Gymnastics Vault: An Artistic Apparatus and Event

The Apparatus

The gymnastics vault is an artistic gymnastics apparatus used in both training and competition. It consists of a rectangular table with two arched rails on top, separated by a narrow landing platform. Gymnasts perform vaults over the vaulting table, with the goal of landing cleanly and safely on their feet.

The Event

The vault event is one of four Olympic gymnastics events, along with the uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. In competition, gymnasts perform two vaults on the vaulting table. The first vault is usually a simpler vault, while the second is more difficult. The gymnasts' scores for each vault are combined to give a final score for the event.

The Yurchenko Double Pike

One of the most famous and challenging vaults in women's gymnastics is the Yurchenko double pike. This vault involves a roundoff onto the vaulting table, followed by a back handspring over the table, and finally a double pike somersault off the landing platform. The Yurchenko double pike is a high-scoring vault, but it is also very difficult to perform safely.

Rebeca Andrade's Historic Vault

At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Brazilian gymnast Rebeca Andrade made history when she became the first woman from her country to win an Olympic medal in artistic gymnastics. Andrade's vault was a standout performance, earning her a score of 14.933 and the silver medal in the all-around competition.

Conclusion

The gymnastics vault is an exciting and challenging event that showcases the strength, skill, and athleticism of gymnasts. From the Yurchenko double pike to Rebeca Andrade's historic vault, the vault event continues to amaze and inspire fans around the world.