How does the figurative language used in lines 7-12 contribute to the poem?

Aurelia Dobre: World Champion Gymnast

Spins clockwork,
then oscillates
between the bars.
Time waits
as she unwinds.
Walks the plank.
Defies the natural order.
Points toes
to test the water.
Walks on that
Skims and ducks
and drakes
across the mat.
Creates
ripples of applause.
Computes her vault
on magnetic
tape.
The kick
is muscle memory.
Traces her geometry;
spirals, circles.
No straight edge,
all curves, curls,
and smiles.