As I watch a gymnastics meet, I notice that some routines really seem to pull me in. I even get chills watching them, if they’re really good! Some gymnasts seem to have a special quality about them that draws people to watch them. What is it about these routines that makes them irresistible to watch? […]
This article has been updated to reflect the changes in the 2022-26 Xcel Code of Points. Ah, Xcel. These are the levels that foster the most questions. There are so many questions that our regional Xcel chair even started a Xcel Facebook group. Professionals in our region can write in to the group to get […]
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As some of the gyms around the country are opening back up, it’s been a while since most gymnasts have been on the equipment. That can be a really big deal to a gymnast returning to their sport! Gymnasts may […]
The only certainties in life are death, taxes, and gymnastics rule changes. Every May, the committees at USA Gymnastics hold their annual meetings to update the rules and send out all the new changes. These meetings are typically held in conjunction with J.O. Nationals. This year, the meetings were virtual, as J.O. Nationals was cancelled […]
This post has been updated to reflect the 2021-2029 compulsory routine changes, and was updated again in July 2023. The final compulsory floor routine is the Level 5 floor routine. This routine is full of progressions from the Level 4 routine, and helps gymnasts learn the skills necessary to become a successful optional gymnast. It’s […]
If you’ve been following gymnastics for a while, and even if you haven’t, you’ve probably heard of the Magnificent Seven. The Magnificent Seven is the nickname for the 1996 Olympic team. They were the first U.S. gymnastics team to win the team gold medal at the Olympics. The team consisted of Amanda Borden, Amy Chow, […]
Have you heard of adult gymnastics? I’ll be the first to admit, I had no idea it was a thing for quite some time. After watching gymnastics on TV, you might think it’s a sport that’s only for young people. However, adult gymnastics seems to be getting more press these days. Maybe it’s because of […]
This post has been updated to reflect changes to the 2021 compulsory routines. The Level 4 bar routine comes with some big changes, compared to Level 3. Kips! Jumping to the high bar! These new, big skills can present quite a challenge to a new Level 4 gymnast. When I first competed at this level, […]
