Gymnastics

Special Olympics gymnastics combines strength, flexibility and artistry. Competitions are offered for men in the artistic events and women in artistic and rhythmic events. As in all Special Olympics sports, athletes are grouped in competition divisions according to the athletes' ability level, age and gender.

Gymnastics is one of Special Olympics' expanding sports. It was first included as an official sport in the 1972 World Games, only eleven athlete competed in tumbling and free exercise routines. By the 1995 World Games this sport included 367 competitors representing 17 countries. Internationally, over 44 countries offer Special Olympics gymnastic programs.