How to teach beam mounts: 6 focused drills
You teach a beam mount by building a controlled take-off, solid hand support on the beam and a stable arrival in the first position. This short series covers mounts onto the balance beam. It is for coaches who want their gymnasts to start a beam routine with control instead of a wobble.
6 video steps · beam
Step 1 of 6, free: Beam Mounts 1
The phases
- Approach and take-off: jump from floor or springboard with control and the body tight.
- Hand support: place the hands on the beam and carry weight on straight arms.
- Arrival: bring the legs or feet onto the beam in the right shape and place.
- Balance: stabilise in the first position before moving on.
Before you start
The gymnast should support body weight on straight arms, jump with control from a springboard and walk and balance on a low beam.
Common mistakes
- Too much run or jump: the gymnast overshoots and loses balance.
- Bent arms on support: the body sinks and the mount looks heavy.
- Looking down at the feet: the hips and shoulders lose alignment.
- Rushing the arrival: the first position is not stable before the next element.
Coaching cues
- Arms straight, shoulders over hands
- Land soft and tall
- Eyes to the end of the beam
All 6 steps
Frequently asked questions
Which beam mounts should beginners learn first?
Simple mounts such as a front support mount, step-on or squat-on are common starting points. Choose mounts that fit your level and competition requirements, and practise them on a low beam before the high beam.
How do I make beam mounts more consistent?
Fix the springboard distance and run-up, train hand support and focus on a still first position. Repeating mounts on a low beam or line with a clear finish shape usually helps more than only doing full routines.
What is a Beam Mounts? Read the glossary entry