When you’re ready to go from USA Gymnastics’ Xcel program into the Development Program (formerly “JO Levels 1–10”), this guide walks you through the what, when, and how of a smooth, intentional transition.
Why Gymnasts Transition from Xcel to JO
Xcel is fantastic for many athletes, but the JO/Development Program is designed for those who want to push themselves further in a highly competitive setting.
The Development Program offers:
- Stricter technical standards and progression through Levels 1–10
- Defined compulsory routines at Levels 4–5 and a structured optional path from Levels 6–10
- Clear pathways toward collegiate or elite gymnastics
For gymnasts who dream of higher-level competition, NCAA recruitment, or even elite status, switching into the Development Program can open doors that Xcel does not typically offer.
When Gymnasts Most Often Make the Switch
A common belief among coaches and gym families is that gymnasts with the drive and skills to succeed in the Development Program often make the switch around Level 6. By this stage, athletes are usually moving into optional routines and have developed a solid foundation in strength, flexibility, and technique. Many make this transition around 8 or 9 years old, when they’re ready for a greater challenge and more structured progression.
In some cases, especially with newer or younger gymnasts, coaches may suggest starting in Xcel Bronze or Silver to build confidence and basic skills. Once those gymnasts demonstrate readiness for compulsory routines—typically around Level 4 or 5—they transition into the Development Program.
Age and Mobility Score Requirements
Here’s a quick reference for the age and scoring criteria needed to enter each DP level:
| DP Level | Minimum Age (by Dec 31) | Mobility Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Level 4 | 7 years old | Typically 34.00 All-Around |
| Level 5 | 7 years old | 32.00 All-Around |
| Level 6 | 8 years old | 32.00 All-Around (can be skipped) |
| Level 7 | 9 years old | 32.00 All-Around |
| Levels 8–9 | 10–11 years old | 34.00 All-Around |
| Level 10 | 12 years old | 34.00 All-Around |
Note: In some cases, gymnasts can skip Level 6 entirely if they achieve two scores of 36.00 or higher at Level 4, fast-tracking them into Level 7. This option is especially useful for advanced gymnasts ready to move more quickly through the program.
What About Older Gymnasts?
Even gymnasts who are 12 or older especially those who have been competing in Xcel Platinum or Diamond, can still make the switch to the Development Program. Many enter at Level 5, 6, or 7 through a petition process, which typically includes coach approval, skill verification, and meet results that demonstrate readiness.
However, even with a petition, mobility scores must still be met to advance into Level 8 or higher. Coaches may recommend doing one season at Levels 4 or 5 to ease the transition and ensure all technical expectations are met.
It’s also worth noting that some gyms prefer gymnasts to formally “score out” of Levels 4 and 5, even if a petition is granted. Each gym handles this differently, so it’s important to talk with your coach and program director before finalizing the switch.
How to Transition Smoothly from Xcel into the Development Program (DP)
Switching from Xcel to the Development Program is a major step, and doing it right can make all the difference. Whether your gymnast is aiming for a more competitive environment or preparing for long-term goals like college or elite gymnastics, this step-by-step plan can help ensure a smooth, successful transition.
1. Self-Audit Technical Readiness
Begin by reviewing the skill expectations for DP Level 4. This is the entry point for most gymnasts entering the program. Key skills include:
- Vault: Front handspring
- Bars: Glide kip, long hang swings, tap swings
- Beam: Cartwheel mount, full turn, side handstand, cartwheel dismount
- Floor: Acro passes like back walkover → back handspring, dance elements to 180° split
If your gymnast already performs skills that align more with Level 6 or 7, they may qualify to either petition into a higher level (if age-eligible) or score out of Levels 4 and 5 quickly at sanctioned meets.
2. Use In-House or Low-Key Meets for “Scoring Out”
Many gyms provide mock meets or in-gym competitions where gymnasts can attempt to hit the mobility score thresholds required to move up:
- 34.00 All-Around at Level 4 → Move to Level 5
- 32.00 All-Around at Level 5 → Move to Level 6 (or even skip directly to Level 7, if allowed)
In some cases, two scores of 36.00+ at Level 4 may allow a gymnast to skip Level 6 altogether and enter Level 7 early. This depends on meet timing and your gym’s policy, so check with your coach.
3. Explore Petitioning (for Age 12+ or Xcel Platinum/Diamond/Sapphire)
If your gymnast is 12 or older and has prior competition experience, especially at Xcel Platinum, Diamond, or Sapphire, they may be eligible to petition directly into DP Levels 5, 6, or 7.
To do this, your coach must submit a formal petition to the State Administrative Committee (SAC). The petition typically includes:
- Gymnast’s bio (name, age, USAG number, DOB)
- Competition history (Xcel levels and key results)
- Coach’s written evaluation and recommendation
- Skill videos demonstrating all required elements for the target level (e.g., Level 7 routines across all four events)
Approval is not guaranteed, so clarity, strong skills, and video quality matter.
4. Update Your USAG Athlete Profile
Before competing in a DP meet, the gymnast’s classification must be updated in the USA Gymnastics athlete portal. Coaches or gym admins must:
- Change the athlete’s discipline from “Xcel” to “Development Program”
- Select the correct level (e.g., Level 4, 5, 6, etc.) before meet registration
Failure to update this status means the athlete’s scores won’t count toward official mobility, and they may be barred from DP sessions at sanctioned meets.
5. Plan the Transition Season Strategically
Most coaches recommend planning the transition carefully, often starting after the end of an Xcel season. A typical strategy might look like this:
- Spring/Summer: Compete in mobility or mock meets while still in Xcel
- Fall Season: Officially move into DP Levels 4 or 5 at the start of the new meet year
- Winter/Spring: If progress continues, begin training optional routines and consider moving up to Level 6 or 7
Make sure your coach submits the gymnast on the correct roster level prior to meet season. If there are any uncertainties, especially regarding petitions or eligibility, it’s best to contact your State Chair or SAC representative early.
With proactive planning, honest self‑assessment, and clear communication, the move from Xcel to DP can be a smooth, purposeful step toward higher gymnastics goals.
