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From USA Gymnastics:
STILL RINGS
Stillness and proper body position while performing strength elements is paramount on the still rings. Gymnasts with the best command of the event will display extraordinary skill in arriving at all holds with absolute precision. The rings should be absolutely still and under control at the end of each skill. The body should be straight with no arching, and arms should be sturdy and strong with no shaking.
The still rings routine must include one swing to handstands and swings to strength hold elements. At least one element of strength must be held for two seconds during the routine.
Examples of strength elements include a cross, an inverted cross and a swallow or Maltese cross. A cross is performed in a straight body or L position with the body perpendicular to the floor and arms stretched perpendicular to the body, while an inverted cross is executed in an inverted handstand position with arms stretched perpendicular to the body. A swallow or Maltese cross is performed when the body in a straight position parallel to the floor at rings height. The rings must remain still throughout the routine. Deductions are taken for unnecessary swings and instability.
Today, the trend among gymnasts is to achieve the maximum start value for their routine by combining strength moves for bonus points.
Look for confidence in the strength elements. The gymnast should move directly into the proper and controlled position when performing his cross or Maltese, stopping securely for a full two seconds, and then move smoothly into the next part. During the swinging elements, watch for stretched body positions and straight handstands.
This event is difficult because:
It requires a great deal of upper body strength and it is almost impossible to obtain a high start value without strength moves in the routine. Gymnasts without excellent upper-body strength fail to score high on this event. If a gymnast does have a 10.0 start value, it often boils down to sticking the dismount in order to win.
What can we expect to see at the Olympic Games?
* Strength moves connected to strength moves that are held in a perfectly straight position for more than two seconds
* Straight handstand positions
* No movement of the feet during the landings (stuck dismounts)
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