How to teach the Auerbach on beam: 6 drills
Teach the Auerbach by first learning the gainer motion, a forward take-off with backward rotation, on floor and trampoline, then lower set-ups, and only then the beam. These 6 drills build take-off, lift and rotation step by step. They suit coaches of competitive gymnasts who already have a solid back tuck.
6 video steps · beam
Step 1 of 6, free: Auerbach 5
The phases
- Take-off: drive up from the take-off while the body keeps travelling forward.
- Lift and set: lift the chest and arms before rotating back.
- Backward rotation: rotate backward while still moving forward.
- Landing: spot the landing and finish with control.
Before you start
The gymnast should have a confident back tuck on floor and good basic skills on the high beam.
Common mistakes
- Leaning back at take-off: the gymnast loses forward travel and lands close to the beam.
- Rotating before lifting: the salto is low and short.
- Pulling the head back early: the gymnast loses sight of the landing.
Coaching cues
- Up before over
- Chest up, then tuck
- Keep moving forward
All 6 steps
Frequently asked questions
What is an Auerbach in gymnastics?
An Auerbach, or gainer, is a salto that rotates backward while the gymnast travels forward. On beam it is often seen as a dismount off the end of the beam.
What should a gymnast learn before an Auerbach on beam?
A reliable back tuck and gainer drills on floor or trampoline. The take-off and the forward travel should be consistent before the skill moves to the beam.
What is a Auerbach (Gainer)? Read the glossary entry