Does men's rhytmic gymnastics exist?

When we think of rhythmic gymnastics, we usually imagine graceful young women whose performances blend elegance, flexibility, and masterful handling of apparatus. Few people ever wonder: does men’s rhythmic gymnastics exist? As it turns out, this sport has long moved beyond gender stereotypes. Men’s rhythmic gymnastics is a growing reality around the world, showcasing strength, rhythm, and athleticism. But how did it begin? And what kind of apparatus do male athletes use?

The emergence of Men's rhythmic gymnastics

The origins of men’s rhythmic gymnastics trace back to Japan. In 1985, at the World Cup in Tokyo, audiences witnessed male gymnasts perform for the first time. The event caused a sensation: athletes combined acrobatic elements with apparatus work that looked radically different from the women’s version. Instead of ribbons — canes resembling ancient samurai weapons; hoops of a smaller diameter, stylized as shields; and heavy clubs symbolizing swords.

The Japanese school emphasized dynamism and a deep connection to cultural heritage. Routines incorporated elements of martial arts, highlighting masculinity and strength. However, global recognition didn’t come immediately. For a long time, the discipline remained a local phenomenon until the 2000s, when it was adopted by Spain. There, the approach shifted: Spanish gymnasts retained traditional apparatus — ribbons, balls, hoops — but added more acrobatic and strength-based elements to their routines.

What apparatus do men use in rhythmic gymnastics?

The specifics of men's rhythmic gymnastics are largely shaped by the apparatus they use. While women perform with ribbons, balls, and clubs, men incorporate equipment that requires different techniques and physical strength.

The most iconic item of the Japanese school is the cane — a 1.2-meter wooden staff that gymnasts spin, toss, and use as support for jumps. Its design is inspired by bo-jutsu, the martial art of staff fighting. Hoops are also essential, but smaller in diameter (80 cm compared to 90 cm in the women's division), and are often spun around the body or thrown during complex tricks. The clubs are heavier (150 grams each) and resemble bladed weapons, demanding greater precision and control.

In the Spanish version, traditional apparatus is preserved but adapted to male athleticism. For instance, the ribbon is extended to 6 meters (compared to 5 meters for women), making it harder to handle. Balls are heavier (around 400 grams), requiring gymnasts to showcase not only agility but also significant arm strength.

How is a routine structured?

Men’s routines are an explosive mix of rhythm, power, and artistry. While women’s performances often emphasize fluidity, here, dynamism takes center stage.

Each routine is divided into three parts:

● The opening ritual. The gymnast takes position, focusing intently on the apparatus. It’s a moment of concentration — almost like preparing for battle.

● Apparatus work. Spins, throws, and complex combinations unfold. For example, the cane might be tossed three meters into the air while the gymnast performs a somersault to catch it mid-flight.

● The acrobatic climax. The finale typically features a series of jumps or strength elements, showcasing endurance and control.

Costumes also reflect the distinct character of the sport. Instead of sequins and rhinestones, male gymnasts wear fitted shirts and pants that highlight muscular definition. The color palette is often bold and minimal — black, red, white — enhancing the overall impression of power.

Are there men's rhythmic gymnastics teams in Russia?

The development of men’s rhythmic gymnastics in Russia began later than in Japan or Spain, but it is already yielding results. In 2009, the All-Russian Federation of Rhythmic Gymnastics (VFRG), under the leadership of Irina Viner-Usmanova, officially recognized the sport. The first training centers were established in Moscow and Kazan, where coaches combine Japanese techniques with domestic methods.

Today, Russian gymnasts participate in international tournaments, although the discipline has not yet been included in the Olympic Games program. For example, in 2022, the team took second place at the Asian Cup in Tokyo, showcasing progress in working with canes and clubs.

Are there men's rhythmic gymnastics teams in Russia?

Russia, known as the cradle of women’s rhythmic gymnastics, is gradually embracing the men's direction as well. Is there men's rhythmic gymnastics in Russia today? Yes, and it is gaining momentum. The first steps were taken in 2009 when the All-Russian Federation of Rhythmic Gymnastics (VFRG) officially approved the athlete training program. Irina Viner-Usmanova, president of the VFRG, emphasizes: "We see potential in this direction. Men bring new elements to gymnastics — strength, rhythm, coordination."

The main training centers are located in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kazan. Here, young gymnasts master the apparatus using Japanese methods, adapted to Russian standards. For example, canes and clubs are made from lighter materials to reduce the risk of injury while maintaining the dynamic nature of the performances.

By 2015, the Russian national team debuted on the international stage at the World Cup in Japan. The team placed fourth, but judges noted the uniqueness of the choreography and the technical complexity of their routines. By 2023, the athletes had improved their results: gold at the European Cup in Spain and silver at the Asian Games.

Tournaments and prospects of men's rhythmic gymnastics

Despite the growing activity, men's rhythmic gymnastics has not yet been recognized by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). This limits its presence at the Olympics and World Championships. However, in pioneering countries such as Japan, Spain, and Russia, local championships are held, drawing thousands of spectators.

In Russia, a key event has been the "Grace and Strength" tournament, which started in 2020. Its unique feature is the combination of women's and men's performances in one program. According to the organizers, this format helps the audience appreciate the contrast and uniqueness of each direction. For example, in 2023, the winner among the men was Artem Sokolov, whose cane routine was inspired by ancient Russian warrior traditions.

Experts highlight three stages necessary for the global recognition of the discipline:

● Standardization of rules. Currently, each country interprets the requirements for apparatus and costumes in its own way.

● Training international judges. Without a unified scoring system, it is difficult to achieve fairness in competitions.

● Media promotion. Broadcasting tournaments on social media and TV can attract a new audience.

While these tasks are being addressed, male gymnasts continue to demonstrate a high level of skill. For example, Japan's Yuma Yamada, a two-time Asian champion, performs tricks that were once considered impossible: spinning two canes simultaneously while jumping through a hoop.

Conclusion

So, does men's rhythmic gymnastics exist? Not only does it exist, but it is also developing, overcoming stereotypes and winning the hearts of spectators. From Tokyo halls to Russian sports complexes, athletes are proving that grace and masculinity can complement each other. Their performances are a spectacle where acrobatics meet history, and rhythm intertwines with cultural heritage.

Men's rhythmic gymnastics is a challenge to oneself. It teaches how to combine strength with elegance, and traditions with innovation.