When introducing your child to gymnastics, the balance beam is the perfect equipment to start with. However, not just any balance beam will do: you have to think about the child’s safety, skill development, and perhaps most importantly, fun. Given that there are balance beams of all shapes and sizes out there, it is important to first understand some crucial factors to consider when choosing a balance beam for your child. Let’s help you make the right decision.
Age and Skill Level: Finding the Right Fit
The first and most important decision to consider when selecting a balance beam for your child is the child’s age and level of skill. Balance beams vary in height, style, and each of them is best suitable to children at different stages in their gymnastic journey. Making the wrong choice could not only dampen the child interest and ambition, but put them in danger.
Choosing For Toddlers and Young Children:
There is only one kind of balance beam to get for a toddler: a floor beam. That is because, at this early age, safety must come first. Floor beams offer the most safety: they are placed directly on the floor or just a few inches above, and there is no risk of the child falling from a significant height. Floor beams are also made of soft materials with surfaces that are safe and forgiving. Needless to say, there is absolutely no need to hurry with toddlers: even a beam that is only 2-4 inches high should be enough to build their balancing skills.
For Intermediate Skill Levels:
“Intermediate skill” refers to that period when your child already has a basic understanding of balance and is ready to start trying turns, simple acrobatics or more advanced routines. At this time, you might want to gradually progress them to a slightly elevated beam. A beam that is 6-12 inches off the ground offers a bit more of a challenge while still being low enough to the ground to reduce the risk of injury.
At any point beyond this, you have to get an adjustable beam. The child’s skills will continue to grow (sometimes faster that you imagine), and having a beam that can be raised or lowered to accommodate their growing abilities will save you a lot of time and money. With an adjustable beam, you make an investment that grows with the child.
Material: Balancing Safety and Realism
Carefully examine the material of the balance beam before making your mind up. The material determines child’s level of comfort, safety and overall performance. Check out these common materials used in balance beams:
Suede-Covered Beams
Suede-covered beams such as Zelus’ gymnastics foldable beam are good because they are designed to mimic the feel of the competition beams used in professional gymnastics. The texture of the suede makes all the difference: providing just the right amount of grip. These beams are typically made of wood or metal and are padded with a thin layer of foam for comfort. If you have plans for your child to pursue professional gymnastics, then a Suede-covered beam is where to start from.
Foam Beams
Foam beams are an excellent choice for younger children or beginners. They are made entirely of foam, making them soft and safe for little ones who are still learning the basics. What makes these beams even more amazing is that they are lightweight and easy to move: and so, you can easily set up and take down the beam frequently. Foam beams do not offer that level of realism and professionalism as suede-covered beams, but they are perfect for a child who is just building the foundational gymnastics skills.
Portability: Convenience and Storage Considerations
With children, you will probably need to move the beam frequently, especially if you have limited space. So, you have to consider portability. Fortunately, some balance beams are designed with portability in mind, and these would suit you and your child nicely. Check out these examples:
Foldable or Sectional Beams
These beams are designed to be compact and easy to store when not in use. The advantage of foldable beams is that you can collapse them into a smaller size, while sectional beams come in multiple pieces that you can connect or disconnect as needed. With these beams, lack of space is not a limitation as you can set them up when needed and easily store them away when not.
Lightweight Models
If you worry about the stress of having to move the beam frequently, you might want to consider a lightweight model. Foam beams are naturally lightweight, but even some wooden or suede-covered beams are designed to be easy to move. Look for beams with handles or other features that make them easier to carry.
Ideally, a balance beam should be both foldable ad lightweight. ZelusFitness’ Blue Gymnastic Balance Beam is not only foldable, but weighs just 11 lb. It comes with an integrated carry handle that makes it easy to carry around for fun, or to be carried along for summer camping trips or weekend getaways.
Length: Matching the Beam to Your Space and Child’s Needs
The length of the balance beam is another key consideration. Beams come in various lengths, and the right one for your child will depend on their age, skill level, and the amount of space available.
Shorter Beams (4-8 feet)
If your home really has limited space, or your child is just newly introduced into gymnastics, then a shorter beam is what you should go for. They may not allow for as many steps or movements, but a shorter beam is perfect for a beginner who is just starting to develop their balance and coordination. Moreover, they are also easier to store and move, making them a practical choice for many families.
Standard Length Beams (8-10 feet)
For older children or those with more advanced skills, a longer beam may be more appropriate. Standard-length beams are closer to the size of competition beams, and with them, your child can begin practicing full routines and more complex movements. Take note that you might need more space though because their length needs to be accommodated.
Height Adjustability: Growing with the Child
An adjustable balance beam is an incredibly wise investment. It can be adjusted to grow with your child and still be able to provide a greater challenge each time. Look for beams with multiple height settings that allow you to start with a low height and gradually increase it as your child becomes more confident and skilled. Most children who take up gymnastics progress rapidly, and this feature will save you from having to purchase a new beam every time your child outgrows their current one.
Safety Features: Ensuring a Safe Gymnastics Experience
Look for features that make the beam stable and secure. This is the best strategy to prevent accidents and injuries.
Non-Slip Base
The base of the beam should be stable and equipped with non-slip features to prevent it from moving during use. A beam that shifts or wobbles can be dangerous, especially for beginners who are still developing their balance.
Padding
While most balance beams come with some level of padding, it’s essential to choose one with sufficient cushioning to protect against falls. Beams with more padding are generally safer, especially for younger children who are more likely to stumble.
Budget: Finding Quality Within Your Price Range
Balance beams come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to find a product that fits your budget while still offering the features you need.
Basic Foam Beams
These are typically the most affordable option and are perfect for young children or beginners. They lack the realism of more expensive beams but provide a safe and effective way for children to practice their skills.
Wooden or Suede Beams
These beams are more expensive but offer a higher level of realism and durability. They are a good investment for children who are serious about gymnastics and need a beam that will last as they progress.
Brand Reputation and Reviews: Choosing a Reliable Product
This is the last, but not the least point to consider. It’s essential to choose a balance beam from a reputable brand. Look for a company that specializes in gymnastics equipment and have positive customer reviews.
One of such companies is Zelus Fitness. Zelus is a trusted provider of fitness and exercise equipment for gymnasts and fitness enthusiasts. The company’s products have the reputation of being durable, dependable and long-lasting. Here is one balance beam from the Zelus collection:
Zelus’ Foldable 8ft Gymnastics Balance Beam for Kids
MAIN FEATURES:
Durable and Resistant: This balance beam is covered with suede fabric for ultimate water-resistant performance, stability, and safety. Even after the child gets sweaty, the wood core is wrapped with high-density EVA to provide comfort and durability.
HIinge Connection and Non-Slip Base: The hinge connection ensures 100% safety when in use, the special non-slip textured bottom makes sure the beam never moves around when you are jumping on it
Lightweight and Easy to Carry around: The 11 lb. weight, along with the integrated carry handle, makes it super easy to carry around for fun, perfect to be taken with for summer camping trips or weekend getaways
Accessible and Space Efficient: Perfect to set it up in your living room, family room, basement or backyard, great for beginners and professional trainees to practice all sorts of moves while enjoying yourselves, moves including but not limited to handspring, cartwheel, handstand, leap, jumps, walkovers, kicks, etc.
Foldable for Portability: Easily folds to half in its original size to save space, effortlessly assembled and disassembled for easy storage and transport
1-Year Warranty: Order today, knowing that your purchase is guaranteed by Zelus' one-year warranty and friendly 24/7 customer service
By following these guidelines, you can select a beam that not only helps your child develop gymnastics skills but also ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out Zelus for more balance beam models and valuable blogs, such as other gymnastic equipment for kids.