Women 5th position on beam ("beam feet")

[CalEliteCoach]

Why is the rotation of the legs (5th position in ballet) so important on beam? Or is it? Maybe it is more dominantly used as a turning or landing technique? I would expect that when tumbling on beam the feet would be in line with the beam rather than the feet and legs turned out. I'd like hear some opinions.

 

[wgagym]

It is so important on staying steady on the beam. Especially coming out of skills. Try it your self. Get your lunge going with beam feet and just do side kicks on a line. Then do it with feet facing forward. Makes a HUGE difference.

 

[sce]

It helps to align the hips.