What does gymnastics mean?
Gymnastics is both a system of physical training and a competitive sport. In its general sense, it refers to exercises that develop strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and control of the body. In its sporting sense, competitors perform judged routines on the floor and apparatus, with artistic and rhythmic gymnastics among the principal forms. The word can also be used figuratively for movements or arrangements that display agility, precision, or graceful control. Although gymnastics appears frequently in discussions of athletic training, it usually implies more deliberate control and technical refinement than ordinary exercise. Its historical connection with ancient Greek education is especially memorable: Greek athletes traditionally trained without clothing, and the related words gymnastics, gymnast, and gymnasium all reflect that origin. The term is therefore useful for describing both the physical discipline itself and the grace, precision, and disciplined control associated with it.
nounThe exercises and training methods used to develop strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, and physical control. By extension, it refers to the sport of performing judged routines and apparatus events.
- The competitive sport of performing exercises and routines judged for skill, control, difficulty, and execution.
- Exercises or a system of exercises designed to develop and maintain physical strength, flexibility, coordination, and control.
"Her dedication to gymnastics earned her a place on the national team."
"She has practiced gymnastics since she was six years old."
"Daily gymnastics improved his posture, balance, and general strength."
The noun has the same form in the singular and plural; it commonly appears as a mass noun but may take plural agreement, especially when referring to a performance or set of exercises.
"The gymnastics at the national championship were outstanding."
The ancient Greeks originally trained naked, giving us both “gymnastics” and the “gymnasium.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gymnastics come from?
English borrowed gymnastics from Latin, which had taken it from Greek gymnastikē, meaning exercise or training. The Greek adjective gymnastikos ultimately derives from gumnos, meaning naked, because ancient Greek athletes traditionally exercised without clothes. English usage developed from the early 17th century, and related English words include gymnast, gymnastic, and gymnasium.
Related word forms
How gymnastics is actually used
The word is commonly treated as a mass noun naming the activity or sport, although its ending can also take plural agreement in phrases such as “the gymnastics were impressive.” Usage is broadly similar in British and American English.
Easily confused with gymnastics
Gymnastics is the activity or sport, whereas a gymnast is the person who performs it.