There are 11 levels to the USA Gymnastics Program. At most gyms, levels 1-3 are non-competitive levels that center on teaching basic core skills for each of the 4 Olympic events. They consist of doing individual skills and small routines while showing proficiency on 4 main points of each skill. When the gymnast successfully completes each skill and routine required on an event she may move on to the next level.
LEVEL 4
At most gyms, the first competitive level is Level Four. It consists entirely of compulsory routines. Compulsory routines are a pre-choreographed series of skills that each competitor must perform. Once again they are made up of core skills needed for each event, built on the skills from a previous level. The philosophy of these routines is for the athletes to practice toward perfection of these basics. Level Four can only compete at invitational and state championships.
Level five is also a compulsory only level of competition. Level five compulsory routines are based on progression skills that were learned at level four. The athletes are arranged in age groups at competitions. At level 5 awards are given in ranges rather than places. Level Five compete at invitational and state championships.
Level six is also compulsory only level of competition. Each level builds on the skills of the previous level and likewise is judged with higher expectations. The USA Gymnastics structure is based on a progressive “step by step” building of physical, emotional and psychological skills. Proficiency of all aspects of the gymnast at each level is expected and required to insure a safe smooth movement through the levels. Level six compete at local invitational and state championship events.
The first level of optional competition begins with Level Seven. Optional competition consists of each gymnast performing her own routines for each event. The Federation of International Gymnastics (FIG) produces the optional rules every 4 years in conjunction with the Olympics. This book dictates what each routine needs to contain, (composition), the value of what is done, (difficulty), and how to evaluate how well it is done, (execution). As with the compulsory levels, the requirements and expectations from one level to the next increases. Level Seven compete at invitational and state championships.
LEVEL 8
Level Eight also have to follow FIG rules and policies. At this level gymnasts are allowed to perform more difficult skills than Level Seven gymnasts to meet FIG requirements. Level Eight compete at invitational, state, and regional competitions.
LEVEL 9
Level Nine is the third level of optional competition. Its difficulty requirements and expectations are harder than at Level Eight. Level Nine compete at invitational, regional, state, and national championships.
LEVEL 10
Level Ten is considered a Pre-Elite Level and for the truly dedicated and motivated gymnast. This is the highest level in the USAG age group. Competitions are at invitational, state, regional, and national championships.