Gymnastics Artistry Isn’t Real Artistry

Wait! Hear me out.

Gymnastics artistry IS a thing, and it can be taught and improved. However, the definition of gymnastics artistry is not the same as dance’s definition of artistry. Artistry in gymnastics refers to an aesthetic specific to the sport. It includes elements like extension, body lines, clean shapes, and precise movements, all of which are taught in practice and reinforced in choreography. 

Artistry in dance is more than just an aesthetic, though great technique is part of it. Artistry in dance is about art.  There’s more focus on things like emotions, storytelling, performing, and interpreting the music. 

Generally, artistry in gymnastics doesn’t emphasize personal expression. It focuses almost entirely on aesthetics. That’s why so many floor routines rely more on poses than actual dancing. And that’s also how we ended up with the genre of “gymnastics dance.” We’re teaching gymnasts to pose, not to perform. Of course, there are exceptions. Some gymnasts are natural dancers and performers (I was one of them, and now I am a dancer). But for most gymnasts, performance and expression don’t come naturally.

This is especially obvious in USAG’s compulsory routines, where transitions between movements are nearly nonexistent. As coaches, we’re constantly telling gymnasts to "stay tight," listening only for the accents in the music instead of responding to the music as a whole. Just look at how we ask gymnasts to walk on and off the floor: straight legs, stiff arms, and very little room for personality aside from “smile!” And then, when they reach optionals, we expect them to perform flawlessly and show their personalities on floor instead of looking like robots during their routines. See the disconnect? 

Now contrast that with the Australian compulsory program. They use fun, engaging music and make a real effort to infuse personality and elements of actual dancing into the routines. Sure, there are still poses and sharp movements—they’re gymnasts, not dancers—but it’s a completely different vibe.

Is it possible to change this? Yes and no.

Gymnastics artistry isn’t going anywhere. It’s an aesthetic that’s deeply tied to the sport. I believe that’s because gymnasts spend most of their training focused on staying tight and controlled, so it makes sense that this style of movement is the default.

However, that doesn’t mean the definition of artistry in dance can’t be introduced and prioritized more within gymnastics. Emotion, expression, and storytelling can be taught and woven into floor routines. This can happen through exposure to diverse dance styles that contrast traditional gymnastics movement, by helping gymnasts feel more comfortable and vulnerable on the floor, and by teaching true performance skills.

This also opens up more creative opportunities for both gymnasts and choreographers to expand beyond the gymnastics style of dance and explore new elements of artistry.

If you want to bring real artistry and expression into your gymnastics program through choreography, dance training, or both, let’s talk! We can help you build routines and skills that go beyond just poses and truly connect with the music and performance.

Reach out to learn how Stellar can support your gym with new, effective ways to improve artistry and movement quality!