Disciplines of Calisthenics
Calisthenics combines fitness, teamwork and performing skills while the confidence and friendships made in our sported are gained for life.
Pupils perform many different items, giving them the opportunity to learn a vast range of skills such as rhythm, coordination, discipline, marching, flexibility, use of apparatus, singing, dancing, grace, poise, agility and correct deportment & posture. Calisthenics is everything!
Below is an explanation to all of the Team items performed in our unique sport.
Figure Marching (all sections)
The value of correct deportment is the emphasis in Figure Marching. Though the marching team is also judged on its execution of intricate formations and patterns, deportment is the single most important factor and must be maintained strictly at all times. The uniformity of style between marchers is a further basic requirement, whilst rhythm and precision from member to member must be identical. Team-work is essential.
Rod Exercises (all sections except tinies)
Rods are a challenging exercise in the use of apparatus. The rod is made of metal and is approximately 5 - 10mm in diameter. The manipulation of this simple piece of equipment demonstrates the pinnacles of coordination that the members of a disciplined team can achieve. Whilst the rod itself is the focal point, the use of the body and the legs are also incorporated into the exercises.
Club Swinging (all sections except tinies)
Club swinging is a most difficult art. It demands coordination, concentration and many hours of practice. An accomplished team can execute complex movements as each club swings through a perfect circle on an imaginary plane. The performers must aim to swing as mirror images of one another and again, teamwork is essential.
Aesthetic Exercises (all sections except tinies)
The Aesthetic section comprises a series of movements, which are soft and flowing. Music is chosen for its variety of mood and tempo, but more particularly to facilitate the flow of the routine and the expression of the performers. Elevated movements are not permitted. Competing in the Graceful Girl section can assist greatly in developing the grace and poise necessary for aesthetic exercise.
Fancy Items
Only one of the following special items is performed at competitions each year. The item to be performed in any given year for each section is announced by CASA (Calisthenics Association of SA).
Rhythmic Interpretations (Inters and Seniors Only)
Within Rhythmic Interpretations, turn-out, arm, foot and head positions are as for Aesthetic Exercises, however elevation is the essential component (eg; movements such as jete, grand-jete, cabriole and pirouette). The dance can be set to a variety of rhythms and interpretation of a theme is expressed throughout the dance through music, costuming, and the use of mime and possibly principal dancers.
Song and Dance (all sections)
Throughout this type of presentation, singing and dancing must be evenly balanced, with the theme of the song carrying through and influencing the dance. The type of dance performed is optional and the coach has unlimited freedom in the choreography of steps and movements.
Calisthenics Spectacular (all sections except tinies)
The basis of this item consists of a routine of equal balance - half-free exercises and half dance. All movements and music are chosen in pertinence to the chosen theme.
Dance Arrangement (all sections except tinies and sub-juniors)
This item is purely a dance section. Choreography is limited only by the coach’s imagination.
Folk Dance National Dances from all over the world are performed and interpreted theatrically. Pupils are expected to display correct steps in unison, while also conveying national character, agility and vitality.
Song & Action Team members join together to present a musical item comprising singing, acting and choreographed movement. Young participants especially enjoy this item.
Calisthenics Revue/Stage Presentation/Stage Medley
These items are very similar to a Calisthenic Spectacular but do not have the restriction of fifty percent dance and fifty percent calisthenic movement as it allows for singing, dancing and acting as well as physical movements.
This section can include any element of calisthenics, in any ratio. Dancing, free exercise, speaking, acting, singing and solo singing etc. may all be incorporated to help in the portrayal of the story or theme chosen by the coach.
Solo's and Duos
Calisthenics is predominantly a team sport, however, pupils can compete individually as soloists or in a Calisthenic Duo. Solo competitions are divided into two categories:
1. Graceful Girl
2. Best Type Solo
In the Graceful Girl Section, pupils present a combination of aesthetic and rhythmic movements. Graceful Girl Competitions are held in March and April of each year.
The Calisthenic Solo / Duo Section requires pupils to present a greater diversity in their routine. They need to display elements of free exercise, aesthetic, dance and flexibility. Solo & Duo Competitions are held throughout November.
Ridgehaven has had many placegetters and Winners in these Competitions over the years.
The Graceful Girl Competition has a long history and is considered to be more traditional. To win or even place in a Championship Final is a very prestigious achievement.
If you are interested in your daughter doing a Solo or Duo, please speak to your Team Coach. Many of our coaches are talented Solo and Duo Coaches and are willing to take on more girls.
