About Calisthenics
The word Calisthenics comes from the Greek words 'kallos'
for beauty and 'thenos' for strength.
Calisthenics is a team sport consisting of several different
types of routines or disciplines. A team of participants will learn
various routines, about 2-4 minutes in duration, with the aim of
performing on stage at either a competition or concert.
The different disciplines incorporate elements of dance,
gymnastics, ballet, marching, apparatus technique (rods and clubs),
acting and singing. Whilst primarily a team sport, there is also
the opportunity to participate in solo and duo items. Pupils learn
4-6 routines concurrently throughout the year and this is where the
diversity of the sport is seen.
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Figure March
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Through marching, the team displays intricate figures and
patterns whilst highlighting good deportment and uniformity.
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Free Exercise
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The team performs a series of strong movements involving
flexibility, control and uniformity of movement. Pupils operate
with "free arms" meaning they hold no apparatus.
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Rod Exercises
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Similar movements to free exercises are performed, with the
added complication of manipulating a long rod constantly and
quickly throughout the routine.
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Club Swinging
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This is probably the hardest routine to perform correctly. Teams
are required to swing clubs in unison with perfect rhythm and
uniformity in a circular action. Younger age groups may first
practice club swinging with lighter flags that are easier to
manipulate.
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Aesthetic Exercises
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Graceful and balletic movements are performed in this item.
Teams are expected to interpret music with feeling and softness, as
reflected throughout their body and facial expressions.
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Fancy item
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This is a generic term that covers a range of different
dance-type routines. Typically a theme is chosen and the aim of the
item is to portray a story to the audience. The type of fancy item
performed is rotated each year and can include folk dance
(performing the national dance of a country), song and dance, song
and action (combination of singing and free exercise) or stage
medley (combination of singing, dance and free exercise).
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As a sport, calisthenics improves co-ordination, mobility,
balance, strength, grace, flexibility and deportment; as well as
fostering self-esteem and team spirit. As an art it encourages an
appreciation of music, rhythm, the celebration of movement and the
excitement of performing on stage.
Your child's participation in calisthenics will help them to
develop self-discipline, teamwork, commitment, responsibility,
self-esteem and lasting friendships. From a developmental
perspective, the different disciplines can held to establish
general fitness, sensory development and integration,
directionality, memory, musical appreciation, rhythm, fundamental
motor skills and social awareness.
For more information about calisthenics please visit the other
calisthenics sites on our links page.