Gymnasts from 53 countries competed at the World Championships, which for the first time was using the new code of points in Rhythmic Gymnastics.  Maximum of two gymnasts per country were allowed to compete in the individual competition, contending for top honors in the All-around as well as with each of the four handheld apparatus (Hoop, Ball, Clubs and Ribbon). Rhythmic Groups of five gymnasts were competing for the Group All-around title, as well as gold in apparatus finals with the 5 Hoops and 3 Balls/2 Ropes.