How to Choreograph Pommel Horse Routines

The pommel horse is a gymnastics apparatus used by male gymnasts. Often considered one of the most difficult events, it requires great strength and skill to perform even basic routines. Your performances must be as choreographed as a classic dance recital.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn about the apparatus. The pommel horse is set 45 inches above the floor. It's 62-inches long and 13 centimeters wide. On top there are two handles, or pommels, located 15 to 18 inches apart. During a routine, the gymnast uses his hands to support his body weight and perform moves from various points on the pommel horse.

    • 2

      Understand how the gymnast's body moves during the event. Gymnasts make continuous circular movements with their legs throughout most of the routine, with the exception being the scissors moves. Only the gymnast's hands should touch the apparatus throughout the entire performance. The gymnast doesn't stop or pause at any point during the routine.

    • 3

      Develop a routine that consists of single-leg and double-leg moves. Although double-leg moves usually compose most of the routine, single-leg moves, such as scissors, are usually required.

    • 4

      Choreograph a routine with more challenging maneuvers only if the gymnast can perform them. Include double-leg circles with many turning moves. You should also include flares and scissors.

    • 5

      Focus on form throughout the routine. Whether the moves are simple or challenging, they must be executed correctly. The gymnast's feet should be pointed and legs kept straight throughout the routine. The legs should be kept together except during single-leg moves and flares.

    • 6

      Choose a dismount for the routine. There are three ways to dismount during a pommel horse routine: jump off, loop off or handstand. A jump off consists of simply hopping off the horse. A loop off involves swinging the legs over the horse and hopping off. A handstand requires the gymnast to swing his legs up above his shoulders and into the handstand position. From there, he spins off and land ons his feet, parallel to the pommel horse.