The balance beam is an essential gymnastic apparatus used in competitions and training. While it is commonly referred to as the balance beam, many other names also describe this equipment. These include the beam, the balance pole, the bar, and the elevated beam. Other synonyms are the balance board, the balance rail or simply the balance. Some other terms used in different gymnastics events and competitions are the uneven bars, the vault, and the floor exercise. Each of these gymnastics apparatuses requires specific skills, techniques, and training to master. However, the balance beam remains one of the most challenging and exciting apparatuses to work with in gymnastics.