Discipline's origin

   Gymnastics is an ancient sport which was practised in various forms in ancient Greece and Rome. Gymnastics competitions are, however, relatively modern. The modern development of gymnastics began in the mid-19th century in Europe. Gymnastics societies were formed in Germany (Turnvereins) and the Bohemian part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (Sokols). Similar societies formed in France and Switzerland and then spread generally throughout Europe.

   In 1881, the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) was formed to organise competitions. Modern competitive gymnastics has developed from two systems: the German turnverein system that emphasised muscular development and apparatus work of a formal nature, and the Swedish system of free exercises that focused on developing rhythmic movements.

   Olympic history

   As of 1 January 1999, trampoline became a discipline of gymnastics at the Olympic Games. Trampoline competitions for both men and women were added to the Olympic programme and made their debut during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Credit: IOC

For further info., please visit http://www.olympic.org/uk/sports/programme/disciplines_uk.asp?DiscCode=GT.