Ribbon (rhythmic gymnastics)

Ribbon is a component of rhythmic gymnastics.

Contents

The stick

This can be of any colour and made of wood, bamboo, plastic or fibreglass with a maximum diameter of 1cm (2/5") at its widest, a cylindrical or conical shape and should have a length of 50–60cm (20–24") (including the fastening ring). The bottom end of the stick may be covered by an adhesive, anti-slip tape or may have a rubber handle for a maximum length of 10cm (4") at the level of the grip. The top of the stick, where the ribbon will be attached, may consist of:

  1. a supple strap (of string or nylon) held in place by a nylon thread wound round the stick for a maximum 5cm (2").
  2. a metal ring fixed directly onto the stick.
  3. a metal ring (vertical, horizontal or oblique) fixed to the stick by two metal pins held in place by nylon or metallic thread round wound around the stick for the maximum 5cm (2").
  4. a metal ring (fixed, mobile or pivoting) or a supple strap, fixed to a metal tip of no more than 3cm (1.2").
  5. a metal ring fixed by two metal pins held by a metal tip of 3cm long that is lengthened by nylon or metallic thread wound around the stick adding up to a maximum length of 5cm (2").

The Ribbon

The Ribbon is made of satin or another similar material cloth of any colour, it may be multi-coloured and have designs on it. The ribbon itself must be at least 35g (1 oz), 4–6cm (1.6–2.4") in width and for senior category a minimum length of 6m (20') (5m (16.25') for juniors).

The ribbon must be in one piece. The end that is attached to the stick, is doubled for a maximum length of 1m (3'). This is stitched down both sides. At the top, a very thin reinforcement or rows of machine stitching for a maximum length of 5cm is authorized. This extremity may end in a strap, or have an eyelet (a small hole, edged with buttonhole stitch or a metal circle), to permit attaching the ribbon.

The Attachment of the Ribbon to the Stick

The ribbon is fixed to the stick by means of a supple attachment such as thread, nylon cord, or a series of articulated rings. The attachment has a maximum length of 7cm (2.8"), not counting the strap or metal ring at the end of the stick where it will be fastened.

Elements

Compulsory elements for the ribbon include flicks, circles, snakes and spirals, and throws. It requires a high degree of co-ordination to form the spirals and circles as any knots which may accidentally form in the ribbon are penalised and any elements done while there is still a knot in the ribbon acquire additional deductions. During a ribbon routine, large, smooth and flowing movements are looked for.

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