This post has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 Code of Points. Level 7 floor routines are some of my favorite routines to judge. Level 7 gymnastics is the second optional level in gymnastics. This means that the gymnast gets to use their own choreography. Level 7 floor music can be chosen by the gymnast […]
This article has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 DP Code of Points changes. Introduction to Level 6 Beam The Level 6 beam routines can be very quick, but they can also be a challenge! These routines combine basic acro skills, which can include flight skills or a series, along with dance skills such as […]
This post has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 Code of Points. Introduction to Level 7 Bars For a gymnast with a strong Level 6 bar routine, the transition to Level 7 bars isn’t too tough. But without a basic knowledge of casting and circling technique, it’s a challenge to get a big score! The […]
This article has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 DP Code of Points changes. What are the “intangibles” that can elevate your routine to the top? Every optional gymnastics routine is evaluated, at the end, on several general categories. These categories can result in general deductions for the routine, if there are deficits in these […]
What’s my bar routine missing? What are the biggest deductions I’m getting? This is a very common question for Level 6-10 bars. What’s the answer? Often, it has to do with bar angle deductions. Angle deductions are deductions that are taken during almost every bar routine. At Level 6 and 7, the deductions taken are […]
The acro series on beam – it’s a requirement that can make or break the routine! If the series is not connected, it’s an automatic 0.5 off the start value for the routine, in addition to any execution deductions, balance errors, or falls. But what is necessary to consider a series connected? For a forward, […]
This post has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 Code of Points. What skills make up a great Level 10 beam routine? At Level 10, the requirements are much more rigorous than other levels. In 2026, a change was made to incorporate routine composition into the Start Value. Under these rules, gymnasts must earn Composition […]
This post has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 Code of Points. What skills does a Level 9 gymnast need for an exceptional beam routine? She will need a combination of strong acro skills, dance skills, and a big dismount. In 2026, a change was made to incorporate routine composition into the Start Value. Under […]
This article has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 Code of Points. What are the ingredients for a great Level 8 beam routine? Gymnasts need a combination of strong acro skills, dance skills, and a big dismount. Judges have tools available, in the form of composition, to separate gymnasts of different skill levels. In 2026, […]
