Gymnastics bar skills are essential for young athletes to develop upper body strength, coordination, and flexibility. In this guide, we will break down some beginner-friendly bar exercises to build strength, work on their form, and …
How to Do a Forward Roll in Gymnastics (Easy Steps for Beginners)
Learning the forward roll is a fantastic entry point into gymnastics. This simple yet essential move helps you build balance, control, and body awareness, making it ideal for beginners. This guide will break down each …
Compulsory vs. Optional: Gymnastics Levels Explained
Gymnastics is typically divided into two main competitive categories for younger athletes in the U.S.: compulsory and optional. These categories set the foundation for gymnasts’ skills, allowing them to progress from standardized routines to more …
Level 2 Gymnastics Skills Checklist: What to Practice and Perfect
Level 2 is designed for beginner gymnasts who have mastered Level 1 skills and are ready to progress to slightly more challenging techniques. The goal of this level is to solidify basic movements while introducing …
How Long Is a Gymnastics Routine?
Gymnastics routines vary in length depending on the event, competition level, and type of gymnastics performed. Each routine is designed to showcase specific skills and abilities while adhering to strict time limits that challenge athletes …
A Beginner’s Guide to Home Gymnastics (No Equipment Required)
Gymnastics – a sport that conjures images of graceful athletes soaring through the air, performing jaw-dropping feats of strength and flexibility. But did you know that you can start your gymnastics journey right in your …
What is the Execution Score in Gymnastics?
The execution score (E-score) in gymnastics represents a detailed assessment of how cleanly and precisely a routine is performed. Unlike the Difficulty Score (D-score), which evaluates the complexity of skills in a routine, the execution …
Penalty Vs. Deduction: Key Differences in Gymnastics Scoring
In gymnastics, scores are influenced by both penalties and deductions, each affecting the final score in distinct ways. These scoring elements serve to maintain fair play, uphold technical standards, and ensure gymnasts adhere to competition …
What Is a Neutral Deduction in Gymnastics?
In gymnastics, a neutral deduction is a penalty applied to a gymnast’s score for specific rule violations unrelated to performance quality. Unlike execution deductions, which reduce the Execution Score (E-score) based on technical errors (e.g., …
Level 1 Gymnastics Skills: What Every Beginner Needs to Know
Level 1 gymnastics is the starting point for many young gymnasts in the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic (JO) Program. It introduces children to the sport, helping them build essential skills and confidence. Though it’s a …
How Many Times Can a Gymnast Step Out of Bounds?
In gymnastics, particularly during floor exercises, stepping out of bounds is a common issue that can significantly impact a gymnast’s score. The floor exercise area is defined by clearly marked boundary lines. When any part …
How Olympic Balance Beam is Scored?
The balance beam is one of the most challenging and captivating events in Olympic gymnastics. Gymnasts must perform routines that showcase a blend of grace, strength, agility, and precision—all on a beam that’s just 10 …
Back Walkover Made Easy: Essential Drills, Tips, and Progressions
The back walkover is an elegant and foundational gymnastics skill that builds flexibility, balance, and strength. A perfect back walkover combines fluid motion, controlled splits, and precise hand placement. Though it may seem challenging, with …