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
Families often hear that gymnasts make the switch around Level 6, at 8 or 9 years old, but there’s no official pattern, and an Xcel gymnast can’t start at Level 6. Under the 2026–27 USA Gymnastics Rules & Policies (Ch. 9, p. 58), a gymnast whose experience is in Xcel enters the Development Program at Level 4 or below, then moves up with mobility scores earned at sanctioned DP meets. Xcel scores don’t count toward those mobility scores.
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, they transition into the Development Program at Level 4 or below.
Age and Mobility Score Requirements
Here’s a quick reference for the minimum ages and the scores needed to move up, from the 2026–27 USA Gymnastics Rules & Policies (Ch. 9, p. 58). A gymnast must reach the minimum age before her first sanctioned meet at that level.
| DP Level | Minimum Age | Score Needed at This Level to Move Up |
|---|---|---|
| Level 4 | 7 years old | 34.00 All-Around |
| Level 5 | 7 years old | 32.00 All-Around |
| Level 6 | 7 years old | 32.00 All-Around |
| Level 7 | 7 years old | 32.00 All-Around (or 8.50 on an event as an Individual Event Specialist) |
| Level 8 | 8 years old | 34.00 All-Around (or 8.50 as an IES) |
| Level 9 | 8 years old | 34.00 All-Around (or 8.50 as an IES) |
| Level 10 | 9 years old | None (Level 10 is the top level) |
Note: A gymnast with two all-around scores of 36.00 or higher at Level 4 (this season or last) can skip Level 5 and go straight to Level 6. A 32.00 at Level 5 lets her skip Level 6 and enter Level 7. Only scores from live, sanctioned Development Program meets count.
What About Older Gymnasts?
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. They may petition to enter at Level 7 or below: a formal written request to the State Administrative Committee (SAC), with a video showing the gymnast’s skill level. The SAC makes the decision (2026–27 Rules & Policies, Ch. 9, p. 58).
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 host in-house or local meets where gymnasts can attempt to hit the mobility score thresholds required to move up. The meet must be a live competition sanctioned by USA Gymnastics; mock meets and video scores don’t count:
- 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)
Two all-around scores of 36.00+ at Level 4 (this season or last) allow a gymnast to skip Level 5 and enter Level 6. It’s an option, not a requirement, so talk it over with your coach.
3. Explore Petitioning (Age 12+)
If your gymnast is 12 or older and has prior competition experience, such as Xcel Platinum, Diamond, or Sapphire, they may petition to enter the DP at Level 7 or below.
To do this, a formal written request goes to the State Administrative Committee (SAC), with a video showing the gymnast’s skill level, and the SAC decides. 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: Finish the Xcel season while learning the DP compulsory routines (Xcel scores don’t count toward DP mobility)
- Fall Season: Officially enter the DP at Level 4 (or below) at the start of the new meet year
- Winter/Spring: If progress continues, begin training optional routines and consider moving up to Level 5, or to Level 6 with two 36.00 scores
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.