The foam pit is highly important with many vaulting skills.  The purpose of a foam pit is to offer an opportunity to practice a difficult skill without having to worry about the landing.

Still Frame 1 – The hands don’t make contact at the same time.

Still Frame 2 – Ideally, when the body reaches vertical, the athlete should be off the vault

Still Frame 3 – Notice how the arms come in close to the body to speed up the twist.

Still Frame 4 – When the gymnast’s body is up, he is perfectly straight and has completed a 180 degree turn