The gymnastics floor routine is an essential part of every competition, where athletes showcase their strength, flexibility, and creativity. Across the 2021–2029 compulsory cycle, each level introduces new challenges and skill requirements.
In this guide, we will explore the key elements of each level’s floor routine, highlighting the unique skills and transitions that define them.
Level 1 Gymnastics Floor Routine
For Level 1, there is no strict minimum age requirement, though most gymnasts begin around 4 to 5 years old. This level serves as an introduction to the fundamentals of gymnastics, focusing on basic skills that lay the foundation for future progress. Key elements include forward and backward rolls, cartwheels, and candlesticks.
The routines are non-competitive, designed to help young athletes build confidence, improve body awareness, and develop essential motor skills in a supportive environment.
1. Starting Position
Every routine begins with a strong, balanced starting position. For the Level 1 floor routine, the gymnast should stand with their feet together and arms behind their body. This creates a poised and stable stance, setting the tone for the rest of the routine.
Next, the gymnast transitions into a plié, a deep bend at the knees. While performing the plié, the gymnast brings their fingertips together and lowers their upper body into a rounded shape. This smooth movement naturally leads into the next skill.
2. The T Pose and Point
After completing the plié, the gymnast opens their arms to form a “T” shape, ensuring the arms are positioned neither too high nor too low. The legs should stay straight, and the arms should then extend above the head into a high-point position.
As they point, the gymnast shifts their weight to the back foot, preparing to move in the direction of their dominant leg. The key here is the phrase “pose, T, point,” which helps the gymnast sync with the rhythm of the music and transition smoothly into the next part of the routine.
3. The First Skill Sequence: Mountain Climber to Backward Roll
The first skill in the routine involves a mountain climber position, where the gymnast assumes a lunge with the dominant leg forward. It’s important to keep the arms in a position that ensures the ears remain covered, maintaining good form.
Following the mountain climber, the gymnast performs a cartwheel, then steps together and transitions into a backward roll. This roll finishes in a tuck position, and the gymnast stands up to prepare for the next skill.
4. Candlestick Roll-Up and Pose
Next is the candlestick roll, where the gymnast rolls from a seated position into a standing one. As they roll up, they strike a pose by placing their dominant hand on their hip, forming an “L” shape with the arm. The opposite arm is lifted into a crown shape, and the gymnast looks over their dominant shoulder.
For left-handed gymnasts, the pose is mirrored: the left hand is placed on the hip while the right hand forms the crown. This elegant pose marks the transition to the next sequence.
5. Turn Sequence: Plié, Passe, and Pivot
After the candlestick pose, the gymnast moves into the turn sequence.
- Step Passe: Begin by stepping onto the dominant leg and raising the non-dominant leg into a passe position, where the knee is bent.
- T-Position and Relevé: The arms are brought into a “T” shape, and the gymnast rises onto their toes (relevé), preparing for the pivot turn.
- Lock Stand and Pivot: Next, the gymnast performs a “lock stand,” where the back leg is placed behind the front leg, while keeping the non-dominant leg extended. After this, the gymnast executes a hug pivot turn, all while staying on relevé.
- Drop to T-Position: After the pivot turn, the gymnast gently lowers their heels to the floor, shifting the arms to the T-position and stepping the non-dominant foot forward.
Next, the gymnast performs a chassé, a gliding step that ends in a curtsy-like movement. As they step through onto the non-dominant leg, the arms are lowered into a low pose, with the arms crossed over the chest. The back foot should point behind, with both legs straight. After this, the gymnast brings both feet together and raises the arms to the crown position.
6. Plie Stretch Jump and Forward Roll
Now, the gymnast prepares for the final elements of the routine. The first step is to perform a plié followed by a stretch jump, ensuring a smooth landing in a crown position.
Following the stretch jump, the gymnast transitions into a forward roll, ending the roll with a clean stand and finishing the movement with a crisp pose.
7. Mountain Climber to Handstand and Finish
The final skill involves returning to the mountain climber or lunge position, followed by a handstand. After the handstand, the gymnast steps together and transitions into a finishing pose, with arms crossed in front of the chest—this is similar to the starting pose.
Putting It All Together
Below is a recap of the full routine:
- Starting Position: Feet together, arms behind.
- First Sequence: Pose → T → Point → Mountain Climber → Cartwheel → Backward Roll.
- Second Sequence: Candlestick Roll-Up → Pose → Step Passe → Hug Turn → Plie → Chassé → Curtsy → Low Pose.
- Final Elements: Stretch Jump → Forward Roll → Mountain Climber → Handstand → Final Pose.
Level 2 Gymnastics Floor Routine
In Level 2, gymnasts must be at least 5 years old to participate in competitions. This level is designed for young gymnasts, typically aged 5 to 7 years, who are building upon the foundational skills they developed in Level 1.
Routines in Level 2 build on the basics from Level 1 by introducing more complex elements such as cartwheel step-ins, handstands, and split jumps. The focus shifts towards smoother transitions and the introduction of basic dance elements like chassés and leaps, helping gymnasts refine their coordination and performance.
The primary differences are:
- Increased Complexity: Level 2 involves more complex skills, including a full cartwheel, backward roll, handstand, and leap sequence.
- Balance and Turns: Level 2 requires more control in balance-based movements such as the pivot turn, releve, and handstand hold.
- Graceful Poses: Level 2 introduces more dynamic poses like the half-crown and curtsy pose, adding an element of elegance and fluidity.
- Leap and Split Jump: Level 2 includes a leap sequence followed by a split jump, adding a more challenging element to the routine.
1. Starting Position
Every routine begins with a strong, balanced starting position.
- Feet Parallel: The gymnast begins by standing with their feet parallel, maintaining a straight and grounded posture. The body should be poised, setting the tone for the rest of the routine.
- Arm Position: The dominant arm goes behind the back, while the non-dominant arm extends outward to the side. The gymnast’s focus should be on their non-dominant arm, keeping their gaze directed downward.
Once in position, the gymnast prepares for the music’s start. When the music begins, the gymnast should mentally count “wait, wait, wait,” allowing time to align with the rhythm before transitioning into the first pose.
2. Contraction Pose
The contraction pose requires control and core engagement.
- Plie: The gymnast bends the knees into a plié, keeping the body centered and engaged. As the knees bend, the gymnast brings their middle fingers together, forming a rounded, contracted shape with their body.
- Core Engagement: The contraction should feel tight and controlled, as if bracing for a punch to the gut, engaging the core. This tightness prepares the gymnast for the smooth transition into the next position.
The contraction pose sets the stage for a fluid transition into the next skills.
3. The T Pose and Point
After completing the contraction pose, the gymnast transitions into the T pose and point position.
- T Pose: The gymnast opens their arms into a “T” shape, ensuring the arms are straight and parallel to the floor. The arms should neither be too high nor too low, but just level with the shoulders.
- Point Position: Next, the gymnast raises their arms overhead to form a high point and points one foot in front. The gymnast shifts their weight to the back leg, preparing to move in the direction of the pointed foot.
The point position is crucial for guiding the gymnast into the next movements, setting up the flow for the rest of the routine.
4. The First Skill Sequence: Mountain Climber to Backward Roll
The first skill sequence in Level 2 is more dynamic and requires greater fluidity.
- Mountain Climber: From the point position, the gymnast transitions into a mountain climber (or lunge) position, ensuring their arms are in the right position to cover the ears and maintain good form.
- Cartwheel: The gymnast then performs a cartwheel, keeping both legs straight and moving into a step-together position after the cartwheel.
- Backward Roll to Tuck: After the cartwheel, the gymnast steps together and rolls backward into a tuck position. The roll should be smooth, and the gymnast should finish standing up with control, ready for the next transition.
This combination of skills helps build strength, coordination, and fluidity between movements.
5. Knees In, Arms Up, and Pose
After the backward roll, the gymnast moves into a kneeling pose with arm movements.
- Knees In and Arms Up: The gymnast brings their knees in toward their chest and raises their arms to a crown position. This movement should flow smoothly, just as in Level 1, but with more emphasis on precision and control.
- Happy Hand on the Hip: The gymnast places their dominant hand on their hip, forming an “L” shape with the arm. The opposite arm is lifted to form a half-crown. The gymnast should look over their dominant shoulder to complete the pose, showcasing elegance and control.
This transition introduces more dynamic arm positioning compared to Level 1, requiring both control and grace.
6. The Turn Sequence: Plié, Passe, and Pivot
Level 2 requires the gymnast to perform a more complex turn sequence than in Level 1.
- Step Passe: The gymnast steps onto the dominant leg and raises the non-dominant leg into a passé position. The knee should be parallel to the ground, and the non-dominant leg should not droop.
- Relevé and T-Position: From the passé, the gymnast brings their arms into a “T” position and rises onto their toes (relevé). This movement tests the gymnast’s balance and control.
- Pivot Turn and Lock Stand: The gymnast performs a pivot turn while maintaining the arms in a rounded position, then executes a lock stand by placing the back leg behind the front leg.
- Heel Drop to T-Position: After the pivot turn, the gymnast gently lowers their heels and shifts their arms into a T-position while stepping the non-dominant foot forward.
This sequence requires balance, strength, and precision, building on the simpler turns from Level 1.
7. Leap Sequence
The leap sequence in Level 2 adds a dynamic and exciting element to the routine.
- Point and Leap Preparation: The gymnast points their non-dominant foot forward, shifting their weight to the back leg. The arms extend into a “T” position.
- Leap and Chassé: The gymnast performs a leap with the dominant leg, landing on the back leg. After landing, the gymnast transitions smoothly into a chassé, a gliding step, followed by a curtsy-like pose.
- Plie and Leap Transition: After the curtsy, the gymnast moves into a deep plié before performing the split jump. This sequence demands both power and grace.
The leap sequence in Level 2 requires strength, coordination, and flexibility, making it a standout element of the routine.
8. Plie, Split Jump, and Finish
This section of the routine highlights flexibility and control.
- Plie to Split Jump: The gymnast begins with a plié, then jumps into a split jump, ensuring that the legs are fully extended in the air.
- Landing: Upon landing, the gymnast extends their arms to the sides and finishes in a balanced, clean pose.
This sequence brings attention to the gymnast’s flexibility and timing, adding more complexity compared to Level 1.
9. Mountain Climber to Handstand and Final Pose
Level 2 includes a more advanced skill with the handstand.
- Mountain Climber: The gymnast returns to the mountain climber position, preparing for the handstand.
- Handstand and Hold: The gymnast performs a handstand and holds it for a moment, showing strength and control.
- Finish Pose: After the handstand, the gymnast steps together and transitions into the final pose, arms crossed in front of the chest.
The handstand requires a strong foundation and helps build the gymnast’s balance and upper body strength.
10. Candlestick Roll-Up and Bridge Kickover
The routine ends with a candlestick roll-up and bridge kickover, which introduce strength and flexibility.
- Candlestick Roll: The gymnast transitions from a seated position into a candlestick roll, then into a bridge.
- Bridge Kickover: From the bridge, the gymnast performs a kickover and finishes with a step-together motion into a crown position.
These final elements require strength, flexibility, and fluid transitions to complete the routine.
Putting It All Together
Here’s a recap of the full Level 2 routine:
- Starting Position: Feet in parallel, arms behind.
- First Sequence: Contraction Pose → T → Point → Mountain Climber → Cartwheel → Backward Roll.
- Second Sequence: Knees In → Arms Up → Half Crown Pose → Step Passe → Relevé → Pivot Turn → Lock Stand.
- Leap Sequence: Point → Leap → Plie → Split Jump → Finish Pose.
- Final Elements: Mountain Climber → Handstand → Candlestick Roll-Up → Bridge Kickover → Final Pose.
Level 3 Gymnastics Floor Routine
Level 3 requires gymnasts to be at least 6 years old to compete. Most gymnasts at this level are between 6-8 years old, focusing on refining their skills and starting to perform routines that are choreographed to music.
Level 3 routines incorporate more dynamic movements, requiring gymnasts to perform with greater precision and artistic expression. Key skills include handstand to bridge kickovers, round-off back handsprings, and split leaps.
Here are the main differences with level 2:
- Increased Difficulty: Level 3 introduces more advanced movements like the round-off, back handspring, and more intricate leap sequences.
- Diagonal Floor Work: Unlike Level 2, which is performed in a straight line, Level 3 uses a diagonal floor, which requires more space and control in movement.
- More Dynamic Poses and Transitions: The gymnast must execute more complex poses, such as the “fish pose,” the “mermaid spin,” and dramatic poses that add fluidity and elegance.
- Complex Tumbling: Level 3 includes advanced tumbling elements, such as the round-off and back handspring, which are not present in Level 2.
Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Starting Position
The routine begins in the middle of the floor, as the Level 3 floor routine is performed on a diagonal.
- Feet Together: The gymnast starts with their feet together, setting up for the first position.
- First Position: The gymnast rocks back and forth on their heels before opening their feet into first position, with the non-dominant foot turned out. The dominant leg (the “happy leg”) crosses over the non-dominant leg.
- Arm Position: The gymnast places their dominant arm behind their back, with the non-dominant arm extended outward to the side. The focus should be on the fingers of the non-dominant arm.
This starting position sets the stage for the rest of the routine, requiring balance and control right from the beginning.
2. T Pose and Plie
- T Pose: After the starting position, the gymnast opens their arms to form a “T” shape. The arms should be neither too high nor too low—just level with the shoulders. The gymnast’s non-dominant leg should be pointed, and they should transition into a plié with the non-dominant leg.
- Plie Transition: The gymnast pulls the dominant leg back into a bent position and then extends it out again, ensuring that the arms maintain the T shape and the movements are controlled.
This sequence focuses on precision and fluid transitions, highlighting the gymnast’s ability to move seamlessly between poses.
3. Mountain Climber to Handstand to Forward Roll
This part introduces more advanced movement combinations.
- Mountain Climber: The gymnast moves into a mountain climber position (or lunge, if preferred). They should ensure their weight is on the back leg as they prepare for the handstand.
- Handstand Hold: The gymnast performs a handstand, holding it for a moment before moving into a forward roll.
- Forward Roll and Stand Up: After the handstand, the gymnast executes a forward roll and stands up with their feet together, finishing the movement with a clean pose.
This sequence is crucial for demonstrating strength and balance, as the gymnast must control each move and transition smoothly from one to the next.
4. Plie Chassé and Pose
After the forward roll, the gymnast moves into a plie chassé and finishes with a pose.
- Plie Chassé: The gymnast performs a plie and chasse, landing with their dominant leg in front. The arms should come down as the gymnast steps through into a plie.
- Pose: Once in the plie, the gymnast points their back leg behind them and holds the position with both arms extended outward.
This section emphasizes fluidity and strength in movement, showcasing control in the leap and the smoothness of the transition.
5. Pivot Turn, Leap, and Fish Pose
Level 3 introduces a pivot turn, leap, and fish pose, adding elegance and fluidity to the routine.
- Pivot Turn: From the plie, the gymnast performs a pivot turn toward the back leg. They press through their front ankle to achieve a controlled turn.
- Leap: The gymnast then moves into a leap pass, using the non-dominant leg to prepare for the leap. The arms should be extended downward as they perform the leap, landing on the dominant leg.
- Fish Pose: After the leap, the gymnast moves into a “fish pose,” stepping through and holding the arms in a specific position before continuing.
This section adds complexity to the routine, with the gymnast required to control the leap and land gracefully into the fish pose.
6. Split Jump, Stretch Jump, and Finish Pose
The gymnast now performs a split jump and a stretch jump to add height and elegance.
- Split Jump: The gymnast begins with a plié and leaps into a split jump. The legs should be fully extended, and the arms should be in a high position.
- Stretch Jump: Following the split jump, the gymnast performs a stretch jump, ensuring the legs are fully extended in the air before landing.
These jumps highlight the gymnast’s flexibility and control, requiring both strength and grace in the execution.
7. Mountain Climber, Handstand, and Bridge Kickover
The gymnast transitions into more advanced tumbling skills.
- Mountain Climber and Handstand: The gymnast returns to the mountain climber position, preparing for the handstand. After holding the handstand for a moment, they transition into a bridge kickover.
- Bridge Kickover: The gymnast completes the bridge kickover with clean form, demonstrating strength and flexibility.
These skills build upon the strength from earlier parts of the routine, requiring the gymnast to maintain balance and control throughout.
8. Dramatic Split Pose, Mermaid Spin, and Final Pose
After the bridge kickover, the gymnast performs a dramatic pose, followed by the mermaid spin.
- Split Pose: The gymnast drops back into a dramatic split pose, stretching backward and then bringing their arms into a crown position.
- Mermaid Spin: From the split position, the gymnast performs a mermaid spin, spinning on the bottom while keeping their arms and legs in controlled positions.
- Final Pose: The gymnast ends in a strong final pose, holding their arms in a crown position and completing the routine with poise.
This part of the routine requires flexibility, strength, and elegance, adding a final flourish to the performance.
Putting It All Together
Here’s a recap of the full Level 3 routine:
- Starting Position: Feet together, open into first position, arms behind.
- First Sequence: T Pose → Plie → Mountain Climber → Handstand → Forward Roll → Stand Up.
- Second Sequence: Plie Chassé → Pose → Pivot Turn → Leap → Fish Pose.
- Third Sequence: Split Jump → Stretch Jump → Finish Pose.
- Final Elements: Mountain Climber → Handstand → Bridge Kickover → Split Pose → Mermaid Spin → Final Pose.
Level 4 Gymnastics Floor Routine
For Level 4, the minimum age to compete is 7 years old. Gymnasts are typically aged 7-10 years at this level. This is the first compulsory level for competitive gymnastics in the USAG Development Program, where gymnasts must perform standardized routines and demonstrate both technical proficiency and artistic expression.
The Level 4 floor routine builds upon the skills developed in Level 3, introducing more dynamic movements, improved pose transitions, and intricate tumbling skills.:
- Increased Difficulty: Level 4 introduces more advanced tumbling, including back handsprings, and a more complex leap pass.
- Diagonal Floor Work: Like Level 3, Level 4 continues using the diagonal floor, which requires the gymnast to move across the floor with control and precision.
- More Fluidity in Poses: Level 4 incorporates additional poses, such as the “forced arch” and “mermaid pose,” which add an element of elegance and dramatic flair.
- Incorporation of Round-Off and Back Handspring: A significant step up from Level 3, Level 4 includes more dynamic tumbling elements like the round-off and back handspring.
1. Starting Position
The starting position in Level 4 is similar to the previous levels, but with more focus on positioning.
- Feet Together: The gymnast begins by standing with their feet together, preparing to transition into first position.
- First Position: Rock back and forth on the heels, then open the feet into a comfortable position, ensuring that the feet are turned out and the hips remain square.
- Crossing the Legs: The gymnast crosses their dominant leg (happy leg) over their non-dominant leg. The dominant arm is placed behind the back, and the non-dominant arm is extended outward to the side. The gymnast’s gaze should be directed downward at their non-dominant arm.
This starting position sets the tone for the routine, requiring balance and control right from the beginning.
2. T Pose and Plie
- T Pose: After the starting position, the gymnast transitions into a T pose with arms extended out to the side, ensuring the arms are neither too high nor too low.
- Plie: The gymnast bends their non-dominant leg into a plié, while the dominant leg stays pointed. The arms remain in the T position as the gymnast looks down the leg.
This sequence requires smooth transitions between positions and a focus on control.
3. Passe and Turn
Next, the gymnast performs a sharp and controlled turn with the dominant leg in a passe position.
- Passe: The gymnast pulls the dominant leg into a passe position, keeping the leg straight and sharp.
- Turn and Look Over the Shoulder: The gymnast turns toward the leg in the passe position and looks over the shoulder, ensuring that the body remains aligned and the turn is precise.
This part of the routine emphasizes balance, control, and precise alignment.
4. Back Walkover and Finish
Level 4 introduces a back walkover as part of the tumbling sequence.
- Back Walkover: The gymnast steps back into a back walkover, using the dominant leg as the starting point.
- Finish: After the back walkover, the gymnast either steps together or steps into a lunge, finishing with a clean and controlled pose.
This sequence is crucial for building fluidity in transitions between the back walkover and the next elements.
5. Forced Arch and Pose
- Forced Arch: The gymnast moves into a forced arch position with the dominant foot forward. The arms are positioned behind the body as the gymnast transitions into this pose.
- Side Pose: From here, the gymnast moves into a side pose on relevé, with arms in an “L” shape and focus forward.
- Focus on Elegance: The gymnast should maintain a smooth transition between the forced arch and side pose, keeping the torso open and the arms in precise positions.
This section highlights the gymnast’s ability to perform poses with elegance while maintaining balance and control.
6. Leap Pass Sequence
Level 4 introduces a more complex leap pass.
- Plie and Leap Preparation: The gymnast begins with a plie and prepares for the leap pass. The gymnast’s arms should be in a sharp position as they prepare to leap.
- Leap and Chassé: The gymnast performs a leap and lands in a chassé position. This dynamic leap sequence requires focus on leg extension and fluid transitions.
- Fish Pose: After the leap, the gymnast finishes in a fish pose, holding the position for a moment before moving into the next section.
The leap pass requires both strength and coordination, adding a more advanced tumbling element to the routine.
7. Front Handspring and Back Extension Roll
The gymnast now performs a front handspring, followed by a back extension roll.
- Front Handspring: The gymnast executes a front handspring, focusing on power and control during the execution.
- Back Extension Roll: The gymnast transitions into a back extension roll, maintaining fluidity and strength throughout the movement.
These elements require strength and timing, with the gymnast needing to control each movement as they move through the sequence.
8. Split Pass and Mermaid Spin
- Split Pass: After the back extension roll, the gymnast transitions into a split pass, ensuring the body stays in a straight line throughout the motion.
- Mermaid Spin: The gymnast then performs a mermaid spin, spinning on the bottom with controlled arm and leg positioning.
These movements showcase flexibility and fluidity, adding elegance to the routine.
9. Round-Off and Back Handspring
Level 4 introduces more advanced tumbling with the round-off and back handspring.
- Round-Off: The gymnast performs a round-off, transitioning smoothly into a back handspring.
- Back Handspring: The gymnast follows the round-off with a back handspring, demonstrating control and strength during the execution.
This part of the routine is key for demonstrating tumbling skills and building strength.
10. Final Pose
The gymnast finishes the routine with a dramatic and controlled pose.
- Pose Sequence: The gymnast steps into a final pose, ensuring the arms are in the correct position and the body is aligned. The ending pose can be customized, but it should convey strength and control.
Putting It All Together
Here’s a recap of the full Level 4 routine:
- Starting Position: Feet together, arms behind.
- First Sequence: T Pose → Plie → Passe → Turn → Back Walkover → Finish.
- Second Sequence: Forced Arch → Side Pose → Leap Pass → Fish Pose.
- Third Sequence: Front Handspring → Back Extension Roll → Split Pass → Mermaid Spin.
- Final Elements: Round-Off → Back Handspring → Final Pose.
Level 5 Gymnastics Floor Routine
In Level 5, gymnasts must be at least 7 years old, with most participants being between 8-11 years old. Level 5 routines are the most advanced among the compulsory levels, combining intricate dance moves and challenging acrobatic elements.
Building on the skills from Level 4, it introduces a higher level of difficulty in both tumbling and presentation. Key differences include:
- Advanced Tumbling: Level 5 includes more complex tumbling, such as a series of back handsprings, round-offs, and additional flips that are not seen in Level 4.
- Fluid Transitions: While Level 4 has strong and dynamic sequences, Level 5 requires gymnasts to execute fluid, more challenging combinations of movements, incorporating more advanced leap passes and transitions between different tumbling elements.
- Sophisticated Poses: The poses in Level 5 are more intricate, with a focus on elegance and precision in arm and body movements.
- Higher Difficulty: Overall, Level 5 requires a higher level of flexibility, strength, and technique, especially in tumbling and leaps.
Let’s go through each part of the routine in detail:
1. Starting Position
The starting position in Level 5 follows a similar format as the previous levels but requires more refinement.
- Feet Together: The gymnast starts with feet together, standing tall and poised.
- First Position: As in Level 4, the gymnast rocks back and forth on their heels to open the feet into first position, ensuring the feet are turned outward for proper alignment and balance.
- Dominant Leg Crossed Over: The dominant leg crosses over the non-dominant leg, with the dominant arm behind the back and the non-dominant arm extended outward to the side. The gymnast’s gaze should be directed downward at their non-dominant arm.
This starting position sets up the gymnast for the next movements, demanding control and strength from the beginning.
2. T Pose, Plie, and Turn
- T Pose and Plie: The gymnast opens their arms into a T shape, ensuring the arms are neither too high nor too low, just at shoulder height. The gymnast bends their non-dominant leg into a plié, keeping the body aligned.
- Sharp Turn into Passe: From the T pose, the gymnast pulls the dominant leg into a sharp passe, turning toward the raised leg and looking over the shoulder. This requires balance and control as the gymnast prepares for the next sequence.
This portion of the routine focuses on fluidity and precision, transitioning from the T pose into the passe turn smoothly.
3. Back Walkover and Finish
- Back Walkover: The gymnast transitions into a back walkover, beginning with the dominant leg forward. The walkover should be controlled and fluid.
- Finish Pose: After the walkover, the gymnast steps together or into a lunge, finishing with a clean, controlled pose.
The back walkover in Level 5 is a more advanced move than in Level 4, requiring greater balance and strength.
4. Forced Arch and Side Pose
- Forced Arch: The gymnast performs a forced arch with the dominant foot forward. The arms are behind the body as the gymnast prepares to transition into the next movement.
- Side Pose on Relevé: From the forced arch, the gymnast moves into a side pose on relevé. The arms should be placed in an “L” shape, and the gymnast looks forward, keeping the body aligned.
The forced arch and side pose sequence adds elegance and demonstrates control over the body, transitioning smoothly into the next movements.
5. Leap Pass and Fish Pose
- Leap Pass Preparation: The gymnast begins by preparing for the leap pass, performing a plie and extending the arms forward.
- Leap: The gymnast performs a leap, transitioning from the dominant leg into the leap pass. The leap should be dynamic, with both legs extended fully.
- Fish Pose: After the leap, the gymnast transitions into a fish pose, holding the position for a moment before continuing.
This portion requires a lot of control in both the leap and landing, as the gymnast must be precise in extending the legs and transitioning into the pose.
6. Front Handspring and Back Extension Roll
The front handspring and back extension roll are more advanced tumbling elements in Level 5.
- Front Handspring: The gymnast performs a front handspring with proper technique, focusing on heel drive and clean execution.
- Back Extension Roll: Following the front handspring, the gymnast transitions into a back extension roll, maintaining fluidity throughout the move.
This combination of tumbling requires strength and control, with a focus on fluidity between each movement.
7. Split Pass and Mermaid Spin
- Split Pass: The gymnast transitions into a split pass, ensuring the body remains in a straight line from hand to hand, and no arching occurs. The split should be clean, and the gymnast should focus on maintaining a straight body alignment.
- Mermaid Spin: After the split pass, the gymnast performs a mermaid spin, spinning on the bottom and holding the arms and legs in controlled positions.
These movements require flexibility and elegance, emphasizing both strength and poise.
8. Round-Off and Back Handspring
The round-off and back handspring are key components of the tumbling pass in Level 5.
- Round-Off: The gymnast performs a round-off with clean technique, ensuring the legs are straight and the body is aligned.
- Back Handspring: After the round-off, the gymnast immediately transitions into a back handspring, demonstrating strength and precision.
The back handspring in Level 5 is faster and more fluid than in Level 4, requiring greater control and technique.
9. Final Pose
The gymnast finishes the routine with a dramatic and controlled final pose.
- Final Pose: After completing the tumbling pass, the gymnast moves into a final pose, ensuring the body is aligned and the arms are in the correct position. The ending pose can vary, but it should reflect strength, control, and elegance.
Putting It All Together
Here’s a recap of the full Level 5 routine:
- Starting Position: Feet together, arms behind.
- First Sequence: T Pose → Plie → Passe → Turn → Back Walkover → Finish.
- Second Sequence: Forced Arch → Side Pose → Leap Pass → Fish Pose.
- Third Sequence: Front Handspring → Back Extension Roll → Split Pass → Mermaid Spin.
- Final Elements: Round-Off → Back Handspring → Final Pose.
In conclusion, each level of the gymnastics floor routine builds upon the skills of the previous one, creating a structured path for gymnasts to develop their strength, agility, and performance quality. These routines provide a clear progression, establishing a strong foundation for future success in competitive gymnastics.