The first step in correct planning and programming of activities in rhythmic gymnastics is selection and orientation of girls for engagement in this sport. Achieving top results in rhythmic gymnastics requires specific morphological characteristics of female gymnasts, including predominantly proportional body development, ideal weight, perfect body constitution, and absence of subcutaneous fat tissue. According to the usual practice, girls come in contact with gymnastic sports through developmental gymnastics, after which further selection is done based on morphological characteristics. The sample of 97 girls at the age of 7-8, from nine towns in Vojvodina, engaged in developmental gymnastics for at least one year, was tested for limiting effects of the girls' anthropometric characteristics on selection for rhythmic gymnastics. According to the current standard for body height and Brock index for that age, the sample of girls was reduced to 11 girls fulfilling these criteria. Apart from the conclusion that developmental gymnastics is a good sports activity for girls wishing to play rhythmic gymnastics, based on the comparison with FIG standards for general population, a conclusion is drawn that 7-8-year old girls being selected for rhythmic gymnastics have higher body height and lower body mass than their peers.
