However, this surface proved to be too slippery for gymnasts to perform on, so eventually beams like these were banned for safety reasons. Since then the balance beams have been made with a covering of leather or suede which offers more grip to the gymnasts.
Another difference that they have made to the balance beam in recent years is to add a certain amount of springiness in order to accommodate the jumps and things that the gymnast usually does on the beam during the course of her routine. Finally, another difference that has taken place with the balance beam is what is actually done on it by the gymnasts. When the event was first started, the routines that took place on it where much more focused on dance than they were on tumbling and acro skills.
Even at the elite level at first the routines mostly had various leaps and dance poses, with some other things like handstands and walkovers. Part of this was because it was around this same time that the beams started to be made safer with covered surfaces that were less slippery, thereby making the harder moves on the beam more practical. Nowadays the balance beam event has a number of different requirements for it, which in part depends on the level of the gymnast who is doing the routine.
However, each level must include some specified acrobatic skills, turns, and dance skills, some are only a certain number, but one thing that is more particular is the split leap which is mentioned by name as one thing that must be done in most levels. Other than that, deductions are also made for any errors that they make, such as if they visibly have to wave an arm to help with their balance or if their split leap does not reach the right angle. Other faults that can be a cause for points to be deducted are centered around the dismount which is also considered to be a part of the routine.
Points are deducted here if the gymnast takes a step, whether a small one or a big one, or struggles for a moment with their balance on landing off of the beam. Finally, the gymnast can also get a deduction if they fall off of the beam. They may get back on the beam and finish their routine if they are able to do so, but they have to do so in a certain amount of time or they are not allowed to. This amount of time is 10 seconds, which starts as soon as she hits the ground off of the beam.
A gymnast can use the springboard to mount the beam as long as it is an acknowledged mount. The routines should last up to 90 seconds, but there is not technically a minimum amount of time that the routine has to be as long as all of the required elements are met.
Since there are literally hundreds of different balance beams found on the internet, I made this video to help you differentiate between all of them and enable you to purchase the gymnastics beam best suited for your situation. As the name suggests, these beams are made out of a firm polyethylene foam. The Junior Balance Beams are a step up from the Beginner Beams in that these beams are manufactured with a wood core as opposed to foam.
They are covered with a padded suede very similar to what you find on competitive balance beams. Training Balance Beams are the last type of balance beams American Gymnast sells for home use. This beam would be best suited for girls that are already competing and want a solid balance beam that can accommodate all of their leaps and tumbling and dance skills. And yes, we sell those too … but we have them listed under our more general category here , since it is usually coaches or gym owners that are purchasing those.
Pros Easily storable Affordable Perfect for beginners and young gymnasts. Cons Durability concerns over time. Check On Amazon. It also features unique synthetic suede materials that are smooth and highly durable. This balance beam also comes with decorative stickers that make them attractive to kids.
Pros Foldable for easy storage Wide color selection Rated for lbs Carrying bag. Cons Slightly difficult to carry Carrying bag has durability issues. Key Features This high-quality balance beam is made of a wood core and high-density foam covered with soft suede material. It also features a solid metal base that makes it safe for high-end skill moves. Pros Adjustable legs 8 Feet long Durable construction.
Cons Expensive Not as portable as others. Key Features The Zelus Gymnastics Balance Beam features a unique water-resistant suede material that boosts its overall durability. It also comes with a solid hinge connection and an anti-slip base. This balance beam weighs only 11 lbs, and it has a core made of wood covered with super durable EVA material. Pros Affordable Folds for easy storage Carrying handle Non-slip base. Cons Damage through transit is normal. It features a well-built 6-inch base, 4-inch top, and an anti-slip base for extra stability.
This beam balance is made of high-density EVA foam wrapped with faux suede for unmatched comfort. Pros Tons of colors and designs Anti-slip bottom Carrying handle Durable.
Cons Unstable on flat surfaces Hinges not smooth, leading to trouble folding. It has a top surface width of 4 inches, a base width of 6 inches and it features an anti-slip base. This balance beam is fitted with extra pads for enhanced protection and a super durable vinyl beam surface. Pros Carrying handle Foldable Tons of color choices Rubber feet for increased stability. Cons Rubber feet may not sit flat, causing stability issues.
Juperbsky Balance Beam 7. Key Features This notable balance beam is 6 feet long, and it comes with a 4-inch surface. A unique feature of this incredible balance beam is the foldable and portable design that makes it perfect for on-the-go. Pros Foldable for easy transportation Perfect for young gymnasts Softer cushioning.
Cons Not many color choices Stabiltiy issues. Best Balance Beams Buying Guide We all stare in awe at the performances of professional gymnasts and cheerleaders. What are the factors to consider when buying a balance beam? At what age can kids start using a balance beam? What are the types of balance beams? On-ground Balance Beams As the name suggests, these floor beams make direct contact with the floor. Off-ground Balance Beams Moving up the spectrum, we have off-ground balance beams. Advanced height Balance Beams These models of balance beams are for professional athletes, and they quite common in high-end facilities that host competitions.
What are balance beams made of? Should balance beams be lightweight? What gives balance beams so much stability?
Are foldable balance beams better? Are all floor beams waterproof? Will my balance beam hold my weight? What can I do on a floor beam? Lucy spent the better part of her young life traveling and competing in swim meets and gymnastics.
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