by UCLA gymnastics has long been known for its innovative and creative floor routines. The team, which is consistently ranked among the top in the nation, has a reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional gymnastics and incorporating elements of dance, theater, and art into their performances.
One of the ways in which UCLA gymnastics stands out from the competition is through its use of floor exercise routines that color outside the lines. While most gymnastics teams stick to the standard formula of tumbling passes, jumps, and leaps, UCLA gymnasts take it a step further by incorporating unique and unexpected elements into their routines.
For the UCLA gymnasts, floor exercise is not just about executing difficult skills – it’s about telling a story, expressing emotion, and connecting with the audience. Each routine is carefully choreographed to showcase the gymnast’s personality and strengths, and to create a memorable and impactful performance.
One of the most iconic floor routines in UCLA gymnastics history was performed by former gymnast Katelyn Ohashi. In 2019, Ohashi’s floor routine went viral, amassing millions of views on social media and capturing the hearts of fans around the world. The routine, set to a medley of Michael Jackson songs, was a perfect example of how UCLA gymnastics uses floor exercise to color outside the lines.
Ohashi’s routine was a high-energy and entertaining showcase of her incredible athleticism and infectious personality. But what set it apart from other routines was its creativity and originality. Ohashi incorporated elements of hip-hop, breakdancing, and even a moonwalk into her routine, defying traditional gymnastics norms and creating a performance that was truly one-of-a-kind.
But it’s not just Ohashi who has pushed the boundaries of floor exercise at UCLA. Current gymnasts like Margzetta Frazier, Nia Dennis, and Chae Campbell have all wowed audiences with their innovative and dynamic routines. Frazier, known for her expressive and theatrical performances, often incorporates elements of jazz and contemporary dance into her routines. Dennis, a powerful and dynamic gymnast, is known for her high-flying tumbling passes and bold choreography. And Campbell, a graceful and poised gymnast, captivates audiences with her elegance and precision.
These gymnasts, and many others on the UCLA team, bring a level of artistry and creativity to their floor routines that is unparalleled in the world of gymnastics. By infusing their routines with elements of dance, theater, and personal expression, they are able to connect with audiences on a deeper and more emotional level, creating performances that are both technically impressive and artistically compelling.
But why does UCLA gymnastics place such a strong emphasis on creativity and originality in their floor routines? The answer lies in the team’s coaching staff, led by head coach Chris Waller. Waller, a former UCLA gymnast himself, understands the power of storytelling and emotional connection in gymnastics. He encourages his gymnasts to express themselves through their routines, to take risks and think outside the box, and to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport.
Under Waller’s guidance, UCLA gymnastics has become known for its fearless and innovative approach to floor exercise. The team’s routines are a reflection of their individual personalities and passions, and each gymnast is able to showcase their unique strengths and style through their performances.
In addition to their creative approach to floor exercise, UCLA gymnastics also sets itself apart through its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The team is known for its diverse roster of athletes from a wide range of backgrounds, and for its dedication to promoting social justice and equality within the sport. This commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the team’s routines, which often incorporate themes of empowerment, unity, and celebration of diversity.
Ultimately, UCLA gymnastics uses floor exercise to color outside the lines because they understand that gymnastics is not just a sport – it’s an art form. By blending athleticism with creativity, technique with expression, they are able to create performances that are not only visually stunning and technically impressive, but also deeply meaningful and emotionally resonant.
As UCLA gymnastics continues to push the boundaries of traditional gymnastics and redefine what is possible on the floor exercise, they are inspiring a new generation of athletes to think outside the box, take risks, and express themselves authentically. And in doing so, they are helping to shape the future of gymnastics as a sport that celebrates individuality, creativity, and the power of storytelling.
