy compared to dancers’ leotards, you can imagine what a rhythmic gymnasts’ leos look like.

In terms of materials, there is no difference. We make our leotards from Silkskyn for comfort and durability, but in the 1970s leotards were typically made from polyester. These two materials allow gymnasts to have more freedom and flexibility when practicing and performing. Today, the making of leotards becomes more elaborate and inventive than ever before. Designers employ a variety of textiles, such as velvet, velour, mesh, metallic fabrics, foils and iridescent hologram fabric when creating a leotard. Leotards can also be decorated with rhinestones and metallic jewels that are heat-set onto the fabric and will not fall or wash off.

For international competitions, regardless of the sport, gymnasts always wear uniforms provided to them by their national gymnastics federation. These garments typically employ the country’s national colors. Normally, there are no restrictions on design. In some cases, gymnasts wear a more traditional national leotard for the team portion of the competition, and are allowed a personal choice of leotard during the all-around and event finals.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Tags: Gymnastics Wear, leotards, rhytmic gymnastics