Acrobatics

Acrobatics (Latin: akrobateō — climb upward) is usually understood as

• a kind of physical exercises;
• a kind of performing arts;
• a sport.

Acrobatics requires extraordinary balance, agility, flexibility, control, concentration and motor coordination. A person who performs acrobatics is called an acrobat. Acrobatic skills were known in ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome and China. In the 19th century, acrobatic performance became popular in circuses of Europe. In the 20th century it became an organized sport with leagues and championships.