The term “gymnaestrada” simply put refers to gymnastics, “gymna” and the street, “strada”, hence the commonly known interpretation of “street gymnastics”. It provides opportunity for all types of performances - from the very advanced to less complicated programs adapted to less skilled participants. It focuses on mass participation, making it possible to reach all categories of people - from the youngest children to senior citizens to the physically challenged.

General gymnastics offers a wide range of exercise programs from gymnastics with or without apparatus to dance, games, and exercise programs. It develops health, fitness and social integration and contributes towards physical and psychological well-being of individuals.

As early as the second half of the 19th century, countries like Sweden, Norway, Austria, Germany and Switzerland held National Gymnastics Festivals. Out of these festivals grew the idea of an International Gymnastics Festival, which was held for the first time in 1939 in Stockholm with 12 nations participating. At the 1950 general assembly, the International Gymnastics Festival was officially included in the Federal of International Gymnastics schedule of events under the name of “Gymnaestrada” which occurs once every three years. The year preceding the international festival, each country has a national event to prepare a “national routine” to represent their country. Next year’s international event will be held in Portugal.

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