With a width of only 4 inches and standing at just about 4 feet above the ground, the balance beam requires precise movements, poise, strength and a developed sense of stability.

The beam’s steep learning curve usually requires gymnasts to start with easy movements, such as walking forward and backward and eventually progressing to more advanced skills including leaps, jumps and tumbling moves.

Beginner Steps

Simply walking on the balance beam can be challenging for the novice gymnast. Acclimating to the height and narrow width of the beam is your goal.