Lisbon becomes this week the world capital of Gymnastics, with the celebration of the fifth edition of the FIG World Gymnastics for Life Challenge.
More than 3,700 gymnasts from 33 countries come together to celebrate an event that goes beyond competition: it promotes creativity, diversity and community spirit under the Gymnastics for All movement.
An event for everyone
Organized by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) every four years, the Gymnastics for Life World Challenge is open to participants of all ages, genders, cultures and skill levels. This edition marks a vibrant return, following the cancellation in 2021 due to the pandemic.
Endorsed by UNESCO
UNESCO has granted its official patronage to the event, highlighting its key role in promoting inclusive sport and physical activity for all, in line with the global Fit for Life initiative.
What is the Gymnastics for Life World Challenge?
It is an event where gymnastics groups (in which all people can participate, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, culture, ability or social position), present routines with or without apparatus, accompanied by music, combining technique, art and spectacle. It is an opportunity to:
- Appearing before an international jury
- Participate in workshops and cultural activities
- Enjoy an event full of color, movement and inspiration.
History of the event:
- 2009: Dornbirn, Austria
- 2013: Cape Town, South Africa
- 2017: Vestfold, Norway
- 2021: (cancelled due to pandemic)
- 2025: Lisbon, Portugal
Record participation
This year, 3,729 gymnasts from 140 clubs and 33 countries are participating. The most numerous delegations are:
- 🇩🇪 Germany: 747 participants
- 🇵🇹 Portugal: 717 participants
- 🇬🇷 Greece: 622 participants
Brazil is participating for our Pan-American region with 24 people.
Competition and creativity: how it works
Groups can compete in one of four categories, depending on the type of routine and the size of the group:
- Gymnastics and dance – small group (20)
- Gymnastics and dance – large group (21)
- Gymnastics or with large apparatus – small group (20)
- Gymnastics or with large apparatus – large group (21)
Each presentation lasts a maximum of 5 minutes and is evaluated by two panels of judges, under the following criteria:
- Entertainment value
- Originality and innovation
- Technology and safety
- Overall impression
How is it rewarded?
- Gold: for the groups with the highest score in each category
- Silver and bronze: distributed among other participants
- All gymnasts receive a medal for their participation.
In addition, the groups that win gold participate in the Gym for Life Gala, where the prestigious Bruno Grandi Trophy is awarded to the best of the best.
Where to follow the event?
Check out start lists, results and more on the official official FIG website y ginastica.tv
