Rhythmic gymnastics equipment and apparatus choose and care

BALL

• For the gymnasts under 7 years-old and under 4’5” we recommend 15cm size balls.  Gymnasts over 10 should be practicing and competing with the standard size balls.
• Attention, rhythmic gymnastics balls should only be used on FIG approved Rhythmic Gymnastics carpets!
• Ball needs to be kept in a soft ball cover to prevent it from getting scratches. During the winter, we recommend keeping it in worm cover, because the “compression-expansion” of air inside the ball may damage the outer coating.
• Wash the ball in the warm water by using the mild mix of a detergent and a soft cloth.  Completely dry it with the soft towel.

CLUBS

• Generally, the length of clubs should not exceed the distance between the gymnast’s wrist and shoulder. 
• Keep your clubs in the cover or at least, to avoid chipping, cover the tips of the clubs. 

HOOP

• The diameter of the hoop is determined by the height of the gymnast and not by her age.
• Generally, the diameter of the hoop should be between gymnast’s hips and waist.  Hoop measurements are the measurements of the interior diameter.
• Please see the table below:
• Height = Hoop Diameter, cm
  • Up to 4’5” - 70cm
  • 4’5” – 4’11” - 75cm
  • 4’11” – 5’3” - 81cm
  • 5’3” – 5’7” - 83/85cm
  • 5’7” and Up - 87/89cm

RIBBON

• Generally, the length of the ribbon depends on the age of the gymnast.  Please see the table below:
• Age = Length of the Ribbon
  • 14 y/o and older = 6m
  • 9-14 y/o = 5m
  • 9 y/o and younger = 4m

• To maintain your ribbons' shape, always keep them in the winders. 
• Ribbon could be either hand washed or washed in the machine on a “Gentle” cycle, in the warm water (up to 85° F). Just add a small portion of the detergent. No bleaching.  This way the ribbon won’t lose its color.

ROPES

• In general, most of the ropes in our store are standard three meters long.
• Usually, the length of the rope is too big thus it needs to be adjusted.  
• The rope needs to be cut on both sides (so that the center of the rope is not moved) and tied with two similarly sized knots, on both sides.
• To determine the size - stand on the rope, the knots should be between your underarms and shoulders.
•  A rope made out of nylon could be either hand washed or washed in the machine on a “Gentle” cycle, in the warm water (up to 85° F).  Just add a small portion of the detergent.  No bleaching.  This way the rope won’t lose its color.

STICK

• In general, when the gymnast holds the ribbon stick down to her side, it should not touch the floor. 
• Always keep your stick in the cover/case.  Never carry it in your bag or backpack.  
• If the swivel is broken – immediately replace it.