How to Find Gymnastics Bar Beams

Balance beams come in a variety of sizes.

Many youngsters are attracted to the balance beam as a means of physical fitness and artistic expression. Skill level of participants in this gymnastics event can range from novice to internationally competitive. Balance beams come in a variety of heights and materials, but regulation for competition is a wood beam that measures 3.9 inches wide and 16 feet long, set 4 feet off the floor. Beams can be purchased or built according to the gymnast's level of expertise.

Instructions

1. Build a balance beam by obtaining four planks of pine that measure 8 feet long by 4 inches wide by 1 inch thick. Glue the pieces solidly together. Cover with suede or carpeting, stretching the material so it fits tightly around the wood pieces. Mount on low sawhorse-type braces, or support the beam by attaching three pieces of wood that measure 12 inches long by 4 inches wide by 2 inches thick. Attach the wood pieces perpendicular to the beam at 18 inches from each end and in the middle.

2. Purchase a practice beam from any number of Internet websites. For the beginning gymnast, a Low Training Beam is suggested. These are 6 inches wide, sit 3 inches off the floor, and are 8 feet long, half the regulation length. One advantage of this beam is that it is filled with polyethylene foam, which absorbs shock more readily than a wood surface. It is lightweight and can be folded and stored.

3. Locate an Internet site that sells lower-height beams for the more seasoned and serious gymnast who might use the low beam to learn new tumbling passes, jumps and turns. These beams are shorter than regulation length; they typically come in 6-, 8-, 10- or 12-foot lengths. he lower beams are usually covered in synthetic suede and padded for shock absorption.

4. Travel to a gymnasium to practice on a regulation balance beam. A competitive balance beam is four feet off the floor, which is a significant height if the gymnast is not used to it. Anyone practicing on it should be monitored by a professional coach.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are looking to purchase a regulation beam for your gym, be sure to check that it meets FIG competitive specifications.

References

• History of the Balance Beam
• NCAA - National Collegiate Athletic Association

Resources

• The Beam Store
• Low Padded Beam
• Low Beams
• Regulation Beam