The evolution of the pommel horse

The pommel horse is widely acknowledged to be one of the most challenging components of any gymnastic event. Requiring intense physical strength and a fair dose of artistry to master, it’s one of the few events that only men may compete in due to the heavy physical requirements.

This article will briefly explore the history of the pommel horse from its humble beginnings to the slick designs of today, as well providing a few tips on how you can choose the best one for yourself.

Pommel horses in the past

The pommel horse is one of the few items of gymnastic equipment that has a history dating back many hundreds of years. The pommel horse was originally used to train soldiers to mount and dismount their horses more easily. A simple design usually constructed of wood, it provided a safe way for soldiers to gain the necessary practice without having to endanger their lives on the battlefields.

Pommel horses today

What was once a rudimentary item of equipment has now evolved into a serious gymnastic tool. You just need to browse the selection online to see for yourself just how varied and (advanced) the basic pommel horse has become.

Buying a pommel horse? Some tips:

As far as gymnastic equipment goes, a pommel horse can be one of the pricier items of equipment. You can expect to pay anything between $800 and as much as $4000 for a good, adjustable pommel horse! Be sure to look for a pommel horse that is as height adjustable as possible. Aside from the obvious criteria of meeting all relevant standards Look for a pommel horse that is as height adjustable as possible, you want to accommodate the maximum number of body types and gymnasts possible.

The pommel horses of today are super tough and built to withstand some serious punishment from male gymnasts, invest in a quality one and experience it for yourself!