In the USAG Development Program, Levels 1 to 5 use the same compulsory floor music nationwide—short, pre-cut tracks designed to teach rhythm, timing, and uniform choreography. But once a gymnast reaches Level 6, everything changes. Floor routines become optional, meaning the music, choreography, and expression are all up to you.
Gone are the days of pre-selected tracks and matching routines. But with thousands of options out there, how do you choose the right floor music?
Know the Rulebook Before You Hit “Play”
Before choosing floor music for Levels 6–10, it’s important to understand the key rules. These rules come from USA Gymnastics and help make sure the routine is legal, safe, and won’t lose points.
1. Time Limit
Each level has a time limit.
- Level 6: Maximum of 1 minute and 15 seconds
- Levels 7–10: Maximum of 1 minute and 30 seconds
If the routine goes over by even one second, the gymnast will get a 0.10 deduction. Always time your music and routine together to stay within the limit.
2. When Timing Starts
The clock doesn’t start when the music plays—it starts when the gymnast makes her first move. That’s why many coaches add a short pause at the beginning of the music (about two counts) so the gymnast can settle and start strong.
3. File Format
Music must be on a digital device—like a phone, tablet, or laptop—using an MP3 or WAV file. The device must be:
- In airplane mode
- Not using Bluetooth or streaming
This avoids sound problems at the meet. Always bring a USB backup just in case.
4. Lyrics and Voice Sounds
Right now, lyrics and voice sounds are still allowed—until July 31, 2026. After that, any vocals (even humming or chanting) will get a 1.00 deduction.
To save time later, many gyms are already switching to instrumental music that doesn’t need to be changed next year.
5. Short Routine Rule
If your music and choreography are under 30 seconds, the routine will count as a “short exercise.” That means:
- A 2.00 deduction
- Loss of start value (SV)
To avoid this, make sure your routine lasts at least one full minute after editing.
Start With the Athlete, Not the Song
When it comes to choosing floor music, the athlete—not the track—should be the starting point. It tells her story, sets her tempo, and gives her a unique presence on the floor.
Do a Personality Audit
Before looking through music options, ask: What kind of performer is she? Some questions that can help:
- What kind of music makes her light up?
- Does she like strong, dramatic beats or soft, flowing melodies?
- Does she enjoy performing or get shy under pressure?
- Which past floor routines has she loved watching?
Try to narrow down three words that capture her performance style. For example:
| Performer Type | Personality Words | Matching Music Vibes |
|---|---|---|
| Powerful, Bold | Fierce, Aggressive, Confident | Hip-hop, cinematic, Latin fusion |
| Artistic, Graceful | Elegant, Fluid, Emotional | Classical, contemporary, lyrical piano |
| Fun, Upbeat | Energetic, Playful, Sassy | Jazz, funk, Broadway-style |
| Quirky, Creative | Unique, Theatrical, Bold | Character themes, circus, mash-ups |
Knowing how she moves and expresses herself will shape everything else—tempo, dynamics, musical phrasing, and choreography style.
Match the Gymnast’s Level
The music should match the gymnast’s personality—but it also needs to fit what she can do at her level.
- Level 6–7 gymnasts have strong basics but simpler skills. If the music is too fast or intense, the routine might feel empty or rushed. Choose a song with a steady beat, clear sections, and a smooth flow that supports her movements.
- Level 8–9 gymnasts have more powerful tumbling and better performance skills. They can use music that has more layers, changes in tempo, or dramatic moments—as long as the routine is choreographed to match it.
- Level 10 gymnasts have the most freedom. They can perform to bold, complex music with big build-ups, fast rhythms, and strong storytelling. Just make sure the routine stays clear and doesn’t feel messy.
Tempo & Meter — Why 120–140 BPM Is the Sweet Spot
When picking floor music, tempo matters a lot. If the music is too slow, the routine can feel flat. If it’s too fast, the gymnast may feel rushed or struggle to keep up. The goal is to find a tempo that supports both performance and timing.
Best Tempo Range for Floor Routines
After looking at hundreds of top-scoring optional routines, one pattern stands out: most successful tracks fall between 120 and 140 beats per minute (BPM).
- 120–125 BPM: Great for slower, graceful routines. This range gives gymnasts time to breathe and move expressively. It works well for Levels 6–8, or for athletes doing fewer tumbling passes with more dance-based choreography.
- 130–140 BPM: Perfect for powerful tumblers. These faster tempos create strong beats that match big skills—like back handsprings, layouts, and twisting passes. Level 9 and 10 gymnasts often use this range because they can keep up with the pace.
Why 4/4 Time Is Your Friend
Most floor music is in 4/4 time—four beats per measure—and for good reason. It’s easy to follow, both for gymnasts and judges. Movements fit naturally with the rhythm, making the routine feel smooth and well-connected.
Stay away from tricky time signatures like 5/8 or 7/8 unless the gymnast has strong musical timing. These odd meters might sound cool, but they often throw off the rhythm and can make the routine harder to follow or score well.
💡 Quick Tip: Not sure how fast a song is? Try a free site like songbpm.com or tap the beat using a metronome app to check the BPM before committing.
Vocals: Use or Lose?
Right now, lyrics and spoken words are still allowed in USAG optional floor routines—but only until July 31, 2026. After that, any music with voices (even humming or chanting) will get a 1.00 deduction.
Lyrics can make a routine more emotional or fun, but they also come with downsides. They lock the routine into a certain theme, and they’re not allowed in international or FIG-level competitions. So even though they’re legal now, you need to be careful.
If You Use Vocals in 2025, Keep These Tips in Mind:
Keep it short and simple. Don’t use full verses. Just a few words or short phrases is best—too many lyrics can distract from the routine.
Avoid risky songs. Stay away from anything with:
- Bad language
- Religious or political themes
- Cultural stereotypes
These can still get artistry deductions, even if the lyrics are allowed.
Plan for next year. If your song has lyrics now, ask for a “stems-only” version. That means the vocal and music tracks are separate. When the rule changes in 2026, you can just mute the voice part and keep the music.
Pro Tip: Many coaches are already switching to instrumental music this season to avoid future problems—and to prepare gymnasts for college or international competitions where vocals are never allowed.
Copyright & Licensing—The Travel-Paper Everyone Forgets
USAG does not currently ask for proof of rights at standard meets, but international events and many invitationals do. The safest route is to buy from a gymnastics-specific vendor that bundles master & publishing clearance (Floor Express, Energym, Jumptwist, Salute, TuneGym). If you commission or edit yourself:
- Clear both master and publishing rights (sites like ClicknClear handle this).
- Keep digital receipts on your phone and in your meet binder. Meet directors can request them at any time.
Bottom Line
Great optional floor music balances rules and creativity. First, take care of the must-follow rules—like time limits, file format, and the upcoming ban on vocals. Then focus on shaping a track that highlights your gymnast’s unique style and strengths. A well-chosen 90 seconds can turn a good routine into a memorable performance.
