The rings: What is this gymnastics part and what are they exactly?
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The rings are one of the classic gymnastics equipment. Rings are made of wood, attached to a piece of leather that is attached to steel cables or ropes. To prevent the cables from becoming twisted during dislocating, among other things, so-called dislocating glands are mounted between the rings and the cables. Rings can be used for several types of basic moves, such as silent swings, push-off swings, and somersaults.
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What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
Gymnastics with Rings: A Brief Introduction
Gymnastics with rings is one of the most iconic gymnastics events. It consists of two wooden rings attached to a rope or steel cable with a piece of leather. In the men's it is part of the Olympic all-around, but there is no swinging in this version. Instead, three different parts are performed:
Static Parts
These exercises require a lot of strength and must be held for at least two seconds. Examples of this are:
- width hanging
- handstand
Swing parts
These exercises are a bit more dynamic and require more movement. Examples of this are:
- Disloque
- inloque
Dismount
The dismount is the last part of the routine. The gymnast must release the rings and make a jump.
Although ring swinging is still a gymnastics event, it is no longer part of the Olympic all-around. However, the Dutch gymnast Yuri van Gelder has achieved great success on the rings. He has become European champion three times, in 2005, 2008 and 2009, and once World champion in 2005.
What are the differences between gym rings?
Gym rings are a versatile and widely used training tool. But what exactly are the differences between the different types? In this article we take a closer look at the different sizes, bands and materials of gym rings.
Different sizes of gym rings
Gym rings are used in cross training, gymnastics and calisthenics. Depending on what you are going to use the rings for, it is therefore important to make a good choice. There are two sizes that you will find the most, namely the 1,1 inch (28mm) and the 1,25 inch (32mm). The 1,1 inch (28mm) thickness is the official size of the International Gymnastics Federation and is the standard within gymnastics. The 1,25 inch (32mm) thickness is the standard for cross training.
The difference in the tires
Safety is the first thing to consider when it comes to the type of band you use for your gym rings. The most commonly used type of buckle that is often supplied with gym rings today is the clamp buckle. Usually two sizes of the clamping buckle are used. The thin elongated clamping buckle for a 28mm strap and the somewhat more square and wider clamping buckle for 38mm straps. The wider 38mm strap with clamp buckle is the best choice, as it is more robust for intensive use and heavier loads.
Rings of different materials
When it comes to material, you can roughly say that there are three choices. Namely wood, plastic and steel. Wood and plastic are readily available, while steel is a bit more difficult to find. Steel is a lot heavier than wood and plastic, making your set less practical to take with you. On the other hand, steel is extremely durable, provided you do not leave the rings hanging in the rain.
Gym rings: what you need to know before you buy them
Choose wooden rings
If you are looking for good value for money, wood is the best option. While plastic rings are slightly cheaper, wooden rings provide more grip and are therefore worth it.
Choose the correct strap and clamping buckle
When you buy gym rings, make sure you choose the right strap and clamping buckle. The 38mm strap is the best option here.
Gym rings: a simple tool with many possibilities
Gym rings are a simple tool with which you can train a lot. They reappear in my workout every week, so I recommend you give them a try!
Conclusion
Ring gymnastics is a challenging discipline that requires a lot of strength and technique. There are two types of rings that are used: the 1,1 inch (28mm) and the 1,25 inch (32mm). The 1,1 inch is the official size of the International Gymnastics Federation (IGF) and is used in gymnastics and calisthenics. The 1,25 inch is the standard in cross training and is also used at the CrossFit Games. Safety is important when using gym rings, so choose a band with a matching buckle that you are sure will hold. Once you've got the right rings, it's time to get going and improve your strength and technique! If you want to become Yuri van Gelder, don't forget that you also have to practice your COUPLE!
Always something to do for the holidays or rainy day?
Play Choice now has the ultimate activity book collection, with over 60 pages of fun coloring pages and educational puzzles.
Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.
