New Delhi, December 13 (IANS). You must have seen the fascinating combination of ballet and creative movement in the Olympic Games with the use of props such as ribbons, balls, hoops, ropes and sticks, known as ‘Rhythmic Gymnastics’. This mat sport combines dance, ballet and gymnastics, in which points are given to the athlete’s flexibility, balance, coordination and expression. The sport has its roots in Europe, where it was developed as a form of physical education and dance in the late 19th century. Henrik, a Swedish teacher, developed the game as an exercise system that focused on a combination of body movement and music. This laid the foundation of rhythmic gymnastics. In the year 1946 it was made a formal sport. Rhythmic gymnastics emerged as a separate competitive sport in the 1950s. It was recognized by the International Gymnastics Federation in the year 1961. The first World Championship of this competition was organized in the year 1964. However, it only became an Olympic medal sport in 1984, due to which it could not get special recognition in America at that time. In the year 1984, the Summer Olympics were held in Los Angeles, where this sport also made its Olympic debut for the first time. Group rhythmic gymnastics debuted with the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Many types of items are used in this game. Roping involves swinging, throwing and balancing acts. Ball involves rolling, swinging and balancing, while hooping involves rolling, swinging and jumping routines. While the club involves swinging, catching and swinging actions. Ribbons are used to make patterns such as snakes, spirals and figure 8s. In rhythmic gymnastics, judges judge a player’s performance. During this, athletes are given scores based on difficulty and execution. Like any competitive sport, rhythmic gymnastics also has certain rules that must be followed. Points are deducted if rules are not followed. India will have to take a long-term view to win medals in rhythmic gymnastics. Identification of young talent, understanding of international level coaches and judging standards is essential. Regular participation in foreign competitions will increase the experience of our country’s players. –IANS RSG/DSC