The Vault is one of the 4 Olympic gymnastics events–along with Bars, Beam and Floor. The gymnastics vault event is one of the most explosive and thrilling aspects of artistic gymnastics. This event requires athletes to combine speed, power, and precision to execute dynamic and high-flying skills.

1. The Run-Up: Speed and acceleration are crucial in the run-up. Gymnasts typically sprint for about 25 meters (82 feet) before reaching the springboard. A powerful run-up generates the necessary momentum for a successful vault.
2. The Take-Off: The take-off from the springboard must be explosive and well-timed. Gymnasts use the springboard to propel themselves into the air, aiming to achieve maximum height and distance.
3. The Pre-Flight Phase: During this phase, the gymnast is airborne before making contact with the vaulting table. Proper body positioning and technique are essential to prepare for the push-off.
4. The Contact Phase: The gymnast’s hands briefly touch the vaulting table. The contact must be quick and powerful to generate the force needed for the post-flight phase. This phase determines the height and rotation of the vault.
5. The Post-Flight Phase: After pushing off the vaulting table, the gymnast performs flips and twists in the air. The complexity and execution of these elements are critical for scoring.
6. The Landing: A controlled and stable landing is vital. Gymnasts must absorb the impact and maintain their balance to avoid deductions. A clean landing with no steps or falls is the goal.

How Did My Daughter Who Didn’t Fall, Score Less Than one Who Did?

Any parent who has ever watched gymnastics on TV understands from the commentator that taking extra steps or falling on the vault landing is a deduction.  But that’s just one thing the judges look for.  Let’s look at some of the other dimensions.

In USA Gymnastics’  sanctioned meets, the gymnasts each perform two vaults. The vault with the better score counts. So if a gymnast performs one excellent vault and one poor vault, the excellent score will count.  They are NOT averaged. That gymnast will end up with a better score than a gymnast who performed two good (but not excellent)  vaults.

In AAU competitions (What is AAU gymnastics?), the gymnast will often only perform one vault, though a second vault can be performed.

Scoring in the Gymnastics Vault Event

Scoring in the gymnastics vault event is based on two main components: the Difficulty Score (D-Score) and the Execution Score (E-Score).

• Difficulty Score (D-Score): This score reflects the complexity of the vault performed. Each vault has a specific value based on its difficulty, with higher values awarded for more challenging skills.
• Execution Score (E-Score): The E-Score assesses the performance quality, including form, technique, and landing. Deductions are made for errors such as poor body alignment, bent legs, steps on landing, and falls.

The final score is the sum of the D-Score and E-Score, with deductions subtracted from the total.

What Makes A Good Vault?

So what makes a good vault? Here are some things (though not all !) to watch for:

1) Good body position throughout the vault- Does the gymnast  bend (pike) as they reach for the vault table, or show an arch in their back? Are their legs bent or separated? Do they bend their arms while on the vault?  Ideally the gymnast shows a nice, tight body position with straight arms and legs, and toes pointed during the entire vault. There are four phases of the vault ( the first flight phase, the support/repulsion phase, the second flight phase and the landing) and the gymnast’s body position is evaluated in each of the three phases.

2) Exit off the Vault Table- When the gymnast comes off the vault, is there repulsion from the vault or do they look as if they are just falling off the vault table?  Do they obtain good height ? Does it give you the impression of being a dynamic vault? There are deductions for height, distance traveled and the dynamics of a vault.

3) The Landing- On the landing, how much control (or lack there of ) is shown? The gymnast who has to move her arms and upper body along with taking a step to maintain balance will have a bigger deduction than one who merely takes a step. The gymnast who lands in a deep squat may receive up to a .3 deduction  and if she also takes steps or moves her body, the deductions could be the same as a fall (.5 deduction).

Training for the Gymnastics Vault Event

Training for the gymnastics vault event requires a combination of speed, strength, and technique. Here are some tips to help gymnasts excel:

1. Sprint Training: Improve your run-up speed with sprint drills and plyometric exercises. Faster acceleration leads to more powerful vaults.
2. Strength Conditioning: Focus on building leg, core, and upper body strength. Exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups are essential for generating explosive power.
3. Technique Drills: Practice vault-specific drills, such as hurdle drills and take-off exercises, to perfect your technique and timing.
4. Mental Preparation: Visualize your vaults and develop a consistent pre-vault routine to enhance focus and confidence.
5. Safety First: Always use proper mats and safety equipment during practice to prevent injuries, especially when learning new skills.

A good vault only happens after a good run down the vault runway, so encourage your gymnast to run fast down the runway!

The gymnastics vault event is a breathtaking display of athleticism, combining speed, power, and precision. Understanding the key elements, scoring, and training methods can help gymnasts and fans alike appreciate the complexity and beauty of this event. Whether you are an aspiring gymnast or an enthusiast of the sport, the vault event offers a thrilling glimpse into the heights of human potential.

By focusing on technique, strength, and mental preparation, gymnasts can excel in the vault event and achieve stunning performances that captivate audiences and judges alike. Step onto the runway, embrace the challenge, and soar to new heights in your gymnastics journey.

Related Posts:

• What is AAU Gymnastics?
• Tips for Choosing a Gymnastics Gym
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