parallel bars (redirected from Parallel bars (gymnastics))

parallel bars

Paul Hamm (U.S.) competes on the parallel bars during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

(credit: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Event in men's gymnastics in which a pair of wooden bars supported horizontally above the floor at the same height is used to perform acrobatic feats. Competitors combine swings and vaults with stationary positions requiring strength and balance, though swings and vaults must predominate. It has been included as an Olympic gymnastics event since the modern games began in 1896. See also uneven parallel bars.