Artistic gymnastics is a highly challenging and dynamic sport that combines strength, flexibility, agility, and artistic expression. It is one of the most popular disciplines in gymnastics and a highlight of the Summer Olympic Games. Here’s an overview of artistic gymnastics:

**1. Apparatus:**

– Men’s Events: Floor Exercise, Pommel Horse, Rings, Vault, Parallel Bars, Horizontal Bar.
– Women’s Events: Vault, Uneven Bars, Balance Beam, Floor Exercise.

**2. Scoring System:**

– The Code of Points is used to evaluate routines based on difficulty, execution, and composition.
– Difficulty (D) and Execution (E) scores are combined, and deductions are made for errors.
– The highest and lowest scores from a panel of judges are discarded, and the remaining scores are averaged.

**3. Floor Exercise:**

– A routine set to music that combines tumbling passes, dance elements, and acrobatics.
– Athletes showcase their personality and artistic flair.

**4. Vault:**

– Gymnasts perform a fast sprint and a powerful jump onto a springboard, followed by a dynamic maneuver over the vaulting table.
– Two different vaults are required in major competitions.

**5. Pommel Horse:**

– A routine performed on a narrow, elongated apparatus with handles (pommels).
– Requires a combination of swinging, circling, and handstand skills.

**6. Rings:**

– Athletes demonstrate strength and control while performing a series of strength elements and swinging movements on suspended rings.

**7. Parallel Bars:**

– A routine performed on two parallel bars set at different heights.
– Involves swinging, support, and flight elements.

**8. Horizontal Bar:**

– Also known as high bar, athletes perform a routine of dynamic and high-flying releases, swings, and spins.

**9. Uneven Bars:**

– Exclusively a women’s event, routines include swings, releases, and transitions between high and low bars.

**10. Balance Beam:**

– A narrow beam raised off the floor where gymnasts perform a series of acrobatic and dance elements.
– Requires exceptional balance and precision.

**11. Artistic Expression:**

– Gymnasts are evaluated not only on technical skills but also on their presentation, creativity, and overall artistic expression.

**12. Training and Competitions:**

– Gymnasts typically start training at a young age and undergo rigorous training regimes to develop strength, flexibility, and skills.
– Major competitions include the Olympic Games, World Championships, and continental championships.

Artistic gymnastics is a sport that demands precision, strength, and artistry, and it continues to captivate audiences around the world with its breathtaking performances.