The balance beam is a gymnastics apparatus that according to the International Gymnastics Federation regulations must be perched 4 feet high and is 4 inches wide by 16 1/2 feet long. Professional gymnasts perform daring tricks on the balancing beam, including jumps, acrobatic leaps and balancing poses for up to 1 minute, 30 seconds. For individuals learning gymnastics, learning how to walk on the beam is the first step to mastering other balancing tricks that require confidence and determination.
Step 1
Wear tight and comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely and keep your balance while on the beam.
Step 2
Powder your feet with gym chalk that will keep your feet dry to prevent you from slipping off the beam.
Step 3
Start with a balancing beam that is on the floor. If you must use a raised beam, place thick gym pads underneath it that will serve as a safety precaution in case you lose your balance and fall off while learning.
Step 4
Step onto the beam or have someone help you up if it's risen off the ground and stand still until you gain your balance.
Step 5
Feel the width of the beam with your feet to get a mental note of the surface you will be walking on.
Step 6
Raise and point one foot, then the other on the spot to feel what it's like to stand on the beam with one foot.
Step 7
Take your first step with your arms stretched to your sides at shoulder height for balance and the toes of the foot that is stepping forward pointed. Taking a step with pointed toes helps you retain your balance because it allows your body weight to distribute evenly once you land your step.
Step 8
Pause to feel yourself grounded, then take the next step in the same fashion, keeping your feet close together one in front of the other and your arms stretched out.
Step 9
Turn around when you make it to the end of the beam and try going back by walking sideways. You will not have as much of your foot's surface area on the beam and it might be easier to lose your balance but it is a good exercise for this same reason.
Step 10
Try walking backward once you have mastered going back and forth facing straight ahead and sideways.
Tips and Warnings
- Look at your feet when you are in need of balance and mental support. If you can't stay on its better to jump off rather than wait to fall off.
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