Balance beams are gymnastics apparatus that are used for performing skills such as climbing, flipping, leaping, dancing and acrobatics. Balance beams are artistic gymnastics apparatus, which are most commonly used by female gymnasts. Gymnastics for women had not been recognized as World/Olympic championship sports for nearly 50 years after the inclusion of male gymnastics in Olympics.andnbsp; In order to perform a routine on a balance beam, the gymnasts mount the apparatus and depending upon the competition level, perform mounts such as climbing, flipping, leaping, dancing and acrobatics.
The routine usually lasts between 60 seconds to 90 seconds, depending upon the competition level. The choreography may typically include turns, acrobatic elements, dance poses and leaps performed either in combination or single. After the performance, the gymnast also needs to dismount the apparatus.
Specifications: Balance beams need to confirm to the specifications and guidelines set by the FIGandrsquo;s Apparatus Norms brochure. There are several companies that manufacture balance beams and distribute them. Basically, these beams are 125 cm high, 10 cm wide and 5 meters long.
Most of the gymnastic schools buy beams, which meet the standards of FIG but some of them may also use those with carpeted surface for practicing situations. At the time of learning gymnastics skills, gymnasts often use low beams which have same surface and dimensions as per the regulations but set only some inches above the ground. Learning gymnasts may also use mini beams, practice beams or the lines on mat.
History: In earlier days, beams were used in dance rather than tumbling. Routines at elite levels were also composed of combinations of dance poses, leaps, rolls, walkovers and handstands. During 1960s, one of the hardest acrobatic skills done by an average gymnast was back handspring. The difficulty of balance beam started increasing dramatically during the 1970s.
Nadia Comaneci and Olga Korbut pioneered aerial skills and advanced tumbling combinations on the beams after which other coaches and athletes started following suit. This change facilitated the transition of wood beams to less slippery and safe models with surfaces covered by suede. By mid 1980s, the top gymnasts performed multiple aerial elements and flight series on the beams. Today, the routines of balance beams still contain a mixture of dance elements, acrobatic skills, poses and leaps but with greater difficulty.
Materials used: Earlier, the surface of beams was plain wood. After that, some of the gymnasts started using beams made up of the basketball material but was banned because of its slipperiness. From 1980andrsquo;s, the beams are covered in suede or leather and are able to accommodate stress from dance skills and high difficulty tumbling.
People of all ages perform on balance beams depending upon their level of skill, physical strength and level of competition. The beam one selects should be as per the standards of FIG and should be able to provide protection to the lower part of the body of the gymnast.

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