Are Dance Leotards the Same as Gymnastics Leotards?

In a pinch, you may be able to substitute a gymnastics leotard for a dance class or a private workout.

However, you won’t be able to get away with it for a performance or competition.

Dance leotards come in a wider array of styles and offer more options than gymnastics leotards.

Dance leos often have cutouts in the back, lace overlay or low necklines.

Gymnastics leotards, on the other hand, come in two styles -- tank top or long sleeve.

The tank top straps are 2 to 3 inches wide and the neckline on gymnastics leotards is near the collarbone.

Due to the rigorous nature of tumbling, gymnastics leotards need to have wider straps to stay up.

Long sleeve leotards are used primarily for competition and may also help protect the gymnast's skin from a fall off an apparatus.

Some children's leotards have attached shorts attached called a biketard.

Dance leotards are commonly made from a blend of materials like cotton, polyester, nylon or spandex.

Gymnastics leotards can be made from the same fibers as dance leotards, but typically have a higher percentage of spandex.

Back handsprings and other aerial movements performed by gymnasts typically require leotards with more flexible fabric than those required for dance.