A gymnastics leotard may appear to be a very basic garment. However, in the same way that a swimsuit is designed to help an athlete pass through the water, a leotard is designed to enhance a gymnast's movements. Beyond purely functional concerns, a leotard may also be designed to add flair to a performance, particularly during more expressive, artistic routines.
History
The leotard commemorates the French trapeze artist Jules Léotard, who wore such a garment when he was performing, says the Word-Origins website (see Resources). Jules Léotard was born in 1842 and died in 1870 at the age of 28. During his short life, Léotard impressed audiences with his daring trapeze stunts. He called his tight-fitting outfit a "maillot." It was only after his death that similar outfits became known as leotards.
Practical Design
Leotards are designed with specific requirements in mind. According to the Gymnastic website (in Resources), leotards "help the gymnasts be more aerodynamic, move more freely, and they prevent the gymnasts from getting clothing caught up in gymnastic equipment." Many leotards are sleeveless but some competitors prefer long-sleeved versions. Long sleeves help to keep arm muscles warm and relaxed between events.
Materials
Leotards are made from lightweight elastic materials that do not restrict the gymnast's movements. The first leotards were made from cotton and nylon. Modern leotards are generally made from Lycra or spandex.
Styles
Leotards are designed foremost to aid a gymnast's movements. However, style is also important in terms of overall presentation. Women's leotards tend to be more decorative than those worn by men. They are available in a variety of colors and may include additional decorative items. Elements like sparkles, studs, rhinestones, shimmer and glitter provide a gymnast with plenty of options, says the SC Gymnastics website (see Resources). Different types of straps offer further stylistic possibilities. These include racerback, criss cross and spaghetti strap designs. Men's leotards are cut in a different way than women's leotards, with a lower cut on both the groin and chest area. Male gymnasts often wear shorts over their leotards.
Competition Regulations
Most international gymnastics competitions are regulated by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique, or FIG. Detailed dress regulations are listed in the FIG Code of Points and must be followed by all gymnasts. These rules state, "Correct aerobics attire must be in non-transparent material and undergarments must not be shown." Women must wear a one-piece leotard. The cut of the leotard at the top of the legs must not go higher than the waist, and the leotard must cover the crotch completely. Men are allowed to wear "a unitard or shorts with a form fitting top or leotard." Gymnasts who do not follow these rules will lose points when judging takes place.
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