The balance beam is the only piece of equipment that is only designed for woman’s gymnastics. It is made of wood, or metal, and it is just over 16 feet long. It is 4 inches wide and 4 inches deep. Most beams have a non-slip covering. Keeping posture, hand positions, and feet positions in place are important to remember.

During the floor exercises, the gymnast performs a routine based on the large, square floor. The basic spring floor is 40 feet by 40 feet. Most gymnasts add in music and dance moves. Boys’ routines generally do not use music. The floor is used for both boys and girls.  This event is the most well-known in gymnastics.

This event of the parallel bars is for women only. The idea was based off of the parallel bars, only for boys. Each bar is about 8 feet long. The bars are attached to metal or wooden bases. The different heights of the bars allow gymnasts of all sizes to perform carefully.

The parallel bars have two wooden bars held up by metal uprights on the sides. During competition, the bars can’t be any higher than 67 inches. Lower heights are used during practice. The bars are put 19 to 25 inches apart. The parallel bars are used for boys only.

The horizontal bar is also known as the high bar. The bar is 94 inches. It is made of steel and very flexible. Flexibility is needed to gain momentum while using the horizontal bar. For men, this is considered the most amazing event. During this event, the gymnast can be as high at 14 feet off the ground!

The vault is an event for both girls and boys. The only difference is that the vault is placed different. The vault is also known as the horse. The vault is padded and 3 feet, 7 inches high. A springboard is always in front of the vault. While training, gymnasts sometimes use mini trampolines instead.