Artistic gymnastics is one of the most popular disciplines of gymnastics and it is generally characterized by the use of
artistic gymnastics apparatus. It is always one of the most watched events in the Olympic Games in any other sporting event where they are featured.
There are various apparatus that are used in artistic gymnastics. Some of these are: the vault table and springboard, the balance beam, the rings, the parallel bars, and the pommel horse.
In the Vault event, gymnasts need to be able to use two apparatus efficiently. That is, they need to be adept at using both the vault table and the springboard. The Vault event requires gymnasts to perform acrobatic movements using these two apparatus. The springboard is the equipment that is used by the gymnasts to help propel them onto the vault. It is made out of a platform with several springs attached under it. The number of springs determines the strength of the propulsion thus they are checked and adjusted before every event. The vault on the other hand is the apparatus upon which the gymnast lands on (inverted and with their hands) before vaulting off into their main move. The vault measures 120 centimeters in length and 95 centimeters in width. The height for men is 135 centimeters while the height for women is 125 centimeters.
The balance beam is the apparatus used in the gymnastic event that is also called Balance Beam. It is a long and narrow structure that is held up at both ends by a stand or a leg. Earlier designs of the beam featured a surface that was made out of plain polished wood. The modern balance beams however are now fully covered in leather, or, depending on manufacturer, suede. Modern beams also feature springs to help it absorb the myriad of forces it suffers during a performance. The official measurements for a balance beam are: 125 centimeters for height, 500 centimeters for length, and 10 centimeters for width.
The still rings are the rings used in the artistic gymnastic event “Still Rings”. This apparatus is made up of a pair of rings that are attached freely to a sturdy frame via a heavy strap and steel cables. Each of these rings has an inner diameter that measures 18 centimeters. Meanwhile, the distance from the inner side of the ring to the point where it attaches to the frame must be 300 centimeters. Finally, the distance between one point of attachment to another must be 50 centimeters.
The parallel bars, as its name suggests, is composed of two parallel bars that are arranged parallel to the floor and held together and raised above the floor by metal stands. It is used in the event also called Parallel Bars. The bars are usually made entirely out of wood; however, there are some bars that are made out of a different material on the inside while their outer most covering is made out of wood.
Just like the other apparatus, the pommel horse is used in the event that shares its name. The original pommel horses were made out of wood that was covered in leather. However, newer models are now made out of metal and are covered with leather that is reinforced by foam. The handles – or pommels – are made out of high quality plastic.
