About Calisthenics
Calisthenics is primarily oriented towards young girls. It is composed of a variety of events including march, clubs, freearm (similar to rhythmic gymnastics, without apparatus), rods, aesthetics (a graceful form of dance with long skirts), song & dance and calisthenics revue.
Girls wear beautiful costumes often designed and sewn especially for the year's competition items. The competitors also wear theatrical make up to emphasize expressions on stage. Team competition is the main form of competition, however solo competitions called "Graceful Girl" and/or "Solo and Duo" are regarded as the ultimate ambition for calisthenic girls.
Calisthenics was first pioneered as a sport in the 1890s. In 1903, the Royal South Street Society introduced calisthenics as a section in its famous eisteddfod in Ballarat. Calisthenics is now a competitive sport in all Australian states except Tasmania.
Girls are grouped into six sections based on their age as at 31 December in the year that the competition is held. The sections are: Tinies (3-7), Sub-juniors (8-9) and Juniors (10-12). Older girls can compete in Inters and Seniors levels.
In each competition teams compete in six different sections. Each team usually competes once in each section. The videos show a sample of girls who compete in that section at an elite level.
Figure March
A team of over 8 displays intricate figures and patterns, while 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. A well choreographed set will display many complex patterns and be very entertaining.
Club Swinging
A team of over 8 pupils are required to execute complex swings in unison with perfect rhythm in a
planing action. Rhythm is a very important aspect, as each arm and club swing independently of the other,
so exact rhythm is extremely important.
Free Exercises
Commonly referred to as 'freearm', this is 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. Younger sections start with simple basic movements, that must be c
orrect in detail and uniformity. As the item progresses through the age groups, it becomes more challenging
depending on the girls strength and abilities.
Rod Exercises
Commonly known as 'rods', this item is based on similar movements to 'Freearm' with the
added challenge of manipulating a long rod. The rod itself is made of metal, 3/8" to 5/8" diameter. The
length is taken from the centre of the chest to the end of the middle finger when the arm is in side raise
position. Although the rod is the focal point, the manipulation of this apparatus while demonstrating
flexible use of body and legs, highlights the concentration and co-ordination required by the performers.
Aesthetics
Aesthetic exercises is performed by a team of 8 or more students. This is intended to be a graceful,
flowing performance to interpret music with a variety of facial and body expressions. Music chosen is often
classical and should suit the age group to allow interpretation to be expressed. Movements should be
soft and flowing while maintaining poise, strength, and at times demonstrating flexibility. Arm and feet
positions are taken from Classical Ballet with a softer feel.
Song And Dance or Folk Dance
Depending on the age group, one of these disciplines is performed in competition.
Song and Dance combines singing with modern dance, it is important to make sure the theme of the song is carried
through to the style of dance steps, and costume choice. Equal weight is placed on both the singing quality
and correct dance technique. Overall presentation, facial expression and style, also play a key role in
presenting a successful Song and Dance.
In Folk Dance, pupils learn and perform basic steps of a traditional national dance from all around the
world. Pupils must display with correct technique and appropriate costuming and music must be followed.