How to Choose Music for Gymnastics

Gymnastics routines are oftentimes performed at competitions to be judged by a panel of officials.  These routines are practiced and thought out carefully and the music that accompanies them should be chosen with the same care that is put into the routine itself.

• Choose a musical selection that is the correct length for the gymnastics performance that you are giving.  Time your routine or ask a coach to do it for you so that you know exactly how long your song needs to be.


• Pick music that is in pace with your gymnastics movements.  If your movements are fast and you are quickly moving from one area to the next then, choose a fast paced song.  For slower movements you should pick a slower paced song.


• If you are choosing a song to perform a routine at a competition, make sure that you are aware of any regulations that you need to follow when selecting your music.  Also, you may need to choose your music from a list that is provided to you from the competition officials so make sure that you know if this is the case.  


• Look for a song that does not have vocals.  Instrumental music will be much more appropriate for gymnastics routines and many times music with vocals will not even be allowed at competitions.  Vocals also will distract from the routine that you are performing.


• Choose a musical selection that you personally like.  You will be practicing your routine a number of times and a song that you like will make for much more enjoyable practices.  You also want to feel positive about your performance and music you like will add to your positive attitude.


• Choose a few different songs if you are unsure about the music that you wish to accompany your performance.  Ask a friend or family member to watch your routine with the different selections and advise you on which one works the best.