Disciplines


There are many different disciplines or routines that are taught in calisthenics, which is why it is considered such a diversified sport. Today, the items of Calisthenics are:

Rod Exercises
Commonly known as 'rods', this is a challenging item. Eight pupils perform similar movements to free exercises, with the added challenge of manipulating a long rod constantly, effortlessly and quickly through the routine.
Although the rod is the focal point, the manipulation of this apparatus whilst demonstrating flexible use of body and legs, highlights the concentration and co-ordination required by the performers.
The rod is made of aluminium, approximately 5-10 mm in diameter. The length is taken from the centre chest to the end of the middle finger when the arm is in the Side Raise position, plus 30-50 mm.


Free Exercises
Probably the most physically challenging and impressive to watch. This item is performed with no apparatus, strong gymnastic style movements, great flexibility and control make up this exciting routine. A team of eight pupils perform a series of strong movements involving high levels of flexibility, control and uniformity of rhythm. Younger sections start with simple basic movements, that must be correct in detail and uniformity. As the item progresses through the age groups, it becomes more challenging depending on the girls strength and abilities.


Aesthetics
 Aesthetics is a ballet influenced discipline showing the team's ability to interpret the music in graceful movements and is performed by a team of 8-16 pupils. This is a graceful flowing performance to interpret music with feeling and softness, as reflected throughout a variety of facial and body expressions. Music chosen is often classical pieces.
Movements should be soft and flowing whilst maintaining poise, strength, and at times demonstrating flexibility. Arm and feet positions are taken from Classical Ballet with a softer feel. Artistic groups, individual roles and abstract mime can also be introduced to add interest to the choreography.


Club Swinging
Club swinging is one of the routines in which an apparatus is used. Club Swinging is the most difficult skill a calisthenic pupil will learn and is probably the hardest routine to perform correctly. It requires no special physical attributes, just pure determination and lots of practise. A team of 8-10 pupils are required to execute complex swings in unison with perfect rhythm and uniformity in a planing or circular action using both hands to swing the clubs in opposite directions and positions.
Rhythm is a very important aspect, as each arm and club swing independently of the other, so exact rhythm is extremely important.
Advanced routines will also include pupils to move through team formations and execute leg movements, as well as perform intricate swings.
The length of the club varies from 30-45 cm, depending on the length of the arm.


Figure March
A team of 16 displays intricate figures and patterns, whilst highlighting good deportment and team work. Similar to that seen of 'Marching Girls' rhythm and precision within the team must be identical and is a basic requirement. While the marching team executes many intricate floor patterns, deportment and uniformity remain the most important factors. The uniformity in style of each marcher is a basic requirement and the rhythm and precision within the team must be identical. As with all Calisthenics items, teamwork is essential. A well choreographed set will display many complex patterns and be very entertaining.


Action Song
 Action song is mostly performed in the younger sections. It involves singing and acting to tell the audience a story. With stage props and colourful costumes, children enjoy acting out fantasies and make-believe whilst singing their favourite rhymes and songs. Singing is the most important aspect of the item and many hours of practise is required to present a tuneful and entertaining item.


Song and Dance
Song and Dance is where a team combines singing with modern and jazz dance steps. A high quality of singing, presentation, style and facial expression and technique of dance steps, must be demonstrated.


Song with movements
Song With Movements is a routine where a team can present a musical item comprising of singing, acting and choreographed movements. The arrangement should incorporate a song, or a selection of songs and movements pertaining to the style and character of the presentation. Arrangements should be animated with combinations of groups and patterns, costumes and stage properties.


Calisthenics Spectacular
Calisthenic Spectacular is a routine where teams are encouraged to combine many aspects of calisthenics plus dancing, singing, gymnastics, ballet movements, comedy and costume changes - all designed to make this a breathtaking routine. The routine should be equally balanced 50% physical exercises and 50% dance to the chosen theme.


Rhytmic dance Interpretation
Rhythmic is based on a mixture of dancing and elevation. Rhythmic can be based on an Aesthetic style or Jazz style of dance as long as it includes many steps of elevation, body line, natural grace, dance quality, poise and interpretation of the theme. The dance can be set to a variety of rhythms. The soloists and chorus may portray the story or theme and create and atmosphere pertaining to the mood. Due to the strength and techniques involved, this routine is only taught in the older age groups.


Folk Dance
Folk Dance is a National "dance of the people". Folk Dance is graded on the team's ability to perform and interpret national dances from all over the world theatrically. Teams are expected to show the correct steps in unison as well as convey national character, agility and vitality.