| Commonly Used Gymnastics Equipment |
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Gymnastics is a delicate sport that requires using various equipment. All the equipment used in gymnastics is carefully manufactured using only specific materials. The equipment also has to suit the needs of people from a wide range of age groups. Following is a description of frequently used gymnastic equipment with details of dimensions set by the International Federation of Gymnastics (IFG).
Balance Beams A balance beam should be 1.25 meters high and 5 meters long and 10 cm wide. In earlier times, the surface of a balance beam was made of polished wood. Since the 1980s, beams have been covered in leather or suede. In addition, they are now also sprung to accommodate the stress of high-difficulty tumbling and dance skills. Parallel Bars The parallel bars are popular gymnastics equipment used only by male gymnasts. It comprises of two bars held at a point above the floor by a metal frame. The bars are manufactured using wood, plastic or synthetic material. The height of the bars is 200 cm which includes about 20 cm landing mats and the length is 350 cm. The distance between the bars should be 42 to 52 cm (adjustable). Horizontal Bar The horizontal bar is manufactured using metal (most often steel). This bar is meant for use by male gymnasts, who generally wear grips for performing exercises on it. The height of the horizontal bar should be 278 cm includes about 20 cm landing mats and the length should be 240 cm. The bar's diameter should be 29 mm. Floor The floor is a specially made exercise surface, which is regarded as equipment in gymnastics. It is utilized by both- males and females. The floor is 12 meters each in length and width and has a safety border of 1 meter. The floor is manufactured by a combination of plywood and springs or rubber foam that make it elastic and reduce the jolt of landing and help a gymnast to achieve height during tumbling. Rings The rings, also known as still rings are used only by male gymnasts, due to their extreme upper-body strength requirements. The rings are suspended 5.75 meters above the floor with a height of 2.75 meters, including the mat. The distance between the two rings is 50 cm and the rings' diameter is 18 cm. Pommel horse The pommel horse is only used by males because of its extreme strength requirements. In the past, it was made using a metal frame that had a wooden main part and a leather cover. Modern pommel horses comprise of a plastic body that is covered using synthetic materials. Its length is 160 cm, width is 35 cm and height is 115 cm, which includes 20 cm of landing mat. The pommels extend 12 cm above the horse structure. Very few shops sell high-quality equipment that is essential for gymnasts who train for competitions. Nowadays, you can also find different online stores that sell gymnastics equipment. This allows you to buy gymnastics equipment in an easier and faster way. Related Articles
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