- A remote and artistic origin
- The birth of men's rhythmic gymnastics
- Progress towards equality
- Inclusion and pioneers in Spain and internationally
- The challenge of reaching the Olympic Games
-
Did you know…?
A remote and artistic origin
Rhythmic gymnastics has very ancient roots that go back to classical Greece, where the term "gymnastics" covered any type of physical exercise. There is also evidence of similar practices in China around 2600 BC and in ancient Egypt, where soft, rhythmic movements were performed for ceremonial purposes or physical wellbeing. However, it was not until the 18th century that it began to be conceived as a sporting practice with educational aims. From there, rhythmic gymnastics took shape thanks to the influence of disciplines such as classical ballet, the German system (focused on muscular work with apparatus) and the Swedish method, which promoted free movement to develop rhythm and body expression.
Although rhythmic gymnastics is now mainly associated with women, historically there were also male practices that shared the same principles. Before the 20th century, in European schools and gymnasiums, men performed rhythmic and coordinative exercises, combining body movements, jumps and throws with objects, with the aim of improving strength, flexibility and body expression. In some countries, these male exercises were even used as physical preparation for other sports or military disciplines.
At the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, this tradition became more formalised in educational competitions and male exhibitions, especially in countries such as Japan, where men's rhythmic gymnastics evolved into an organised sport. In Europe, these practices were less visible, but they served as a foundation for Spain, decades later, to become the first European country to organise national championships exclusively for men in rhythmic gymnastics, setting a historic precedent that still inspires male gymnasts today.
The birth of men's rhythmic gymnastics
Although rhythmic gymnastics has been considered a women's sport, male practice also exists, especially in Japan, where it officially emerged in 1949. This variant, known as Men’s Rhythmic Gymnastics (MRG), has a more martial and dynamic style, with a strong acrobatic component.
In 2003, the first World Championship in men's rhythmic gymnastics was held in Japan, with the participation of five countries: Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the USA and Canada.
Currently, the FIG officially recognises only the Japanese discipline (MRG) for men, and does not regulate men's rhythmic gymnastics with traditional apparatus (ribbon, hoop, rope, clubs and ball), as practised in Spain and other countries.
Progress towards equality
In 2020, the Royal Spanish Gymnastics Federation (RFEG) created the First Men's Category, made up of the six best male gymnasts in the country. That same year, mixed teams were officially permitted in national championships, including experimental categories in which teams of 1 to 4 people, made up of boys and girls, can be formed.
In addition, events such as Euskalgym, in the Basque Country, have been key in raising the profile of this discipline internationally, allowing the participation of mixed teams and giving space to male gymnasts.
Inclusion and pioneers in Spain and internationally
The First Spanish Individual Men's Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship was held in 2009 as the first official competition separate for men, with Rubén Orihuela as senior champion and Ismael del Valle as junior champion. Despite the initial refusal of the FIG to recognise this category, the championship was finally organised after considerable pressure. Since then, Spain has normalised male participation in national competitions and in international events such as Euskalgym, which since 2014 has given visibility to male gymnasts.
Internationally, Japan set the pace with Hikaru Tanaka and Yusuke Tanaka, pioneers of Men’s Rhythmic Gymnastics, while gymnasts such as Samuel Paquin brought this style to Canada. In Spain, figures such as Rubén Orihuela, Álvaro Pradas, Aitor González and David Martínez have been fundamental in consolidating men's discipline and mixed teams, promoting equality and visibility within a sport that has historically been female.
The challenge of reaching the Olympic Games
Despite its growth, men's rhythmic gymnastics is still not an Olympic discipline. To enter the Olympic programme, this discipline must be official in a sufficient number of countries and have an established organisational structure.
Currently, countries such as Spain, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Greece and France are promoting male practice. In Brazil, for example, there are plans to make it official at national level, and in France the scoring of teams already allows routines performed by boys and girls. Despite significant progress and efforts by many countries, the threshold required for Olympic recognition has not yet been reached.
Everything suggests that this achievement is getting closer all the time, as long as more countries join and federations and international bodies coordinate their efforts.
Did you know…?
- Spain’s Rubén Orihuela was the first male gymnast in the world to hold a federation licence in rhythmic gymnastics.
- In Japan, men's rhythmic gymnastics has approximately 1,500 participants, which demonstrates its popularity and acceptance in the country.
- In the 2024 Spanish Individual Men's Championship, 81 gymnasts from 17 regional federations took part, highlighting the diversity and national reach of the discipline.
Conclusion
Men's rhythmic gymnastics has covered a long way in a very short time. Although it still faces institutional barriers, the drive of outstanding athletes, new talents, the opening of national championships and the work of federations such as the Spanish one are firm steps towards real equality.
Breaking gender stereotypes and opening this sport up to everyone not only enriches its practice, but also upholds the Olympic values of inclusion, respect and striving for excellence.
Perhaps it won't be long before we see male rhythmic gymnasts shine at the Olympic Games too.
