Both a men’s and women’s event, gymnasts perform complicated vaults in different body positions, such as tucked, piked, or stretched. The best vaulters are explosive off the springboard, as well as when pushing off the table.
Judges watch for proper body alignment, form, quick repulsion, the height and distance traveled, as well as the number of saltos and twists. Generally, the more saltos and twists, the higher the difficulty value of the vault. In addition, gymnasts should “stick” their landings by taking no extra steps. The entire performance happens very quickly. The gymnast must stay intensely focused and be prepared for the ground when it is time to land. Speed, power, and spatial awareness are essential to performing high-level vaults correctly.