This is a process essay, explaining how the construction of a rhythmic gymnastics routine is done.

Essay by fit_bitch_izziHigh School, 11th gradeA+, March 2003

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What we see is not always all there is

Contrary to its appearance, a rhythmic gymnast's routine is very complex. Once one understands the rules and regulations of building such a routine, one will appreciate viewing it much more, seeing not only the beauty of the sequence, but also the hard work that has been put in to make a harmonic, synchronized routine.

A routine is usually between eighty and ninety seconds; it is very difficult to construct a routine within such a small time frame. There are five types of routines: with a rope, with a ball, with a hoop, with clubs and with a ribbon. All five are necessary in order for a gymnast to enter a competition. However, younger gymnasts (under the age of 14) do not play with clubs and ribbon, since more skill is needed for them. There are also two other categories of routines: individual and ensemble.

The former consists of only one gymnast, while the latter consists of five or six, depending on the gymnasts' age.

A routine is constructed eight to nine months before the real competitions begin: usually during the summer, in order for the gymnast to have enough time to practice before the competitions start in the spring. The construction period usually lasts about a week. However, the step before that, choosing the music for the routine, can last up to two weeks. A routine is constructed in the training hall. A training hall is very high (in order for the gymnast to be able to throw the desired object in the air) and must have a carpet of plush material measuring 30m by 35m. This is the area in which the composition takes place.

The first step of building a routine is choosing the music. It should...