Yes, this is a gymnastics-focused website and blog, but have you ever wondered why gymnasts wear leotards and not bodysuits? What is a unitard? What is the difference between leotards, unitards, biketards, and bodysuits? Let's talk about it.
1. Leotards
Leotards are the quintessential choice for gymnasts across all levels. Why? They were created purposely to be a sleek, one-piece garment designed to fit snugly against the body, offering maximum flexibility and allowing gymnasts to execute their routines with grace and precision. In gymnastics, they are known to have unique designs, patterns, prints, and embellishments. They are always long-sleeved for competitions and sleeveless for practice. However, many other sports use leotards as well. They might not have bright colors or rhinestones on them, but they are used to slim the figure in whatever sport or act is being performed.
Leotards are the popular apparel used by gymnasts, dancers, acrobats, figure skaters, actors, wrestlers, and circus performers.
2. Unitards
Unitards are a one-piece outfit that covers the entire body, from neck to usually the ankle, offering a sleek and streamlined appearance. The main difference between these garments and leotards is the added coverage on the bottom half of the body, having the leg holes cover at least the thighs if not the entire leg. While less common than leotards, unitards allow gymnasts to make a bold fashion statement while still maintaining the freedom of movement required for their routines however they are not used for competitions. They are an alternative if an athlete would like something more modest or safe when performing/competing.
Athletes that commonly use unitards are: acrobats, gymnasts, dancers, equestrian vaulters, athletes, circus performers, and cyclists.
3. Biketards
Biketards are similar to unitards. They're particularly popular for younger gymnasts and those involved in more casual training sessions. The biketards usually cover down to the mid-thigh, used for practice.
Biketards are worn by: acrobats, gymnasts, dancers, equestrian vaulters, athletes, circus performers
4. Bodysuits
Bodysuits, although look like a leotard, are one piece cloth used for regular casual wear. They often have a more athletic or sporty appearance, with features such as zippered fronts or racerback designs but not really used for sports. While still providing the snug fit and flexibility of a leotard, bodysuits are more for casual attire or dress wear, used in fashion. They have no elasticity or moisture wicking materials to benefit an athlete. They cover the torso and crotch area and usually have buttons to fasten on the bottom.
Conclusion
If you're a gymnast competing, you'll likely wear a leotard. You will usually be required to wear one with long sleeves. If you are practicing, you are likely to wear either a long-sleeved leo, sleeveless leo, a unitard, or a biketard. After practice, go ahead and wear a bodysuit with your favorite pair of jeans for a nice dinner! :)
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