Rhythmic gymnastics involves creating a dance routine to music; gymnasts use small props such as a ribbon, ball, clubs, hoops or a rope. The routine can be a solo or group performance and includes various elements including jumps, twists, turns, tumbles, leaps and various flexibility movements. Important physical abilities needed to become a successful rhythmic gymnast include flexibility, strength, agility and hand-eye coordination. Rhythmic gymnastics can be taught without the need for expensive equipment or specialized training.
Step 1
Determine the lessons and goals you wish to teach and create a lesson plan. Keep track of progress and/or setbacks with each lesson.
Step 2
Be familiar with each maneuver, movements or tricks that you plan on teaching for each rhythmic gymnastics event.
Step 3
Perform the movement, maneuver or trick for your students as you provide verbal instruction.
Step 4
Keep instructional time to a few minutes in order to maximize practice time. Use this time to offer individual assistance to those who appear to struggle with the lesson.
Step 5
Encourage group learning. Pair a student who appears to understand the lesson with a student who appears to struggle, or set up small groups and encourage the students to learn from each other.
Step 6
Teach each movement, maneuver or rhythmic gymnastics trick incrementally. Start off by encouraging students to draw a simple shape with the ribbon, for example, then move onto more elaborate shapes such as animals or letters.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure there is a spotter with children at all times.
Things You'll Need
- Ribbon
- Ball
- Hoop
- Club
- Rope
