The Laser Balance Beam: Revolutionizing Gymnastics Training

tumbl trak laser beam

Gymnastics continually evolves with innovative and helpful training equipment. Among these advancements, the Gymnastics Laser Beam by Tumbl Trak stands out, redefining the way gymnasts train for balance and precision. This article delves into the world of an innovative type of balance beam highlighting its unique features and benefits.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laser Balance Beam offers a safe and effective way for gymnasts of all levels to enhance their balance and technique.
  • Unlike traditional beams, this modern equipment comes with visual guides for better spatial awareness and skill execution.
  • It looks and feels like a competitive balance beam used in professional gyms.

Tumbl Trak Laser Beam: A Closer Look

The Tumbl Trak Laser Beam, a paradigm shift in gymnastics training, caters to both gym and home environments. Its 7-inch width, marked with lines and numbers, provides visual cues essential for learning precise movements​​. The beam comes in two variants:

  • Laser Beam Lite: 8 feet long, ideal for home practice​​.
  • Laser Beam PRO: 16 feet, mirroring competition standards​​.

Tumbl Trak is a well-known and long-established company with an excellent reputation for manufacturing gymnastics equipment for gyms and the home.

Advantages of the Gymnastics Laser Beam

This beam is not just a training tool but a confidence builder, especially useful for gymnasts working on advanced skills like full twists or turns​​. Its design emphasizes safety with a low height and padded surface, making it suitable for gymnasts at different stages of their journey​​.

It builds confidence because it’s slightly wider than a competitive beam found in gymnastics clubs and it’s at floor level, eliminating the fear of falling off.

However, the width of a traditional beam is marked in white along the length of the beam so gymnasts are trained to become aware of their position and grow in confidence when they consistently perform skills within the narrower lines.

laser beam close up

Setting Up and Using the Laser Beam

Setting up the Laser Beam for the first time is straightforward, with no assembly required – it’s straight out of the box. The beam’s low height and stable design ensure a safe training space. However, it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines, including using mats for more advanced beam skills.

Despite its floor-level setup, injuries can still occur whilst using the Laser Beam. Gymnasts must take care to position it with adequate space around on all sides and have a stable and level floor surface.

Enhancing Home Training with the Laser Beam

The Laser Beam isn’t just for professional gyms; it’s an excellent addition to any home gymnastics setup. It allows gymnasts to safely practice and refine their skills, ensuring continuous improvement. The one drawback with the laser beam compared to some other beams is that it takes up a fair amount of storage space.

Other beams for home practice are inflatable and can be easily stored once deflated. If storage allows, the laser beam has many more advantages than an inflatable one.

Discover more about the wonders of home gymnastics training at Home Gymnastics Beam Training is Awesome.

Training Techniques on the Laser Beam

Training on the Laser Beam is a dynamic process, involving a gradual increase in difficulty and a focus on precision. Here are some essential techniques gymnasts can practice:

  • Walks and Balances: Perfecting walks on the beam is crucial. Practice walking forward, backward, and on tiptoes to enhance balance and posture​​.
  • Jumps and Leaps: These exercises are vital for building power and coordination. Start with basic jumps and progress to more complex leaps and straddle jumps​​.
  • Turns: Master different turning techniques, such as pirouettes, to improve balance and grace​​.

For more detailed insights into beam skills and their unique execution, check out these Balance Beam Skills That Nobody Does (anymore), which offers a fresh perspective on beam techniques.

Progressive Skill Development

A structured approach to skill development on the Laser Beam is key:

  • Beginner Level: Focus on basic skills like walking and simple jumps. Establishing a strong foundation is crucial for future progress​​.
  • Intermediate Level: Gradually introduce more challenging skills like cartwheels and handstands. This phase is about combining movements and enhancing flexibility​​.
  • Advanced Level: Incorporate complex skills such as aerials and back handsprings. Precision and technique refinement are essential at this stage​​.

Choreographing Routines on the Laser Beam

Creating a beam routine is an art. Here’s how to choreograph a routine that showcases your strengths:

  1. Identify Strengths: Start by recognizing your best skills, be it jumps, turns, or balances.
  2. Strong Opening: Capture attention with a dynamic start.
  3. Diverse Skills: Include a variety of elements to demonstrate versatility.
  4. Smooth Transitions: Ensure fluidity between movements for aesthetic appeal.
  5. Impressive Finish: Conclude with a high-difficulty skill for a lasting impact​​.

Mental Preparation for Gymnastics

Mental preparation is as crucial as physical training. Techniques like visualization and positive self-talk can significantly enhance performance. Setting realistic goals and managing anxiety are also important aspects of mental training​​.

Final Thoughts

The gymnastics laser beam has helped improve the confidence and skills of thousands of young gymnasts. Its revolutionary design focused on spatial awareness and replicating the feel of a professional beam, even at home.

FAQs

What is a laser beam in gymnastics?

A laser beam in gymnastics is the name for the training beam sold by Tumbl Trak. The name derives from the brightly colored lines that run along the top which are designed to improve awareness and balance.

What is a gymnastics beam called?

A gymnastics beam is also called a balance beam. The beam is 16 feet long and only 4 inches wide and used in Women’s Artistic gymnastics. Gymnasts perform sequences of leaps, spins and acrobatic skills to demonstrate balance and control.

What is a low beam in gymnastics?

A low beam in gymnastics is used as a training progression for new and harder skills. A full-height beam is 4 feet high however a low beam can be much lower or even placed flat on the floor.

What is a Level 1 gymnast?

A level 1 gymnast is at the first step of the Development Program Level structure. They are typically four or five years old and train 2 – 3 hours per week.