The international competition order is decided by the FIG. For rhythmic gymnastics the events include: rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. The gymnasts compete in four of the five events each year, designated by the FIG. For this quad, medals are awarded in individual all-around and group. The four events for individual rhythmic in 2011-2012 are hoop, ball, clubs, and ribbon; for group in 2011-2016, ball (five gymnasts) and ribbon (3)/hoop (2). In 2010, the four individual apparatus are rope, ball, clubs and ribbon, and for group, hoop (five gymnasts) and ribbon (3)/rope (2).
Competition area
- Material: carpeting
- Length: 13 m x 13 m (approx. 42.5ft. square)
Specs:
- Material: hemp or synthetic material, knotted at each end
- Length: proportionate to the size of the gymnast
Specs:
- Material: wood or plastic
- Diameter: Interior is 80-90 cm (31.2-35.1 in)
- Weight: 300 grams (10.5 oz) min.
Specs:
- Material: rubber or synthetic material
- Diameter: 18-20 cm (7-7.8 in)
- Weight: 400 grams (14 oz.) min.
Specs:
- Material: wood or synthetic material
- Length: 40-50 cm (15.6-19.5 in.)
- Diameter: 3 cm (1.2 in) max. for head of club
- Weight: 150 grams each (5.25 oz)
Specs:
- Material: stick – wood or synthetic material; Ribbon – satin or similar non-starched material
- Diameter/width: stick – 1 cm (0.39 in); ribbon – 4-6 cm (1.56-2.34 in)
- Length: stick – 50-60 cm (19.5-23.4 in); ribbon – 6 m (6.54 yds.)
- Weight: ribbon, 35 grams (1.225 oz) min.
In the group event, five athletes work together as one cohesive unit. Group is judged on the ability of the athletes to demonstrate mastery of body and apparatus skills in a synchronized, harmonious manner. A group exercise must include difficulties from the same body movement categories that apply to individual competition and characteristic movements for the apparatus. In addition, the group athletes must execute elements involving both large and small exchanges of equipment. The more interaction between the gymnasts, the better the exercise.
Each group must compete with two different routines. The apparatus used in group competition is selected by the FIG. One of the routines is performed with five of the same pieces of apparatus, the other routine is choreographed with mixed equipment.
Group athletes are trained to work as a team. The close interaction of five athletes within a 13 X 13 meter (approx. 42.5 ft. square) area and the many apparatus exchanges that occur during a routine require each athlete to be extremely sensitive to the movements and actions of her teammates. Many routines have been saved by the quick thinking and action of a team member.
Spectators are enthralled and amazed by the beauty, excitement and risk of a group routine.