What you see as 'prancing' is really the most efficient way (and with fewest steps!) for the gymnast to reach the corner. On floor, a gymnast is required to execute tumbling runs from one corner to another. They must position themselves as best as possible (usually as far back into a corner as they can get!) before they execute those runs so that they don't run out of space when completing the next tumbling sequence.
Floor exercise used to be as much about dance moves as about tumbling. Not so, these days, but ... there's still an element of classical dance (many of the top gymnasts have extensive classical ballet training) and 'grace' expected between those explosive raw-power tumbling runs.
They should get rid of floor exercise for men, it makes them look girly. They should have a flying trapeze thing instead. Or they could climb a rope and swing around from rope to rope like Tarzan, doing flips and tricks.
i follow gymnastics, but not a gymnastics expert, but i think that when they land, if they dont stick the landing, they can prance out of it and even if they do, they do it to be consistent so judges dont deduct points. dont quote me on it though.
It's basically to make sure they start their next sequence right in the corner of the mat so they have the maximum amount of room to complete it.
Because when they go to sleep at night they dream they are unicorns....
So we can admire their perfectly formed butts?
I know the tumbling they do isn't easy, but I don't understand then completely unnecessary prancing between the acrobatics that they perform. Is this a requirement of some sort? It doesn't look as though it requires any talent - just looks silly. Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks :)
