- floor exercise
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a competition in which each entrant performs a routine of acrobatic tumbling feats and balletic movements without any apparatus on a specifically designated floor space, usually 12 m (39 ft.) square and having a matlike covering.[1970-75]
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Event in gymnastics competition consisting of various ballet and tumbling movements (including jumps, somersaults, and handstands) performed without apparatus.Women's routines are performed with musical accompaniment, men's routines without it. The whole routine must be performed with rhythm and harmony and must be designed to use a major portion of an area 12 m (39 ft 4 in.) square. It was included as an Olympic medal event for men in 1936 and for women in 1952.* * *
gymnastics event in which movements are performed on the floor in an area 12 metres (40 feet) square. This area is covered by some type of cloth or mat, usually with some cushioning. No other apparatus is used. Men's routines are 50 to 70 seconds in duration. The type of exercise required is a series of movements combining elements of flexibility, strength, jumps, holding of poses, and balance, as well as other maneuvers. The whole routine must be performed with rhythm and harmony, and the gymnast must move in different directions, using a major portion of the allotted area.The exercise usually starts and finishes with a series of tumbling movements, such as a handspring or a cartwheel with a half-turn (roundoff), continuing with handsprings and somersaults (in the air), either backward or forward. Between start and finish, balances are held on one leg, handstands are achieved by placing the hands on the floor and kicking to a standing position, and movements resembling ballet, tumbling movements, and jumps are interposed.The women's event is similar to the men's, except that it is performed to music and lasts 70 to 90 seconds. The floor exercise was introduced as an individual Olympic (Olympic Games) medal sport for men in 1936 and for women in 1952.* * *
Universalium. 2010.
