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Which apparatus are used in rhythmic gymnastics routines?

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Simone Biles of Team United States performs a flip above the balance beam during the Women's Balance Beam Final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. — gymnastics Simone Biles performing on the balance beam at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (delayed until 2021). She won a bronze medal in the event.

In rhythmic gymnastics, athletes perform routines using five specific types of hand apparatus. These include:

Rope: The length is determined by the height of the individual gymnast.1
Hoop: Made of plastic or wood, with an interior diameter ranging from 80 to 90 cm.1
Ball: Made of plastic or rubber, measuring 18 to 20 cm in diameter and weighing at least 400 grams.1
Clubs: Used in a pair, each measuring 40 to 50 cm in length and weighing a minimum of 150 grams.1
Ribbon: A satin strip at least 6 meters long, attached to a flexible stick or cane measuring 50 to 60 cm.1

These apparatus are central to the sport, which emphasizes artistic skill, fluidity of movement, and expression over vigorous acrobatics. While individual routines feature one apparatus, group routines may involve all members using the same apparatus or a mix of different ones.12