Horizontal bar

Dimensions

The mechanical dimensions of the horizontal bar apparatus are specified in FIG's Apparatus Norms brochure:

• Height: 278 cm (109 in) (including about 30 cm (12 in) landing mats)
• Length: 240 cm (94 in)
• Diameter of the bar: 2.8 cm (1.1 in)

Grips

How a gymnast grasps the horizontal bar is called the grip (not to be confused with the suede leather grips worn on the hands). Each grip is commonly used for a particular set of skills. When gymnasts compete on the horizontal bar, they are often required by the Code of Points to use specific grips.

• The overhand grip, or regular grip, is the standard grip used for the horizontal bar. On the overhand grip, the hands circle the bar with the backs of the hands facing the gymnast.
• A dorsal grip (also known as the dorsal hang) is an overhand grip employed while the gymnast's legs pass through the arms into a "skin the cat" position. The overhand grip is used in giant swings, and the dorsal grip in German Giant Swings.
• The reverse grip and underhand grip, is the opposite of the overhand grip. The palms of the hands face the gymnast. This grip is similar to the grip used in chin-ups. Forward giant swings are among the skills that use this grip.
• The elgrip is also an underhand grip, In an elgrip or L-Grip or eagle grip a gymnasts hands are turned 180 degrees outward from an over grip. Thumbs are turned out, but in the opposite direction of an undergrip. This position requires flexible shoulders to swing comfortably.
• The mixed grip combines the overhand and underhand grips with one hand in each position. This grip can be used to gain more height on release skills.

Routines

Under the FIG Code of Points for men's artistic gymnastics, horizontal bar routines are dynamic presentations demonstrating "the full potential of the apparatus." They consist of the fluid connection of swinging, turning, and flight elements performed without pauses near to and far from the bar in a variety of hand grips.

International level routines

A horizontal bar routine should contain at least one element from all element groups:

• I. Long hang swings with and without turns
• II. Flight elements
• III. In bar and Adler elements
• IV. Dismounts

Scoring and rules

Gymnasts receive deductions for lack of form and errors. Specific errors on the horizontal bar include bent or separated legs, pauses, low amplitude in flight elements, bent arms, regrips, elements not continuing in their intended direction, and deviations from the plane of movement.