Pommel horse
Pommel horses: your gymnastics training partner
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Pommel Horse Buying Guide: How to Find the Right Horse for School, Club and Gym
Pommel horses are among the classic gymnastics apparatus and are still used in many ways today – from school sports and basic training through to performance-oriented artistic gymnastics. Depending on how they are used, different versions are suitable: from a simple horse for general exercises to a specialised pommel horse for technical training in artistic gymnastics. If you want to buy a pommel horse, you should not only look at size and price, but above all at intended use, height adjustment, materials, safety environment and accessories.
- What is a vaulting horse and what is a pommel horse?
- Are there different types of vaulting horses?
- How high is a pommel horse?
- What materials are used for a vaulting horse and a pommel horse?
- Typical pommel horse exercises
- How do I care for a pommel horse?
1. What is a vaulting horse and what is a pommel horse?
A vaulting horse is a classic gymnastics apparatus with a padded body, used for support, jumping and swinging exercises. A pommel horse is a special version of the horse equipped with 2 handles, the so‑called pommels. It is mainly used for pommel horse gymnastics.
The key difference lies in how they are used. A vaulting horse is used in general gymnastics lessons and basic training. A pommel horse is designed more for technical exercises with the hands on the pommels.
Good to know: The name “pommel horse” comes from the pommels, i.e. the handles on the apparatus. They enable the characteristic swinging and circling movements that define this piece of equipment.2. Are there different types of vaulting horses?
Yes. Vaulting horses differ in design, adjustability and intended use. Pommel horses also vary, for example in height, body shape, pommel design and training level.
Typical variants include:
- classic vaulting horses without pommels
- pommel horses for schools and clubs
- height-adjustable models
- competition or competition-style versions
- training apparatus with simplified or methodical design
|
Type of apparatus |
Features |
Ideal for |
|
Vaulting horse |
without pommels, versatile |
Schools, basic exercises, general gymnastics |
|
Pommel horse for school/club |
with pommels, often height-adjustable |
Clubs, school sports, basic training |
|
competition-style pommel horse |
precise construction, close to standards |
performance-oriented training |
The pommel horse bench is also an interesting methodical or supplementary option when you want to work specifically on technique, support or movement patterns.
3. How high is a pommel horse?
That depends on the model and area of use. Many apparatus are height-adjustable so they can be adapted to age, body height and performance level. In men’s competition gymnastics, the pommel horse height is usually around 115 cm.Important: The right height is not determined by age alone, but above all by:
- body height
- skill level
- type of exercise
- training goal
- required safety level
| User level | Recommended apparatus height |
| Children and beginners | rather low and easy to control |
| School sports and basic training | flexibly height-adjustable |
| Club training | adaptable to skills and technique |
| competition-oriented training | as close to standard height as possible |
4. What materials are used for a vaulting horse and a pommel horse?
Depending on the model, different materials are used: metal for the frame and base construction, a padded core structure for the body, and wood, plastic or metal for the pommels – depending on the design. | Component | Typical materials | What to look for |
| Frame | steel or metal construction | stability, secure footing, workmanship |
| Body | padded structure | shape retention, cushioning, durability |
| Cover | synthetic leather or hard-wearing surface | grip, ease of care, abrasion resistance |
| Pommels | depending on model: wood, plastic or metal core systems | grip feel, load capacity, precision |
5. Safety, standards and fall protection
Safety is crucial for vaulting and pommel horses – both for the apparatus itself and its integration into the gym. Key aspects include a stable construction, safe height adjustment, robust connecting elements and intact covers without damage. A suitable mat solution is always part of a vaulting or pommel horse set-up. Depending on the training level, gym mats, low landing mats or methodical mat sets for mounts and dismounts are used.6. What are the typical pommel horse exercises called?
Typical basic and progression exercises include:- support positions
- swinging
- scissors
- circles
- flank elements
- kehre (turning movements)
- travelling across the apparatus
- dismounts from circles or swing elements
For beginners, preparatory support and swing exercises are usually the focus. At advanced level, pommel horse gymnastics becomes significantly more technical and coordination-intensive.
6. How do I care for a pommel horse?
Care should be regular and appropriate to the materials. Especially in schools and clubs with high usage, fixed inspection intervals are recommended. The goal is to maintain grip, function and safety over the long term. Important measures include:
- clean the cover regularly
- check pommels for a secure fit
- inspect frame and connections
- check height adjustment for proper function
- repair damaged areas at an early stage
Whether circles, flanks or Swiss circles: At Sport-Thieme you’ll find FIG-certified, competition-ready vaulting horses and pommel horses for training in schools and clubs. Do you have questions about a specific vaulting or pommel horse or want to equip your gym appropriately? Then feel free to contact us by phone or send us an email via our contact form.