Gymnastics is a challenging sport that requires strength, flexibility, and agility to move the body using complicated maneuvers. The gymnastics practiced today evolved from a form of exercise invented by the ancient Greeks intended for military training. Today, gymnastics is a popular sport to watch at the Olympics and is practiced all over the world.

Gymnastics Origins

The word “gymnastics” comes from the Greek work “gymnos,” meaning “to train” or “to exercise.” It originally involved feats such as running, swimming, and weightlifting and was performed by both men and women. Gymnastics returned as a mode of formal physical instruction in Prussia in the late 18th century. It evolved into a modern sport for men around the early 19th century in Germany with the invention of the balance beam, parallel bars, and other equipment. The Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG) was founded in the late 19th century, and the sport was first included as an event in the modern Olympics in 1896.

Gymnastics Today

Women’s gymnastics was first introduced to the Olympics in 1936, with separate events added in 1952. Today, there are six events for men: rings, parallel bars, horizontal bar, pommel horse, vault, and floor exercise. Women compete in four events: vault, balance beam, uneven bars, and floor exercise. Gymnastics is one of the most watched Olympic sports today.

The level of difficulty in competitive gymnastics has increased significantly since its modern Olympic debut, with jumps, flips, and heights breaking new records every four years. To get the best gymnastics training, academies like Top Flight Gymnastics in Columbia, MD, offer tumbling classes, as well as competitive training for students of all ages and abilities. Call them at (410) 992-1600 or visit their website to learn more about their recreational classes and competitive teams.