- Why is clothing so important in rhythmic gymnastics?
- What should the regulation outfit look like?
- Items that are NOT allowed
- Did you know…?
- What is a rhythmic gymnast's outfit called?
- Training wear and club uniform: what to wear every day
- Frequently asked questions
- Conclusion: the overall look is everything
In rhythmic gymnastics, every detail counts. Technique, expression, coordination and also clothing are key elements of this discipline. The outfit needed to compete is not a simple decoration but a set of essential elements for the presentation and execution of routines on the floor. There are very precise rules, and a mistake in any of these areas can lead to a penalty. In this article you will discover what the complete regulation outfit should look like, which items are allowed, which are prohibited, and some curiosities that will surprise you.
Why is clothing so important in rhythmic gymnastics?
Clothing in this discipline combines function, aesthetics and regulations. It is not only about looking good: the outfit must allow correct technical execution, highlight body expression and comply with international rules. Judges need to clearly evaluate every line of the body, every rotation and every balance, which is why the leotard, hairstyle and footwear must all be perfectly under control. A lack of secure fit or a detail that falls outside the rules can mean the loss of key points.
What should the regulation outfit look like?
1. The Leotard
The leotard in rhythmic gymnastics was not always as eye-catching as it is today. In the early days, plain designs without a skirt predominated, intended to show off every movement of the body with precision. From the 2000s onwards, the small integrated skirt began to gain prominence, adding dynamism and elegance to the overall look. Today, the leotard serves not only a technical purpose but also an artistic one: crystals, embroidery and colours make each design unique, like a visual extension of the music and body expression.
What should the leotard be like?
- Fitted to the body: it should fit like a “second skin”. A gymnast may not wear a leotard that is clearly not her size, as this could interfere with the exercises and make it harder for judges to assess them.
- Neckline: it may not go below the middle of the sternum at the front, nor below the lower line of the shoulder blades at the back.
- Sleeves: long, short or sleeveless designs are allowed. Thin straps are not allowed.
- Sheer fabrics: not allowed, unless they are lined with fabric in the same shade as the leotard or in a nude colour.
- Leg cut: it must not rise above the groin crease.
- Decoration: rhinestones, sequins or embroidery are allowed, as long as they do not come loose or interfere with the exercise.
- In group routines: the leotards of gymnasts performing in a group must all have the same design and colour.
2. Footwear
Gymnasts must compete in toe shoes. This footwear offers protection and flexibility for the foot. If they do not wear toe shoes, or if they come off during competition, according to the FIG Code of Points this is considered an inadequate presentation of the outfit and may be penalised depending on how it affects the routine. This is because it interrupts the harmony of the exercise and can affect the safety and fluidity of the movement.
3. Hairstyle
- Hair must always be kept up, firmly and securely.
- Buns are the most common hairstyle and must be properly secured and keep hair away from the face. Keeping hair up helps gymnasts feel more secure and focused on the exercise. Large decorations or ones that could come loose, such as dangling bows or poorly secured headbands, are not allowed.
- A hairstyle that comes undone can lead to a penalty. For this reason, it is recommended to use hairnets and hairpins in the same colour as the hair to keep it in place without distractions.
See the blog "Complete Guide to Making a Rhythmic Gymnastics Bun"
4. Makeup and nails
- Makeup in rhythmic gymnastics is part of the presentation. It should enhance the face and expression without being exaggerated. It can be matched to the leotard so the two complement each other, as long as it does not stand out, have shapes or patterns, or look theatrical. A long-lasting, waterproof makeup is recommended so it stays in place throughout the routine.
- Nails should be kept short to avoid snagging or possible accidents. Painting nails is permitted, as there are no specific rules prohibiting it, and some gymnasts use it to complement their outfit. Although there are no strict rules on nail polish, some competitions have recommended not wearing painted nails. It is worth checking the rules of the specific event.
5. Other permitted items
- Short skirt: it must be attached to the leotard and serve a purely decorative function. It must not move or extend above the level of the pelvis.
- Unitard (full-length bodysuit): it may be worn as an alternative to the leotard, covering the legs and arms, as long as it stays fitted and respects the criteria of symmetry and visibility of the body. It must allow judges to see the lines and movements of the body clearly, and both the colour and the decoration must be uniform across the legs and arms. The full-length unitard first became popular in some countries for cultural or religious reasons, but today some gymnasts choose it for comfort or style.
- Bandages or protective wraps: they must be discreet, in skin tones or white. If they are brightly coloured or highly visible, a penalty applies.
Items that are NOT allowed
In rhythmic gymnastics, any detail outside the rules can lead to a penalty of up to 0.30 points for an inadequate presentation. These are some of the most common mistakes related to the regulation outfit and the gymnast's overall appearance that are prohibited in competition:
- Loose hair or poorly secured hairstyles that come undone during the routine.
- Toe shoes that come off because they are poorly fitted or the wrong size.
- Thin or asymmetrical straps on the leotard, which are prohibited by the rules.
- Sheer fabric without lining in sensitive areas of the body.
- Jewellery, visible piercings or dangling ornaments (such as long earrings, bracelets or necklaces).
- Loose novelty accessories, such as scarves, feathers or decorative hoods.
- Bandages, wristbands or protectors in bright or conspicuous colours.
- Poorly attached decorations on the leotard, such as rhinestones or appliqués that could come loose during the exercise.
- Leotard with an inadequate cut: necklines that are too low or leg cuts that go above the groin crease.
Did you know…?
- The regulations require that the outfit does not distract either the judges or the audience. For this reason, excessive shine or fluorescent colours are prohibited.
- Top-level gymnasts can own more than 10 leotards per season, with exclusive designs for each routine.
- Many clubs commission their leotards from specialist designers who can take weeks to hand-embroider crystals.
What is a rhythmic gymnast's outfit called?
The correct name is leotard. In everyday use you may also hear it called a suit, uniform or even dress, especially when it has an integrated skirt, but they all refer to the same garment. If it also covers the legs and arms, it is called a unitard (or full-length bodysuit).
When choosing yours, pay attention to three things above all: that the size is right and it fits like a second skin, that the neckline respects what we have already covered, and that the decoration is securely attached. If you are looking for options for training or competing, you can browse our selection of rhythmic gymnastics leotards and unitards.
Training wear and club uniform: what to wear every day
Not everything you wear to class is what you wear on the floor in competition. For daily training, it is usual to combine comfortable clothing that does not get in the way and lets the coach see your posture:
- Fitted t-shirt or top, so the coach can see the lines of the body.
- Leggings or shorts that do not move during turns and jumps.
- Warm-up pants to get warm and avoid cooling down between exercises.
- Toe shoes that fit well, also during training, so you get used to them.
- Hair up in a firm bun with a hairnet, just as in competition.
Many clubs have their own training or exhibition uniform, so before buying anything, ask your coach which garments and colours you should wear. If you are looking for ideas, here is rhythmic gymnastics clothing for everyday training.
A practical tip: save your competition leotard for when it's needed and train in a simpler one. This way the crystals and embroidery will last longer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the outfit that rhythmic gymnasts wear called?
It is called a leotard. It is a fitted garment, with or without an integrated skirt, decorated with crystals or embroidery. When it covers the legs and arms, it is called a unitard or full-length bodysuit. In everyday language it may also be called a suit, uniform or dress.
Is rhythmic gymnastics clothing the same as artistic gymnastics clothing?
Not necessarily. They are different disciplines, each with its own rules and particularities. This article focuses on rhythmic gymnastics. Rules and categories vary by country, so if you compete in artistic gymnastics or another discipline, check with your national gymnastics federation or the specific rules of the competition.
Can I train in my competition leotard?
There is no problem with trying it on and rehearsing in it to get used to it, but ideally it should be saved for important occasions. Crystals, embroidery and delicate fabrics wear out with daily use, so for training it is better to use a simpler leotard.
What uniform do gymnasts in a group wear?
In group routines, all gymnasts must wear leotards with the same design and colour. In addition, each club may have its own training uniform, so it is worth asking your coach before buying new clothing.
Conclusion: the overall look is everything
In rhythmic gymnastics, the execution of technical elements is not the only thing that is valued: the gymnast's overall appearance is part of the presentation. A well-designed leotard, a flawless hairstyle and appropriate footwear reinforce safety, artistic expression and respect for the rules. Clothing is not just something to wear; it reflects the level and preparation of the team. Whether for an official competition, an exhibition or a training camp, taking care of every aspect of the outfit is key to conveying elegance, professionalism and passion for this beautiful sport.
