The gymnastics vault, often referred to simply as the “vault,” is one of the apparatuses used in artistic gymnastics. It is a critical component of both men’s and women’s gymnastics and involves a combination of speed, power, and precise technique. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the gymnastics vault:
Description and Equipment
- Vault Table: The vault consists of a table-like apparatus that is about 1.35 meters (4 feet 5 inches) high. This table is padded for safety and provides a stable surface for gymnasts to push off.
- Runway: Gymnasts sprint down a runway that is approximately 25 meters (82 feet) long to gain the necessary speed and power for the vault.
- Springboard: At the end of the runway, gymnasts use a springboard to propel themselves off the ground and onto the vault table. The springboard helps generate additional height and force.
Performing the Vault
- Approach: The gymnast begins with a sprint down the runway to build speed.
- Takeoff: The gymnast jumps off the springboard and makes contact with the vault table. This phase requires precise timing and technique to ensure a smooth transition onto the table.
- Flight Phase: After contact with the vault table, the gymnast executes a series of acrobatic moves in the air. This phase includes flips, twists, or other gymnastic skills.
- Landing: The final phase is the landing, where the gymnast must stick the landing or minimize movement to receive high scores. A controlled and stable landing is crucial for a good performance.
Types of Vaults
Vaults are categorized into different types based on the skills and techniques performed. Some common vaults include:
- Yurchenko: A vault that begins with a round-off entry onto the vault table and includes a back handspring. The gymnast then performs a somersault or twist in the air.
- Tsukahara: A vault that involves a round-off entry onto the table followed by a salto or twist. This vault is named after the Japanese gymnast who popularized it.
- Podkopayeva: A vault that involves a handspring onto the vault followed by a front somersault with a twist.
Scoring and Judging
- Execution: Judges assess the gymnast’s technique, including the approach, vault execution, and landing. Points are deducted for mistakes such as poor form, lack of height, and wobbly landings.
- Difficulty: The difficulty of the vault is also considered in scoring. More complex vaults with additional twists or somersaults receive higher difficulty scores.
- Amplitude: The height and distance achieved during the vault are important factors. Higher and more controlled vaults typically receive better scores.
Safety and Training
- Safety: Vaulting involves significant risk due to the high speeds and heights involved. Proper training, technique, and safety measures are essential to prevent injuries.
- Training: Gymnasts practice vaulting with progressive drills, including the use of mats, spotting equipment, and gradual increases in difficulty to build the necessary skills and confidence.
Conclusion
The vault is a spectacular and challenging apparatus in gymnastics that requires a combination of speed, strength, precision, and skill. It is a key event in gymnastics competitions, showcasing the gymnast’s ability to execute complex aerial maneuvers and land with control.