The Thomas salto is an extremely difficult and dangerous move performed during the floor exercise in artistic gymnastics. It is named after American gymnast Kurt Thomas.[1]
The Thomas salto consists of a 1½ salto backward in a tucked or piked position with 1½ twists or a 1½ salto backward in a layout (straight) position with 1½ twists.[2]
The move is effectively banned as it was removed from the Code of Points following several serious accidents, most notably the paralysis of Elena Mukhina in 1980.[3] As of the 2017–2020 "3/2 salto elements with reception by and then spring from the hands are not permitted,"[4] effectively banning the Thomas salto for all gymnasts.