Types Of Leotards For Gymnastics

Whether you are a professional gymnast, club gymnast or just starting out, making sure that you have the right clothes is extremely important. Leotards for gymnastics are available in a wide range of fabrics, styles and designs and from a range of shops worldwide.

For females who compete in gymnastic competitions the standard uniform is that of a leotard. Long sleeves were traditionally worn when competing however, sleeveless and half sleeved outfits are now allowed under the Code of Points. Strict guidelines must be followed though as points can be deducted if they are too low cut or sit too high on the hip.

Leotards were initially made of polyester, but during the 1980′s Lycra and spandex began to be used more frequently. The leotards that are worn for gymnastics nowadays are available in velour, nylon, mesh, foils and even iridescent hologram fabrics. And Lycra.

Velour and Nylon are manufactured with added Lycra and this means that both fabrics a very versatile and multi functional materials. Wearing one of these fabrics or a mixture of both will compliment the movements and enhance whole routine preformed by the gymnast. The fabrics are made in a wide range of vivid colors and patterns and looks fantastic when view during a show or competition.

Ladies outfits are often elaborately decorated with jewels and rhinestones that are set onto the garments using a heat treatment. This method of application means that the decoration is fixed firmly to the fabric and will not wash or fall off during a routine or practice.

In recent years the jewels and sequins that are attached to the lady competitors outfits has become more elaborate and this is not considered to be an important part of the presentation of the athlete and team when competing at a high level.

Men who compete in gymnastic events also wear a leotard and these are called a singlet. This is a type of sleeveless leotard that allows free movement when competing and practicing events. The men’s outfits are generally a lot less ornate that the ladies who they compete alongside and they are normally just made up of the team color for whom they represent. It is not unusual for a male competitor to adorn his outfit with jewels to match that of his female team mates but it is normally the plainer option that it’s taken by the male gymnasts.

When competing in a competition the participant will have a number or bib attached to the leotard so that they can be easily identified as to who they are and the team that they are part of. This also aids the judges that are scoring the competition when watching the routines that are being completed.

Overall the leotards for gymnastics are progressing with technological developments such as material design, flexibility and the adorning of jewels to the garments. In gymnastics appearances really do matter and this has been proven with the range of designs and colors that are worn in high level competitions today.