It is considered one of the most difficult apparatus to master. The final piece of apparatus for women is the uneven bars. These are 3.5m long, one being 2.4m above the ground, the other 1.6m above the ground. Gymnasts swing around each bar swinging between each and changing grip as they move from bar to bar. They are 3.5m in length.
Routines require a great deal of upper body strength.
They involve swings, flight and hold elements. Men also compete on a single horizontal bar. Unlike the parallel bars, which are wooden, the horizontal bar is made of polished steel. It is positioned 2.5m above the floor and is 2.5m long. Gymnasts swing around the bar changing body position and grips as they swing.