Acrobatics

ACROBATICS (from Greek akrobatein - to walk on tiptoes), physical exercises based on the development of strength, agility, speed, coordination, plasticity, which as a result of prolonged training are brought to perfection. To A. belong exercises on gymnastic apparatus (horizontal bar, parallel bars, trapeze, rings, etc.), walking on a rope, jumps, flights, balancing, etc. A. is one of the types of performing art and plays a major role in the modern circus, theater and cinema. In its most developed form, A. is a special profession (acrobats), associated with specific professional hazards and the danger of injuries (bruises, dislocations, fractures). A tendency toward acrobatics is sometimes observed in physical education when exercising on apparatus according to the 'falcon' system of gymnastics, when young people begin to become fascinated with dangerous tricks on trapezes, parallel bars, etc., turning healthy gymnastic exercises

ACROMEGALY

into a peculiar gymnastic and trick sport. In addition to the mentioned hazards and dangers, the negative side of the fascination with A. also lies in the fact that it displaces in young people interest in more rational physical exercises and leads them to stuffy and dusty rooms, instead of activities in the fresh air.