Buying Guide
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How to Choose Rhythmic Gymnastics Equipment
Choosing the right apparatus makes training more comfortable, builds confidence and helps every gymnast get the best from each movement. Use this guide to choose your ball, hoop, clubs, ribbon, stick and rope.
Start with the gymnast, not the apparatus
The right rhythmic gymnastics equipment depends on several factors: the gymnast's age, height, experience, training level and competition requirements.
Younger gymnasts often find smaller and lighter apparatus easier to control, while older and competitive gymnasts may need equipment that meets specific competition requirements.
Always confirm the required apparatus size and specification with your coach. Requirements may vary by age category, club, federation and competition.
Choose the Right Equipment
Learn what to look for before choosing each rhythmic gymnastics apparatus.
Ball
A rhythmic gymnastics ball should feel comfortable in the gymnast's hand and provide enough grip for throws, catches, balances and body rolls.
Balls around 16–17 cm are often chosen for younger gymnasts and beginners because they are easier for smaller hands to handle.
Older and competitive gymnasts commonly use balls around 18–18.5 cm, depending on their category and coach's recommendation.
Look for a ball that offers reliable grip without feeling sticky and allows smooth rolls across the body.
Hoop
Hoop size should primarily suit the gymnast's height. Choosing the correct size makes rotations, rolls, balances and apparatus handling much more comfortable.
As a practical guide, the top of the hoop should reach approximately hip level.
Avoid choosing a hoop that feels oversized simply because the gymnast may eventually grow into it.
Competitive gymnasts should confirm the appropriate size, weight and approval requirements with their coach.
Clubs
Clubs should feel proportional to the gymnast's height and comfortable during mills, rotations, throws and catches.
Younger gymnasts often benefit from shorter clubs while developing coordination and basic handling technique.
Taller and more experienced gymnasts generally progress to longer clubs appropriate for their competition level.
Some professional models can connect at the heads, allowing more advanced apparatus handling possibilities.
Ribbon & Stick
Ribbon equipment consists of three important parts: the ribbon, stick and swivel connection. All three should work smoothly together.
Shorter ribbons are easier for younger gymnasts to control, while longer ribbons are typically used as gymnasts progress.
The stick should feel comfortable in the hand and allow precise control of spirals, snakes and large ribbon patterns.
A smooth swivel helps the ribbon move freely and reduces unnecessary twisting during routines.
Rope
Rope length is usually adjusted to the individual gymnast, making height more important than age alone.
Pull both ends upwards and check that the rope allows comfortable skipping, swings and apparatus handling.
Many gymnastics ropes can be adjusted to suit the gymnast's height and coach's preferred length.
The rope should move freely and maintain predictable movement during rotations and throws.
Training or Competition Equipment?
Not every gymnast needs competition-approved apparatus from day one.
Training Equipment
A practical choice for learning new skills, everyday practice and younger gymnasts who do not yet need competition specifications.
- Beginners
- Younger gymnasts
- Regular training
- Learning new apparatus skills
- Developing technique
Competition Equipment
Suitable for gymnasts who need apparatus that meets the requirements of their age category and competition level.
- Competitive gymnasts
- Advanced training
- Competition preparation
- FIG-approved apparatus where required
- Coach-approved specification
Clothing, Half Shoes & Accessories
The right apparatus is only part of a gymnast's equipment. Comfortable clothing and practical accessories make training and competition preparation much easier.
Half Shoes
Choose half shoes that fit securely without restricting movement. They should feel comfortable for turns, balances and long training sessions.
Training Clothing
Fitted tops, shorts and leggings allow coaches to see body alignment clearly while giving gymnasts freedom of movement.
Apparatus Storage
Cases and bags help protect balls, hoops, clubs, ribbons and other equipment during transport and storage.
Competition Essentials
Tape, hair accessories, spare apparatus items and protection accessories can make competition day much more organised.
Quick Equipment Guide
| Apparatus | Younger / Beginner | Advanced / Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Ball | Smaller ball can be easier to handle | Competition-sized ball where required |
| Hoop | Fit approximately to hip height | Correct competition size and weight |
| Clubs | Shorter clubs | Longer competition-style clubs |
| Ribbon | Shorter training ribbon | Competition length according to category |
| Stick | Comfortable lightweight stick | Competition specification where required |
| Rope | Adjust to gymnast's height | Adjust according to gymnast and coach |
Common Buying Mistakes
Oversized apparatus can make correct technique harder to learn.
Appearance matters, but size, grip, weight and suitability should come first.
Professional competition equipment is not always the best first choice for a beginner.
Always confirm competition apparatus requirements before ordering.
Equipment Care
Keep apparatus clean and dry after training.
Store balls at a suitable pressure and avoid extreme temperatures.
Keep ribbons rolled or stored properly to reduce creasing and tangling.
Use suitable covers and cases when transporting apparatus.
Inspect equipment regularly for damage before training and competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a beginner need FIG-approved equipment?
Not necessarily. Beginners can often start with suitable training apparatus. Competition-approved equipment becomes important when the gymnast's level or competition rules require it.
Should I choose apparatus by age or height?
Both can be useful, but height, body proportions, hand size and the gymnast's level often provide a better guide than age alone.
How do I know which hoop size to buy?
A practical guide is to stand the hoop vertically beside the gymnast. The top should reach approximately hip level. Always check with the coach for competition equipment.
Which ribbon length should I choose?
Shorter ribbons are generally easier for younger gymnasts to control. As the gymnast progresses, longer ribbons may be used according to age, level and competition requirements.
What if I am still unsure?
Ask your coach before ordering competition equipment, or contact PrimaRG and we will help you find the most suitable options available in our store.
Everything You Need to Perform
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