Gymnastics in Mexico: Evolution and practice
A glimpse into the gymnastics practiced at the Benito Juárez sports center and its cultural importance.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
Pre-Hispanic roots
Gymnastics in Mexico has ancestral origins, tied to the acrobatic practices of pre-Hispanic cultures. These activities, integrated into military practices and rituals, laid the foundations for the development of the population's physical abilities.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
European influence
In the 19th century, gymnastics saw a resurgence thanks to European influences. In 1846, Juan Turin, who studied under Francisco Amorós, introduced the first gymnasium to Mexico City, marking the start of modern gymnastics in Mexico.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
International outreach
The creation of the Comité Olímpico Mexicano (Mexican Olympic Committee, COM) in 1923 and the Federación Mexicana de Gimnasia (Mexican Gymnastics Federation, FMG) in 1926 bolstered Mexican gymnasts' international participation in competitions such as the Olympic Games and World Championships.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
Space to triumph
In the years to come, many facilities were created to promote sports, including the Benito Juarez Sports Center where individual and community development is promoted through sport.
Several disciplines of gymnastics are practiced here:
Artistic gymnastics
This includes apparatus such as rings, parallel bars and the floor. What makes it special is its combination of strength, precision and grace.
Rhythmic gymnastics
This uses elements such as ribbons, hoops and balls, with a focus on elegance, choreography and artistic expression.
Trampoline gymnastics
This includes acrobatic exercises on trampolines, promoting agility and aerial dexterity.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
Social gymnastics
These disciplines transcend barriers, promoting sporting spirit in the heart of the community. Gymnastics isn't just a sport; it's a social tool. It promotes equality, teaching us the values of cooperation and mutual respect.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
Beyond the sport
Gymnastics goes way beyond physical training. It is an ultimate expression of the human spirit and helps people who practice it to express themselves.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
Community and gymnastics
Gymnastics in Benito Juárez doesn't just create athletes; it also creates community, forging bonds of learning, wellbeing and coexistence.
Benito Juarez Sports Center (2023-11-15) by Alejandro Rodriguez TorresAlcaldía Benito Juárez
The future of a legacy
Gymnastics, which is rooted in Mexican culture and is constantly evolving, remains a cultural and sporting pillar that fosters a better community.
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