How to Use the Hoop in Rhythmic Gymnastics

Rhythmic gymnasts show off their talent and flexibility through a variety of techniques. One of the more impressive of these events is the hoop. The gymnast resembles a contortionist as she leaps in a hyper-extended split through the hoop in mid air! This skill requires long hard hours of diligent training to make it look easy and graceful. Many elements with the hoop are demonstrated in competition.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your hoop. The hoop apparatus used in rhythmic gymnastics is 80 to 90 cm on the inside diameter and the minimum weight is 300 g. It is made from either wood or plastic and must be flexible but not flimsy so it won't bend when it is used. Also, the hoop must not vibrate in the air or points are deducted from the individual or group in competition.

    • 2

      Throw and catch. One requirement for hoop is throwing and catching in several different ways to achieve the points towards the ultimate score.

    • 3

      Roll it. Another required movement of the hoop is that it must be rolled over the body of the competitor and/or the floor.

    • 4

      Jump through hoops. Jump through, over and under the hoop to achieve the proper credit from the judges. Trapping and spinning are also required techniques.

    • 5

      Dance the competition away. The explosive expression of each gymnast adds a special touch to the individual or group performance. The hoop routine is acted out to music while complicated swings, spins and rotations make the audience cheer.