The balance beam is one of the best-known elements of gymnastics, used regularly in practice and women's competition. Work on the beam emphasizes and strengthens your balance, though it also tests your control and focus. The balance beam has appeared in many forms throughout history, gradually evolving into the standard beam you see today.
History
The first known version of the balance beam dates to the 1700s, when Johan Christoph GutsMuths utilized a pine tree trunk to test the balance of young gymnasts. As the beam evolved, designers used smaller tree trunks, eventually cutting beams that were narrower than the width of your foot but still round in shape. A flat-topped beam developed later as part of Swedish physical education classes, which, as gymnasts began performing more tricks and stunts on the beam, became the basis for modern beam equipment.
Present Day
Modern full-size balance beams measure 4 inches wide and 16.4 feet long and are raised 4.1 feet off the ground; they are supported by a base at each end of the beam. Balance beam cores are still made of wood, but that wood is now overlaid with elastic and foam rubber, creating a safer surface on which to perform various tricks and stunts. The ends of the beams are also padded to prevent other potential injuries.
Practice
If you are interested in practicing gymnastics on a balance beam, or if you are simply seeking to improve your balance using a beam, there are many practice beams available for purchase. Practice beams maintain the standard 4-inch width, though their lengths vary. Most practice beams stay low to the ground, with the top surface rising only 7 or 8 inches off the floor, minimizing the risk of injury during practice. Some manufacturers will custom-make a practice beam, but most retailers sell mass-manufactured practice beams.
Skills
Gymnasts who compete on a balance beam must demonstrate varying skills at varying levels. Basic skills include steps, turns and small jumps, while more advanced skills include leaps, flips, handstands and poses. The average beam routine spans between 70 and 90 seconds, starting with a mount onto the beam and ending with a dismount into a landing mat.
Competitors
Pioneers in balance beam competition include Erika Zuchold, the first woman to perform a back handspring on a beam, Daniela Silivas, who performed the first neckstand on a balance beam, and Maxi Gnauck, who first used a back flip to mount the beam. More recent notable balance beam competitors include Shawn Johnson, Nastia Liukin, and Li Shanshan.
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