A Beginner's Guide to Leotards

Gymnasts and dancers will find it hard to imagine a world without leotards. Basic dancewear is generally composed of tights and leotards made of flexible fabric. Leotards are perfect for dancing and gymnastics because they allow ease of movement in a nonrestrictive material. If you have just enrolled in a gymnastics class and you don’t know anything about leotards, this guide can help you pick the best one for you.

History of leotards

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The leotard was invested by Jules Leotard in the nineteenth century, hence its name. Jules was an acrobat who developed a clothing prototype that covered the upper thighs. You may think of it as the earliest version of swimsuits for men. The garment was first worn by males because the tradition of the times forbids women to reveal their legs in public. The ladies wore knee-length tutus as dance costumes.

Importance of wearing proper gymnastics attired

Leotards are designed to let you move freely. They are made to skim the body so the instructor or coach can see your body movements and correct you if there are errors. Wearing shorts and shirt will not serve your purpose as a beginner. Loose clothing might cause distractions and improper execution of movements.

Choosing a style and design

The leotard style will depend on the season. If it’s summer, sleeveless or short-sleeve leotards are fine for practice. During the colder months, wearing of long-sleeved leotards is fine too. The leotard that you buy must fit well on your body. It should bunch around your waist or hips if it’s too large a size. The leotard should not be so small to avoid constantly yanking at your bottoms. A well-fitted leotard lets you move without distraction and discomfort. You will be able to focus on your routine and the instructions of your coach. When looking for leotards, go for lighter colors since they reveal areas of your body like the muscles. The instructor can clearly see how you flex and bend your body as you execute your gymnastics routine.

What to avoid

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When in class, wearing of jewelry is discouraged to avoid banging into someone else’s hand, watch or bracelet. Necklaces tend to bounce around your neck when you make jumping or leaping movements. This could be dangerous when in close proximity with other students in the class. It is best to leave your jewelry at home or inside your bag. Make sure your bag is secure in a locker to prevent theft. Small post earrings may be allowed.

Where to buy

Leotards can be bought at your local gymnastics club. Ask your school or gymnastics class instructor. They might be selling leotards for the convenience of students who are just beginners. If not, you can always ask for clothing shops that have leotards. Specialty stores selling dance and exercise clothes carry brands selling leotards. Prices may range from the affordable to expensive. Just stick to your budget and try only the leotards you can afford. If you are a fan of Internet shopping, you can order your leotard online and have it shipped to your doorstep the next day. This is only advisable if you know your size well. Inquire about the company’s return or exchange policy before purchasing.

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