On the Alina Kabaeva Sky Grace Rhythmic Gymnastics Academy website, you can now find out interesting facts about rhythmic gymnastics.
Did you know that the very first object in rhythmic gymnastics was a ball? It became part of the program for Soviet female athletes in 1934.
The first ball was different from the ones we are used to today - it was similar to a tennis ball. Due to its small size, gymnasts had to show special agility. Gradually, the diameter of the ball increased and, in addition to throwing it from hand to hand, the athletes began to perform body rolls.
Now the diameter of the ball must be from 18 to 20 centimeters, and it must weigh at least 400 grams, in order to be used in competitions.