Gymnastic Leotards

Gymnastic leotards have been very controversial for many years. The leotards in gymnastics are designed to help the gymnasts be more aerodynamic, move more freely, and they prevent the gymnasts from getting clothing caught up in gymnastic equipment. The light weight and elasticity of each leotard makes mobility much easier for gymnasts. This can help them greatly during bars, floor exercises, vault, and balance beam. During these events the gymnast can flip, turn, twist, and shape their bodies in many different ways. The versatility of the leotard has helped many gymnasts and should continue to be a great choice of apparel.

There are many different types of leotards that are used in gymnastics. They are usually composed of a Lycra, nylon, cotton, and spandex mix but other fabrics may be used to create the desired look and feel. Leotard styles are always changing. Gymnasts can purchase leotards in just about any color and style. There are leotards that have one shoulder, spaghetti strapped leotards, long sleeved leotards, and leotards with short sleeves.

Some leotards are uniquely designed to look like there are no straps. While indeed there must be straps to support the gymnast and keep her covered while she twists, turns, and flips, the unique design is very difficult to see that there are actually straps. These unique styles consist of a neutral colored mesh-type fabric that is attached to the visible fabric. Some of these “illusion” leotards have rhinestones on the mesh to give the leotards more style and flair.

The leotards can have an open back, crossed straps in the back, a covered back, and even specialty designed backs. Although the style of the leotard rarely affects the performance of a gymnast, the comfort of the gymnast is always first priority. If the gymnast is not comfortable and confident in the leotard they are wearing, their performance may be affected and their score can drop. Thus, the gymnast should always feel comfortable in the leotard chosen.

As we look at Olympic gymnasts, we see that most wear long sleeved leotards. This is because as the gymnasts perform and move from event to event, their muscles are being warmed up. The long sleeves can assist the gymnast and keep her muscles warm. This can help in preventing cramps or tightening muscles as well as reducing warm up time needed by the gymnasts. While it is always important for the gymnast to warm up, the long sleeve technique is a nice aid for each gymnast’s muscles and muscle strength.

Some popular gymnastics leotard brands include Nike, GK Elite, and Alpha Factor. As the brand worn is up to the gymnast, new gymnasts should try different brands before choosing a favorite. When gymnasts move to Olympic competitions, some leotard companies will sponsor the gymnast in return for the gymnast wearing their brand as an advertisement. Much like the way brands sponsor any other sport like NASCAR or in the NBA.

Gymnastic leotards can cost very little or a lot. It depends on the brand, style, fabric, store, and quality of the leotard itself. Gymnastic leotards can cost as little as $10 or can be as expensive as $100+. As most leotards do not get this high, most can be found in the general range from about $20 to $60. Some name brands are more expensive than the generic brands simply because of the name. Depending on what the gymnast is willing to pay, the quality of the more expensive leotards can be greatly appreciated.

Comfort is always priority when choosing a leotard. You should consider what styles you are comfortable with, what type of straps you prefer, and what color choices you prefer. If you do not like a specific blend of fabrics, you should probably not purchase a leotard with that blend. Choose a size that is body fitting but not too tight against your skin. You should be able to move, stretch, and flip in many different ways and the leotard should not affect your performance in any way. The style you choose should fit your personality, style, and lifestyle.