Gymnastics has unique programs for men and women. While they share events, there are differences in each designed to emphasize certain skills and abilities. If your child is interested in the sport, you might be curious about what sort of activities they’ll be performing, especially if they’re on the competitive track. The following guide will explain what you need to know. 

Women’s Gymnastics vs. Men’s

Women’s

In overall competition, women share the same format as men, with teams of four. In women’s gymnastics, there are four events: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercises. With vaulting, there are few differences for men and women, though men sometimes perform more technically complex vaults and use a higher vaulting table. Uneven bars are solely for women gymnasts. With floor exercises, women perform routines set to music. Leaps and jumps are core parts of the scoring system, as is choreography. Although all women’s events require incredible balance, endurance, and power, their events are also intended to showcase artistry and performance.  

Men’s

Men’s gymnastics has six events, performed in the following order: floor exercises, pommel horse, still rings, vault, parallel bars, and high bar. Floor exercises focus on muscular intensity rather than poise. Men also don’t perform to music, and there are no dance moves. Rather than competing on sets of uneven bars, men use parallel bars and a high bar, the latter being 9 feet from the floor. The rings especially emphasize upper body strength, since they must hold positions for extended periods. Scoring for men is less reliant on expressiveness. 

Gymnastics has a long, rich history and is rewarding for children of all genders. If your child is ready to enter the exciting world of this sport, turn to The Victors Gymnastics. This Rochester, NY, gym has maintained a tradition of excellence since 1999 and welcomes students of every age. Their 17,000 sq. ft. facility includes state-of-the-art equipment, and their gymnastics training staff members take every measure to help students excel. Call (585) 663-4810 to speak with a representative. Connect on Facebook for news and updates and explore their facilities further online

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