Applicable to both Men’s and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics
Definition: A scale is a static balance position where the gymnast stands on one leg while extending the other leg backward and upward, ideally to a position parallel to the ground or higher. The upper body is typically lowered to create a straight line from the toes of the raised leg through the body to the fingertips of the outstretched arms.
Explanation: Key points about scales in gymnastics:
- Apparatus: Scales can be performed on the balance beam for women and the floor exercise for both men and women.
- Variations: There are different types of scales, including:
- Front scale (leg extended forward)
- Side scale (leg extended to the side)
- Back scale (most common, leg extended backward)
- Judging criteria: Scales are evaluated based on factors such as:
- Balance and control
- Leg height
- Body alignment
- Hold time (typically 2 seconds for credit)
- Difficulty: The difficulty of a scale can increase with variations like:
- Holding the free leg with one or both hands
- Performing on relevé (on toes)
- Adding a turn
- Purpose: Scales demonstrate balance, flexibility, and strength, and are often used as connecting elements or to fulfill composition requirements.