description Gaylord (High Bar) Overview
The Gaylord is an elite gymnastics skill performed on the high bar. It requires a front salto followed by a controlled re-grasp of the bar, typically resulting in a layout full position. Developed and popularized by Mitch Gaylord, it’s a challenging maneuver executed by advanced male gymnasts seeking to demonstrate exceptional release skills and acrobatic control.
help Gaylord (High Bar) FAQ
Who is the Gaylord high bar skill named after?
The Gaylord is named after the American gymnast Mitch Gaylord, who popularized the move during his competitive career. He famously used his signature high bar skills to help the United States men's gymnastics team win gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. The skill remains a high-difficulty benchmark in the sport.
What is the exact execution of a Gaylord on the high bar?
A Gaylord involves a front giant swing into a forward salto over the high bar. The gymnast releases the bar, completes a full front flip, and then catches the bar again to resume swinging. This forward rotation makes it incredibly difficult to visually spot the bar for the re-grasp.
What is the difficulty rating of the Gaylord?
In the FIG Code of Points, the standard Gaylord is generally rated as an E level element. The difficulty stems from the blind nature of the release and the momentum needed to safely land back on the bar. Gymnasts often use it to fulfill the requirement for a flight element in a hang position.
Is the Gaylord performed in modern elite gymnastics?
Yes, the Gaylord is still performed today, though it is heavily utilized in men's gymnastics rather than women's. Gymnasts looking to maximize their difficulty score often pair it into complex release combinations. Modern athletes frequently perform harder variations, like the Gaylord II, which adds a full twist to the salto.
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