Level 4 Vault Explained

From one gymnastics parent to another — Level 4 vault is fast, powerful, and full of hidden deductions you’d never notice from the stands

Level 4 vault is a big step up from Levels 2 and 3. This is the first level where gymnasts perform a front handspring vault over the table — and it’s the moment many fans think, “Okay… NOW it looks like real gymnastics.”

But with that jump in skill comes a jump in judging expectations.

Level 4 vault is all about power, shapes, and control, and judges are watching every millisecond of the vault — not just the landing.

Let’s break it down so you can actually understand what’s happening during that blink‑and‑you‑miss‑it moment.

What Level 4 Vault Is Really About

At this level, gymnasts are building:

• Speed down the runway

• A strong, clean hurdle

• A powerful block off the table

• Tight body shapes in the air

• Controlled landings

The front handspring vault is the foundation for every future vault — from front handspring‑fronts to Tsuks and Yurchenkos.

What Is the Level 4 Vault?

The Level 4 vault is a front handspring over the table.

It includes:

1. A fast run

2. A hurdle onto the springboard

3. A strong block off the hands

4. A tight, straight body in the air

5. A controlled landing

This is the first time gymnasts vault over the actual table — a huge milestone.

Vault Is Judged in 4 Phases

While the landing is more obvious, vault starts with the run and judges are looking at everything.

1. The Run (Yes, it matters — a LOT)

A powerful vault starts with a powerful run.

Judges want:

• Fast, aggressive sprint

• No stutter steps

• Arms pumping

• Consistent speed

Deductions:

• Slow run → up to 0.30

• Choppy or hesitant steps → 0.10–0.20

• Inconsistent speed → up to 0.20

A weak run = a weak vault.

2. The Hurdle & Board Contact

This is the transition onto the springboard.

Judges want:

• Smooth hurdle

• Two‑foot takeoff

• Strong, clean board hit

• Good timing

Deductions:

• Poor timing → 0.10–0.20

• Uneven feet → up to 0.20

• Weak board hit → up to 0.30

This phase sets up the entire vault.

3. The Block (Hands on the Table)

This is the heart of the vault.

Judges want:

• Straight arms

• Strong push

• Tight body

• Good angle off the table

Deductions:

• Bent arms → up to 0.30

• Low block → up to 0.30

• Arching → up to 0.20

A strong block = height + power.

4. The Flight & Landing

This is the part parents tend to notice most.

Judges want:

• Straight body

• Tight legs

• Pointed toes

• Controlled landing

Deductions:

• Bent knees → 0.10–0.30

• Legs apart → up to 0.20

• Step → 0.05–0.10

• Hop → up to 0.20

• Deep squat → up to 0.30

• Fall → 0.50

A clean landing can save a vault. A messy one can sink it.

The Hidden Deductions Parents Might Not Realize

These happen before the gymnast even leaves the table:

• Slow run

• Weak board hit

• Bent arms on the block

• Arching in the air

• Feet apart

• Low amplitude

• Short flight phase

A lot going on in such a short time frame, right...

What Parents Should Watch at Meets

Instead of focusing on the score, look for:

✔ A faster, more confident run

✔ A stronger board hit

✔ Straighter legs in the air

✔ A higher block off the table

✔ A cleaner landing

Now these are the real signs of progress.

Why Level 4 Vault Matters Long-Term

This level builds the foundation for:

• Front handspring‑fronts

• Tsukahara vaults

• Yurchenko vaults

• Higher‑level power and technique

Level 4 vault is where gymnasts learn to attack the runway, trust their power, and block with confidence — skills they’ll use for years.