The Gymnastics Guide

Helping gymnasts and coaches to be their best every day!
Level 6 Bar Routine Recommendations

Level 6 Bar Routine Recommendations


This post has been updated to reflect the 2026-2030 DP Code of Points. The Level 6 bar routines can seem simple, and that’s the idea. But it’s not always so simple to make them look good. These routines combine basic skills such as casting and circling, and the gymnast must keep a tight body shape […]

Xcel Diamond Gymnastics Requirements

Xcel Diamond Gymnastics Requirements


The fifth, and second highest, level, or division, as it’s called in Xcel gymnastics, is Xcel Diamond. The requirements in Xcel Diamond continue to progress from those in the Platinum division. Gymnasts in the Xcel Diamond division typically have skills that are the equivalent of a DP Level 7 or higher. Each division has its […]

The Best Gymnastics Mats for Home in 2022

The Best Gymnastics Mats for Home in 2022


Do you have a kiddo who loves flipping around the house? Maybe your child is already involved in gymnastics, or maybe they are practicing their flips on your living room couch. Either way, it’s a good idea to find them a safe surface to practice on. Gymnastics mats for home are a great way to […]

Xcel Platinum Gymnastics Requirements

Xcel Platinum Gymnastics Requirements


Introduction to Xcel Platinum This article has been updated to reflect the changes in the 2022-2026 Xcel Code of Points. The fourth level, or division, as it’s called in Xcel gymnastics, is Xcel Platinum. The requirements in Xcel Platinum continue to progress from those in the Gold division. Gymnasts in the Xcel Platinum division typically […]

The Best Gymnastics Beams for Home in 2022

The Best Gymnastics Beams for Home in 2022


Introduction to Home Gymnastics Beams The funny thing about gymnasts is, once they’ve got the gymnastics bug, there’s no stopping them from practicing. They’ll somersault across the living room couch. Curbs suddenly become balance beams. In an effort to keep your gymnast safe, you might think about getting her some equipment to use at home. […]

Xcel Gold Gymnastics Requirements

Xcel Gold Gymnastics Requirements


Introduction to Xcel Gold Gymnastics This article has been updated to reflect the changes in the 2022-26 Xcel Code of Points. The third level, or division, as it’s called in Xcel gymnastics, is Xcel Gold. The requirements in Xcel Gold are a progression from the Silver division, as the gymnasts continue to learn more difficult […]

How to Choose a Gymnastics Club

How to Choose a Gymnastics Club


So, you’ve got a child interested in gymnastics? That’s fantastic! Gymnastics is a sport that will increase flexibility, total body strength, coordination, and balance. Now, you might be wondering how to choose a gymnastics club. A quick Google search is likely to come up with a few gyms in your local area. But which gymnastics […]

Xcel Silver Gymnastics Requirements

Xcel Silver Gymnastics Requirements


Introduction to Xcel Silver Gymnastics This article has been updated to reflect the changes from the 2022-2026 Xcel Code of Points. The second level, or division, as it’s called in Xcel gymnastics, is Xcel Silver. The requirements in Xcel Silver are a step up from Bronze, and the gymnast can do skills that are a […]

Xcel Bronze Gymnastics Requirements

Xcel Bronze Gymnastics Requirements


Xcel Bronze Requirements This article has been updated to reflect the changes from the 2022-26 Xcel Code of Points. If you have Xcel Bronze gymnasts for the first time (or even if it’s not the first time!), you might be wondering what’s expected of them. Xcel Bronze is the first of the five Xcel divisions. […]

Breaking Down Level 2 Floor 2023

Breaking Down Level 2 Floor 2023


This post has been updated to reflect the 2021-2029 compulsory routine changes, and updated again in July 2023. Level 2 floor = hearing that same music over and over again. It can be monotonous and boring. But it doesn’t have to be! Level 2 floor is also a place where new competitive gymnasts can show […]