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PARALLEL BARS
Two parallel bars form an artistic gymnastics apparatus only used by male gymnasts. The bars are supported
by a metal or steel frame. The bars are made of wood or plastic or composite material. Routines consist of a wide variety
of different skills through which the gymnast must meet specific requirements. A typical performance on parallel bars will
involve swinging skills in a support position (on the hands), a hanging position, and an upper arm position. By manipulating
each of these swings, a gymnast is capable of performing a variety of flips and turns. Additionally, parallel bar routines
sometimes feature a strength or static hold skill. Finally, each routine ends with an impressive dismount which can be performed
off the ends of the bars or off the side of the apparatus. A common, simple dismount is a back off where a gymnast begins by
swinging forward in a front support between the bars and executes a backflip that travels laterally over one of the bars to a
stand next to the apparatus. The elements on parallel bars are regulated in Code of Points.
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September 7, 2007 | Stuttgart, Germany
Dorin Selariu of Romania performs on parallel bars during All-Around final in artistic gymnastics at 2007 World Championships.
Photograph copyright © Tom Theobald. |
Dimensions
Measures of the apparatus are published by the FIG in the Apparatus Norms brochure.
• Height: 195 cm (including about 20 cm landing mats)
• Length: 350 cm
• Distance between the bars: 42 cm to 52 cm (adjustable)
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