Pit Information

Below you will find basic information regarding the anatomy of a loose foam (bungee) pit. Please bear in mind that there are no established standards or requirements set by any organization for fear of liability issues. This is provided only to show the fundamental concepts of our common pit assembly. You may find or be familiar with several types of pits. There are several varieties. No pit -- or any other piece of gym equipment, can be considered 100% safe. We urge you think safety first. (See warning below.)

It is important to note that NO pit of any kind can completely eliminate the possibility of serious neck or back injury. Every effort must be taken to avoid landing on the head or neck, especially going forward. Careful gymnastic progression must be followed to avoid dangerous landings on the neck.

Training pits should be longer and wider than competition matting requirements. Since gymnasts have not yet mastered the skills they will be performing, like they would in competitions, they need a larger margin of safety in the size of the safe landing areas. Gymnasts landing in pits may fall backwards or sideways striking the edge of the pit if it is not wide or long enough.

There are two main styles of Pits - A Loose Foam Pit and a Layered In-ground System (sometimes referred to as a Modular In-Ground Pit).

Loose Foam Pits

Concrete
Building your pit begins with excavation and forming up of the pit walls. Footing should be placed on at least 4" of gravel. Water-proofing of foundation wall is required. Have your contractor use 3500 psi (or better) concrete with aggregate (rock). The walls should have a smooth (slick) finish and be 8" thick on all sides. Many recommend that #4 rebar be used on concrete around the pit. They should be absolutely straight for mounting hardware - it is best to use forms. Do not use block.
It is also recommended that the concrete cure for 30 days before mounting the hardware.n text goes here