User:IraG/Traveling rings

Traveling rings (aka Travelling rings) are a gymnastic apparatus similar to still rings and flying rings.

Traveling rings are unique physical fitness equipment that provide enjoyable and challenging exercise for the whole body.

Apparatus
Outdoors, the free-standing apparatus consists of support posts and a top beam from which 8-10 rings, spaced 7-8 feet apart, hang on swivel chains 6-7 feet above the ground. Chain length is what creates the swing. It should never be less than 8ft from the point of anchor. Anything less creates rigidity to be destructive for performers' shoulders. A little bit longer will give a slower and more flexible swing. The swivel is usually installed between ring and chain. The perfect dimensions for advanced traveling ringers are the original and biggest structure located at Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica. Chains are slightly shorter than what they used to be in 2005. Nothing shorter should ever be built or be more than 8ft apart for safety reasons. In a gymnasium or other indoor setting the rings are hung from a beam with the number and distance between them dependent upon the space.

History and Installations

 * Traveling rings have existed on Santa Monica Beach, where they have been a popular California attraction, since the 1960's.
 * Traveling rings were installed in New York City's Riverside Park in 2004 and a set of junior rings was added in 2005.
 * Traveling rings have been installed at various gyms owned by Sam Tribble. They are currently installed at Giants Gymnastics in Tustin, CA.
 * An indoor set exists at the Arlington Baths Club in Glasgow, Scotland at least since March 2008.
 * A set over the swimming pool exists at the Western Baths Club in Glasgow, Scotland
 * The Henry Barnard School, a laboratory school for grades 1-5 affiliated with Rhode Island College in Providence, installed indoor traveling rings in their gym in 2010.
 * A set was installed on Brown Street Park in Providence, RI, in 2010.

The Performance
Rings enthusiasts (ringers) "travel" from one ring to the next by using their arms, legs, and trunk to build momentum. The swivels enable them to perform spins, flips, and other creative techniques. Alternately, the user may use two adjacent rings in the manner of flying rings. Two adjacent rings may also be used in the manner of still rings though this is not easy as the rings are much further apart.

Safety features
No nets or other safety devices are used apart from a forgiving landing material like sand or wood chips.