Vault Yurchenko Meaning in Gymnastics

A vault Yurchenko is a vault that starts with a roundoff. The gymnast runs and performs a roundoff onto the springboard mat. This motion means the gymnast hits the board while facing backward. The athlete then performs a back handspring onto the vaulting table. From the table, the gymnast pushes off into a backward flip. This vault is very common in modern high level gymnastics competitions. It allows the gymnast to generate a lot of backward power easily. A gymnast executes a vault Yurchenko to perform complex multiple flips. The athlete must hit the springboard with a very tight body shape. Keeping the arms locked during the handspring protects the head and neck. The gymnast must rotate quickly to see the mat for the landing. This vault requires a specialized safety mat around the springboard for protection. The athlete lands on the mat with the back toward the table. Judges look for a high flight and a very clean body line. Consistent speed during the run is the key to this vault.