EVENTS
Although artistic gymnastics and rhythmic gymnastics are similar to each other, trampoline gymnastics is completely different. Rather than including different events, trampoline is the event. It does not split into categories such as bars and beam or ropes and hoops.
PARTICIPANTS
Unlike rhythmic gymnastics and like artistic gymnastics, trampoline competitions are open to both men and women. There is a men's team and a women's team, but the team members also compete individually.
JUDGES
For trampoline competitions, there is a panel of six or seven judges. These judges would be chosen in a similar way to those of artistic and rhythmic gymnastics judges. That is, they would be tested on their knowledge of trampoline gymnastics.
JUDGING
the judges will be given a score sheet, which lists the routine of each gymnast. This way, a mistake cannot occur in the calculation of the gymnasts' scores. If a gymnast falls or stops bouncing before their routine is complete, their routine will be discontinued.
ROUTINES
Each gymnast performs a routine on the trampoline. This entails performing somersaults, twists, and other movements while bouncing. To begin the routine the gymnast will bounce up and down a few times, trying get higher. A gymnast must be bouncing at a minimum of fifteen feet before beginning any tricks. Some gymnasts are able to bounce thirty feet in the air, and stay there for two seconds!
HISTORY
Trampoline gymnastics is the newest and least common form of gymnastics. In the last twenty years, it has become more popular as a competitive sport. It was a very recent addition to the Olympics, debuting as an Olympic medal sport in the 2000 Sydney Games.
