Applicable to WAG, Beam and Floor only
Definition: Up to -0.3 can be applied for a routine with insufficient artistry, or performance quality. Within the -0.3, USAG gymnastics specifies categories for how to apply to deduction. Insufficient artistry is a general, or overall, deduction that is applied at the end of the routine.On the meetcritique platform, these deductions are listed after the routine ends.
USAG Compulsory Routines (Levels 1-5)
- Up to -0.15: Quality of movement to reflect the style of the choreography
- Up to -0.15: Quality of expression (i.e. projection, focus)
USAG Optional Routines (all Xcel and Levels 6-10)
- Up to -0.1: Lack of variety in choreography (poses, phrases, connections)
- Up to -0.1: Quality of gymnast’s movements to reflect her Personal Style
- Up to -0.1: Quality of Expression (i.e. projection, focus)
Explanation: On beam and floor routines, judges are assessing the performance quality of the routines. In USAG Compulsory Levels 1-5, the beam and floor routines are pre-scripted, therefore, deductions for lack of artistry are limited to two categories. In optionals, routines are constructed by the coach and gymnast so a third category – variety in choreography – is assessed as part of artistry.
Tips for showing artistry in USAG compulsory routines (Levels 1-5):
- Quality of movement to reflect style of choreography – Gymnasts should perform the style of movement as written. For example, some poses should be completed with sharp movements while others are soft
- Quality of expression – Gymnasts should look up and out beyond the floor exercise/balance beam to connect with the audience. This may also include facial expressions to convey an emotion to the audience that matches the choreography or music
Tips for showing artistry in USAG optional routines (all Xcel and Levels 6-10):
- Lack of variety in choreography (poses, phrases, connections) – Gymnasts should show originality and creativity in choreography. Gymnasts may incur a deduction if choreography includes repetitive movements or poses. Unchoreographed, or extra, steps into a corner before a tumbling pass, or backwards steps/adjustments on the beam before a dismount will incur a deduction for lack of variety in choreography.
- Quality of gymnast’s movements to reflect her Personal Style – Gymnasts should show their personality during their beam and floor routines. Gymnasts uncomfortable with their choreography will incur a deduction for choreography not reflecting her personal style.
- Quality of Expression – Gymnasts should look up and out beyond the floor exercise/balance beam to connect with the audience. This may also include facial expressions to convey an emotion to the audience that matches the choreography or music