Pommel Horses

Pommel Horses

Pommel horses, also known as the side horse, is a piece of gymnastics equipment used by male gymnasts in artistic gymnastics. It is a padded apparatus with two handles, or pommels, that are mounted on a metal frame. The pommels are adjustable in height and distance, allowing gymnasts to customize the apparatus to their body size and skill level. The pommel horse is used for a variety of exercises that require strength, balance, and coordination. The pommel horse routine typically lasts between 50 and 70 seconds and consists of a combination of swings, circles, and flairs. Gymnasts must demonstrate control and precision as they move from one element to the next, while maintaining a steady rhythm and fluidity of movement. The routine is judged based on the level of difficulty, execution, and artistry, with deductions taken for mistakes, form breaks, and falls. Pommel horses were first used in gymnastics in the early 19th century, and have since become a staple of men's artistic gymnastics. The apparatus has undergone several changes over the years, with modifications made to the height and width of the pommels, as well as the shape and size of the frame. Today, the pommel horse is a challenging and exciting event that showcases the strength, agility, and grace of male gymnasts.

gymnastics, male gymnasts, artistic gymnastics, routine, swings, circles, flairs

— Anthony Wilson

CITATION : "Anthony Wilson. 'Pommel Horses.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/pommel-horses?E=324604 (Accessed on October 13, 2026)"