THE HISTORY OF WOMEN’S GYMNASTICS APPARATUS THE EVOLUTION OF BALANCE BEAM AND UNEVEN BARS

Abstract

Since its birth, gymnastics equipments of the twenty-first century have gone
through an enourmous structural change until they reached today’s impres-
sive form. From a gymnastics history aspect it could be interesting to examine
where, when and how they were first invented and have been improved from
the beginnings up to now. Different shapes and materials meant creating dif-
ferent and brand new elements and combinations on behalf of the gymnasts.
This of course also meant a fast structural development. In the history of
gymnastics women as well as men all had to take the uneven road of finding
the best matching equipments. Surely it proved to be greater challenge for
women since for a long time they were being questioned to be able to use
certain equipments or not. The aim of my study is to demonstrate the main
stations of balance beam and uneven bars with the help of sports historical
documents.