A front scale rotation. In the gymnastics Code of Points, the element is called a penché (a French term meaning “leaning”), but unofficially gymnasts call it a screwdriver rotation, because visually it resembles the movement of the tool.
It is one of the most popular elements in rhythmic gymnastics – a rotation during which the gymnast bends forward above 90 degrees or even lower, extending the free leg skywards into a full split.
Good stretching is very important for a good penché, as a full split is required. The rotation can be executed both on a flat foot and on a relevé (pivot), which means to rise up on demi-pointe. However, switching from a flat foot to a demi-pointe and vice versa it is not allowed while performing the rotation.
Previously, the rotation was predominately performed on a relevé, with gymnasts making few turns, just two or three. During the recent Olympic cycles, the value of rotations has significantly increased, and to receive higher scores gymnasts have started to perform rotations on a flat foot.
Gymnasts often execute a penché in combination with other elements: for example, transition to a ring rotation, or changing a penché to a front split pivot.
High-class athletes include screwdriver rotations in practically all their routines. Lala Kramarenko is the record holder for the number of turns performed on the carpet. She is the only gymnast who is capable of making 7-8 rotations at a time.