Parallel bars

Parallel bars is an apparatus used by male gymnasts in artistic gymnastics. Gymnasts may optionally wear grips when performing a routine on the parallel bars, although this is uncommon.

The apparatus

The apparatus consists of two parallel bars that are held parallel to, and elevated above, the floor by a metal supporting framework. The bars are composed of wood or other material, with an outer coating of wood.^[1] The vertical members of the supporting framework are adjustable so the height of the bars above the floor and distance between the bars can be set optimally for each gymnast.^[2]

Dimensions

• Bar length: 350 centimetres (11.5 ft) ± 1 centimetre (0.39 in)^[2]
• Bar height: 5 centimetres (2.0 in) ± 1 millimetre (0.039 in)^[2]
• Bar width: 4 centimetres (1.6 in) ± 1 millimetre (0.039 in)^[2]
• Height of bar from floor: 200 centimetres (6.6 ft) ± 1 centimetre (0.39 in)^[2]
• Distance between bars: 42 centimetres (17 in) - 52 centimetres (20 in) (adjustable)^[2]

Routines

A routine performed on the parallel bars must include various elements that depend on the gymnast's competitive level. A typical performance will involve swinging skills in a support position (on the hands), a hanging position, and an upper arm position. Also, parallel bar routines often feature a strength or static hold skill . Each routine ends with a dismount from either the ends of the bars or the side of the apparatus.

International level routines

A parallel bar routine should contain at least one element from all element groups:^[3]

• I. Elements in support or through support
• II. Elements starting in upper arm position
• III. Long swings in hang, face on 1 or 2 rails
• IV. Underswings
• V. Dismounts

Scoring and Rules

Deductions are taken for form and exactness of elements performed. There are specific deductions for adjusting hand position in handstand and not controlling swing elements;^[4] swing type elements should momentarily show handstand.^[3]

References

1. ^ "Apparatus Norms" (PDF). FIG. p. II/27. http://www.unorp.br/downloads_blogs/Nomenclatura_dos_aparelhos.pdf. Retrieved 2009-10-20. 
2. ^ ^{a b c d e f} "Apparatus Norms" (PDF). FIG. p. II/28. http://www.unorp.br/downloads_blogs/Nomenclatura_dos_aparelhos.pdf. Retrieved 2009-10-20. 
3. ^ ^{a b} "MAG Code of Points 2009-2012" (PDF). FIG. p. 100. http://figdocs.lx2.sportcentric.com/external/serve.php?document=1205. Retrieved 2009-10-20. 
4. ^ "MAG Code of Points 2009-2012" (PDF). FIG. p. 101. http://figdocs.lx2.sportcentric.com/external/serve.php?document=1205. Retrieved 2009-10-20. 

See also

Parallettes