How to Use a Balance Beam

Nov 16, 2009 | By Jonathan Croswell

Balance beams are one of the staple pieces of equipment used in gymnastics. It is simple enough to be taught to girls as young as three but complex enough to be featured in the Olympics. Balance beams are also good for improving simple motors skills and overall coordination, and you can use them as workout equipment as well. Unless you plan on doing tricks, you don't need an expensive, padded beam used by professional gymnasts---any beam 6 to 8 inches wide will do the trick.