How To Make A Balance Beam

For gymnasts of any age mastering the skill to use a balance beam is essential. By reading this article you will learn how to make your own balance means and train at home.

Starting Making The Beam

1. You will need the following supplies. Six deal boards of 8 ft (2.44 m) and 1x2 inches in cross-section; 4 planks of 12 inches (30.5 cm) in length and 2x4 inches in cross-section; 4 planks of 24 inches (61 cm) and 2x4 inches in cross-section.

2. Wash all sides of the planks using a sponge and waste cloth or stiff bristle brush. If the surface is dirty and unclean, it will affect adhesiveness between beam elements.

3. Stick together six 8-ft (2.44 m) planks. Place them vertically to pile them on one another. Apply wood glue (waterproof one, if available) to the wider side of the plank, then attach the side of the next plank. Do the same to other planks to stick them together.

4. Fix the planks in place while the glue is setting. It is recommended to use special brackets for fixing wooden parts. It takes 24 hours for glue to set.

5. Surface the board. When the glue has set, remove the load or brackets and polish the surface of the gymnastic apparatus.

6. Attach angles made of zinc-coated steel to the beam you've made. Attach angle supports (screws may be included in the set) to the lower part of the beam, leaving 12 inches (30.5 cm) from each side.

Mounting Stands For Balance Beam

1. Attach stands to the beam. Four planks of 12 inches (30.5 cm) in length and 2x4 inches in cross-section should be attached to the angle supports using 4 screws per stand. You will need 16 screws to secure all stands.

2. Make a basement for the stands. Attach a plank of 24 inches (61 cm) and 2x4 inches in cross-section to the lower part of the stands. You will need 4 screws per stand.

3. You can upholster the beam with synthetic suede. Take a narrow band of suede that fits the beam’s length and width. Glue the fabric to the beam so that it would cover the whole surface.