Gymnastics Beams For Home
2 mins read

Gymnastics Beams For Home

A gymnastics beam for the home is a fabulous tool and activity for any little gym-lover. I’d argue that balance beams are the most applicable, affordable, and safest piece of home gymnastics equipment. Thinking of investing in a beam?
The trick is finding the type of beam that meets your family’s specific needs and home set-up.  Read on, for an evaluation of types of beams, options within each type, and where to purchase.  

Beam mat: Purchase If

(a) You are buying for a young child (2 – 5). Beam mats accommodate smaller bodies & challenge younger minds. Find fun uses for beam mats here.

(b) Your gymnast has yet to declare their commitment to the sport. Beam mats are a relatively low investment and a tool that can enhance a child’s desire to practice.

(c) You are looking for cute, practical decor. Beam mats come in an array of bright colors and are a fun accent for playrooms and bedrooms!

Floor Beam: Purchase If

(a) You have little or no room for storage. Floor beams can easily be stored under furniture. Many models fold in half providing greater opportunities for “out of sight” storage. If you don’t have much space, get a floor beam!

(b) You are looking for portability. Floor beams transfer inside/outside, upstairs/downstairs, or to another home and back with ease. A great pack-along for vacations too!

(c) Your child has fear. Floor beams allow gymnasts to gain confidence through repetition. Because height is not a factor, gymnasts can focus on technique and accuracy of intermediate skills.

8’ Beam: Purchase If

(a) You have adequate space. An 8 ft long beam is a reasonable option for many families. This is an adequate length for practice of individual skills such as handstands, cartwheels, back walkovers, etc. If later you have more space or desire competition beam length (16 ft), you can purchase an adjourning second beam.

(b) Your child likes a challenge. Low beams provide a comparable feel to workout beams used at the gym, more so than floor beams or mats. Note that a high beam is not necessary (or recommended when practicing at home).

(c) you desire a variety of uses. Low beams are great for practicing skills, conditioning assignments, and games. In the future, Gym Gab will provide fun/effective ways to use your home beam.

12’ 16’ Beam: Purchase If

(1) Your gymnast is older or at a higher skill level. Older/taller gymnasts (approx. 12 <) will require more length when practicing skills. If any gymnast desires to practice a sequence of skills, the 16 ft beam is encouraged.  Don’t forget to purchase mats!

(2) You desire a beam comparable to your gym’s equipment. Competition beams are 16 ft in length. Routines are choreographed to use the entire length of the balance beam. Gymnasts wanting to practice routines will benefit from a 12 or 16-foot length.

(3) You view this purchase as a long-term investment. There are several 6 & 8 ft beam options that can be combined to create a greater length (allowing for longevity of use). If you know you have the space, and funds, and desire the benefits, then purchase the longer beam!