Acrobatics (from Greek Akros, high and bat, walking) is one of the performing arts, and is also practiced as a sport. Acrobatics involves difficult feats of balance, agility and coordination. Nearly any performance or sport which involves full-body activity – especially in short, highly controlled bursts of activity – can be considered acrobatics, and there is substantial overlap with dance, various sports such as diving and even religious practices.

History

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Western history

Acrobatic traditions are found in many cultures. In the West, Minoan art from circa 2000 BC contains depictions of acrobatic feats on the backs of bulls, which may have been a religious ritual. ^*

The court displays of the European Middle Ages would often involve acrobatic performances along with song, juggling and other activities.

More on [ Acrobatics ]

NPR Topics: Performing Arts

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