GYMNASTICS

Gymnastics traces its roots back to ancient Greece, where it was an integral
part of physical education and training. Here are some intriguing historical
facts:
1. Ancient Greece:
o Sparta and Athens were the epicentres of early gymnastics.
o Young men exercised and trained without clothing, which is why
the term “gymnastics” comes from the Greek verb γυμνάζω
(gumnázō), meaning “to train naked or nude.”
o Physical fitness was highly valued in both men and women during
this time.
2. Evolution:
o Gymnastics evolved from exercises used by the ancient Greeks,
including skills for mounting and dismounting horses.
o Circus performances also contributed to the development of
gymnastics skills.
o Friedrich Ludwig Jahn, known as the “father of gymnastics,”
played a significant role in shaping modern gymnastics.
3. Artistic Gymnastics:
o The most common form of competitive gymnastics today
is artistic gymnastics (AG).
o For women (WAG), the events include floor, vault, uneven bars,
and beam.
o For men (MAG), the events comprise floor, vault, rings, pommel
horse, parallel bars, and horizontal bar.
4. Global Governing Body:
o The Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) oversees
gymnastics competitions worldwide.
o FIG governs eight sports, including artistic gymnastics, rhythmic
gymnastics, and trampolining.
o Disciplines not recognized by FIG include wheel gymnastics,
aesthetic group gymnastics, TeamGym, and mallakhamba.

Today, gymnastics continues to captivate audiences with its blend of strength,

flexibility, artistry, and endurance. From ancient Greece to the modern Olympic

Games, it remains a testament to human physical achievement. 🌟