Rhythmic Gymnastics

Owen Sound Hummingbirds

The Owen Sound Hummingbirds Rhythmic Gymnastics began as a brand new club in January 2016. We began in January 2016 and haven’t looked back!  We were ever-so grateful to the Satellites Gymnastics Club and Florin Matei, the Head Coach, who welcomed us with open arms into their club and use of their facilities.  Since 2019, our “home” has been at Dancemakers in Owen Sound.  It’s an amazing space and we so appreciate the warm welcome from Mikja Hooper, the owner of Dancemakers.   In 2019, three of our athletes qualified to compete in the Provincial Spring Games and we were all ever so proud of them.  Each year, the Hummingbirds compete in local competitions in Oshawa and London. 

Rhythmic gymnastics combines elements of ballet, gymnastics, dance and apparatus manipulation. It helps athletes develop strength, flexibility, and artistry.  Rhythmic Gymnastics has a variety of apparatus, depending upon the competition level. The apparatus can include: Ribbon, Rope, Ball, Hoop, Clubs and a Floor Exercise.  There are levels of competition (if the athlete indeed wishes to compete).  Please note,  for competition, the head coach will determine which level is appropriate for the gymnast, based on knowledge of the routine and ability to perform the skills. 

Level A and B; are for athletes with mobility issues as they are seated routines

Level 1 - 3; are compulsory routines (meaning each athlete does the same routine)

Level 4; optional routines (original choreography with required elements)

Each week, we work on fitness, beginning with a fun warm-up,  a cardio workout, flexibility and balance skills.  This is followed by practicing the skills and routines of the sport, using hoops, ribbons, balls, clubs and rope.

We practice each Wednesday, 2:30pm – 3:45 p.m., under the expert coaching of Head Coach Paula Mercer, a qualified gymnastics coach, dance teacher and Pilates instructor. Come out and enjoy the fun!