Why Is It Called a Pommel Horse and What Are Its Other Names?

The pommel horse is called as such because of the two pommels (handles) that are attached to the top of the apparatus. The pommels are an essential part of the pommel horse, as gymnasts use them to perform various swinging and rotating skills.

Side horse is another name for a pommel horse. Early incarnations of the pommel horse date back to Ancient Rome, where they were used as a part of the Olympic Games. The modern pommel horse emerged in the 19th century.

The pommel horse is a unique piece of equipment in men’s artistic gymnastics, with its cylindrical body covered in leather and the two upright pommels near the center. It is held in a horizontal position above the floor by adjustable legs.

So in summary, the name “pommel horse” directly refers to the two pommels that gymnasts grip while performing on this apparatus, which is a key distinguishing feature compared to other gymnastics equipment.