Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We have compiled a list of frequently asked Questions to help you better understand rhythmic gymnastics as well as the recreational and competitive programmes offered at Ritmika R.G. Club
- How old must your child be to sign up for rhythmic gymnastics?
- How old is too old for Rhythmic Gymnastics?
- What to wear?
- Do I have to purchase any rhythmic gymnastics equipment?
- Do you have any boys who take RG classes?
- How many practises does my child need to take?
- How can one join the Elite /AGG and competitive streams?
- Do you have a year-end show(s)?
How old must your child be to sign up for rhythmic gymnastics?
Ritmika R.G. Club will accept children as young as 3 provided they are toilet trained and they are comfortable with being in the gym without a parent or guardian. It is up to parents to determine their child's readiness for enrolment in our programmes.
How old is too old for Rhythmic Gymnastics?
You're never too old to enjoy rhythmic gymnastics. In fact we have, in our programmes, families who have three generations (grandmother, mother and daughter) participating. Some gymnasts come to Ritmika in their early teens. We have classes for all age groups and levels. We have ladies who are well over their 70-s and not showing any signs of slowing down. That's one of the great things about rhythmic gymnastics - It can be enjoyed at any age.
What to wear?
For recreational classes: black body suit and black shorts or tights, bare feet or gym/dance slippers.
For Elite, AGG and Competitive stream gymnasts, a club warm up suit and tights or shorts and toe shoes must be worn. Gymnasts in these programmes must also purchase a Ritmika Club tracksuit that will be worn while attending and travelling to different events and competitions.
For adult classes, comfortable exercise clothing is recommended.
We recommend two suppliers with whom we have established good relationships.
- Dance Essentials (80 Bass Pro Mills Drive, Unit # 10. Tel 905-731-9957 www.danceessentials.ca) - located just around the corner from our facility.
- Second Skin Fashion (Yonge and Royal Orchard Tel 905-731-2629) Mention you are member of Ritmika R.G. Club and you will get 10-15% discount.
All long hair must be tied back and NO jewellery PLEASE.
Do I have to purchase any rhythmic gymnastics equipment?
For recreational programmes we provide all the equipment at no cost to participants.
Our Elite and Competitive stream athletes must purchase appropriate equipment needed for their level. We recommend Romsports Division of D.A.M.E. Inc. (4545 Lacombe, Montreal, QC. Tel: 1-877 733-3121 www.romsport.com)
Do you have any boys who take RG classes?
We accept and encourage boys up to 6 yrs old to participate in our recreational children's classes.
How many practises does my child need to take?
The number of practises your child takes will vary according to the type of program they are in.
Our recreational program gymnasts may choose one or two classes per week. The choice is theirs. We recommend two for overall faster development.
Gymnasts who are in our Elite/AGG and Competitive programmes are required to take mandatory practises according to their levels and Coach. (Please refer to the latest Elite/AGG and competitive schedule).
How can one join the Elite /AGG and competitive streams?
Gymnasts in our Elite/AGG and Competitive streams are selected by our coaches from our existing recreational classes or by try-out. You should also be aware that the level of commitment from recreational to competitive increases significantly. Most of our competitive programmes require practises at least three days a week. Competition season usually starts from the end of February and goes until the beginning of June.
Gymnasts participate in 2 to 4 competitions a year. Some require local travel. Gymnasts who are in higher levels also travel internationally.
Do you have a year-end show(s)?
Yes, our Annual Christmas Show is held at Ritmika Centre in December and a Spring Show in May. Our Spring Show is held in a theatre, where children can truly look forward to demonstrating their accomplishments by performing for family and friends, and gain valuable performance experience. There is minimum rental cost for costumes and equipment.