How to Use a Balance Beam
The balance beam is a gymnastics standby. It requires skill, control, and focus to master, but most anyone can learn the basics.
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You Will Need
- Low balance beam
- Beam shoes (optional)
- Mats (optional)
- Spotter or coach (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Warm up
Warm your body up with stretches.
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Step 2
Start low
Use a low balance beam that is close to the floor. Practice walking back and forth on the beam without losing your balance.
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Place mats around the beam to cushion you if you fall.
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Step 3
Walk on your tip-toes
Walk across the beam on your tip-toes and practice your balance by keeping your hands on your hips and moving forward as you place your toes down on the beam.
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Step 4
Add new moves
Gradually add new moves to your practice as your confidence increases. Start with cartwheels and then move on to more complex moves.
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Use a spotter or get a coach for more complex balance beam moves.
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Step 5
Train
Train off the beam three to four days a week, toning your body and improving your flexibility. Practice balance beam moves three to four times a week to improve your balance and skills.
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Gymnast Nadia Comaneci set a world record for the most 10 scores at the Olympic Games in 1976.
