Gymnastics Levels Explained: USAG Development Program, Xcel & FIG
If your child has started gymnastics, you may have already heard terms like Level 3, Level 7, Xcel Gold, or Elite. But what do these gymnastics levels actually mean, and how do they fit together?
Understanding the gymnastics levels in the United States can be confusing, especially for parents who are new to competitive gymnastics.
If your child is just starting out, our Gymnastics for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know Before Starting guide is a great place to learn the basics before exploring competitive gymnastics.
The good news is that the system becomes much easier to understand once you know the difference between the main programs.
In the United States, USA Gymnastics (USAG) offers two major women’s artistic gymnastics competitive programs: the Development Program (DP) and the Xcel Program. Elite gymnastics follows a separate high-performance pathway, with international competitions governed by World Gymnastics (formerly known as FIG).
In this guide, you’ll learn how USAG gymnastics levels work, what makes Xcel different from the Development Program, how elite gymnastics fits into the picture, and what parents should consider when choosing a competitive path for their child.
Quick Answer: The USAG Development Program includes Levels 1–10. The Xcel Program includes Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Sapphire. Elite gymnastics is a separate high-performance pathway, not simply the next numbered level after Level 10.
Table of Contents
What Are the Gymnastics Levels in the USA?
Gymnastics levels help organize athletes according to skill requirements, competition rules, and developmental stages.
In women’s artistic gymnastics, USA Gymnastics offers two primary competitive programs:
Development Program (DP): A structured program with numbered levels, progressing from Level 1 through Level 10.
Xcel Program: An alternative competitive program with divisions named Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Sapphire.
These programs provide different ways for gymnasts to develop their skills and participate in competitions.
Elite gymnastics is a separate high-performance pathway. Athletes who qualify for elite competition follow the applicable USA Gymnastics qualification structure and World Gymnastics rules for international events.
Are Gymnastics Levels Based on Age?
Not entirely. Gymnastics levels are primarily associated with skill requirements, competitive rules, and athlete development.
Age requirements may apply to particular competitions or qualification pathways, but age alone does not determine a gymnast’s level.
Two gymnasts of the same age may compete in different programs or divisions based on their skills, experience, goals, and coaching plan.
1. USAG Development Program: Levels 1–10
The USA Gymnastics Development Program (DP), formerly known as the Junior Olympic (JO) program, is a structured competitive program designed to help gymnasts develop progressively more advanced skills.
It includes Levels 1 through 10.
The program emphasizes a foundation of basic skills and allows athletes to progress at their own pace. Levels 1–3 are developmental, Levels 4–5 are compulsory, and Levels 6–10 are optional.
USAG Gymnastics Levels at a Glance
| Levels | Program Segment | Main Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Levels 1–3 | Developmental | Fundamental skills and introductory competition |
| Levels 4–5 | Compulsory | Prescribed routines and consistent execution |
| Levels 6–10 | Optional | Individual routine construction within level requirements |
Levels 1–3 may be used as non-competitive, achievement-oriented programs or as introductory competitive programs. Therefore, it is not accurate to assume that every gymnast at these levels competes in the same way.
Levels 1–3: Building the Foundation
The first three levels focus on developing fundamental gymnastics skills, body positions, strength, flexibility, coordination, and basic apparatus techniques.
Depending on the gym, these levels may be used for pre-team development, introductory competition, or other developmental opportunities.
At this stage, the focus is on learning correct technique and developing safe, consistent movement patterns.
Parents should understand that moving quickly through the early levels is not necessarily the most important measure of progress. Building a strong foundation can help athletes prepare for more advanced skills.
Levels 4–5: Compulsory Gymnastics
Levels 4 and 5 are compulsory levels in the Development Program.
In compulsory gymnastics, athletes perform prescribed routines. Gymnasts at the same level follow standardized routine requirements rather than independently designing their entire routines.
This structure allows judges to evaluate athletes against established expectations.
Compulsory gymnastics emphasizes:
Correct technique and body alignment
Consistent execution
Strength and flexibility
Basic acrobatic and dance skills
Confidence performing in competition
Compulsory gymnastics is not just about learning new tricks. It is also about learning to perform skills with control, precision, and consistency.
Levels 6–10: Optional Gymnastics
Levels 6 through 10 are part of the optional program.
Unlike compulsory gymnastics, optional routines allow coaches and gymnasts to select and combine skills within the applicable rules.
Athletes must meet the skill, composition, and other requirements established for their level.
As gymnasts progress, they generally work toward more difficult skills, more complex combinations, and greater consistency across all four women’s artistic gymnastics events:
Vault
Uneven Bars
Balance Beam
Floor Exercise
Optional gymnastics allows routines to reflect an athlete’s individual abilities while still meeting specific competitive requirements.
Level 10 is the highest numbered level in the standard USAG Development Program. Athletes seeking elite competition may pursue a separate qualification pathway.
Rules note: USA Gymnastics has published a 2026–2030 Development Program Optional Code of Points. Always check the current rules for the applicable competitive season.
2. Xcel Gymnastics Program: Bronze to Sapphire
The USA Gymnastics Xcel Program is an alternative competitive program designed to provide gymnasts with opportunities to compete while allowing greater flexibility in skill selection and routine composition.
According to USA Gymnastics, Xcel is intended to accommodate gymnasts with varying abilities and levels of commitment, while emphasizing correct technique, form, performance, sportsmanship, teamwork, and enjoyment.
Xcel is still a competitive gymnastics program. Athletes must learn skills, meet division requirements, and prepare for competitions.
What Are the Xcel Gymnastics Levels?
The women’s Xcel Program includes six divisions:
| Xcel Division | General Position |
|---|---|
| Bronze | Entry division |
| Silver | Developing competitive skills |
| Gold | Intermediate competitive development |
| Platinum | More advanced skill development |
| Diamond | Advanced Xcel division |
| Sapphire | Highest Xcel division |
These descriptions are general and are not official skill equivalencies to the numbered Development Program levels.
Each division has its own rules and skill requirements. Xcel divisions do not correspond to DP levels through a simple one-to-one conversion chart.
What Makes Xcel Different from the Development Program?
The main difference is the structure of the programs.
In the Development Program, Levels 4–5 use prescribed compulsory routines, while Levels 6–10 follow optional requirements.
Xcel provides greater flexibility in routine composition and skill selection within the rules of each division.
This flexibility may allow some athletes to participate in competitive gymnastics while balancing school, other sports, family activities, or other interests.
However, training hours, competition schedules, and costs are determined by individual gyms and teams. Xcel should not automatically be assumed to require fewer hours or cost less at every gym.
Is Xcel Easier Than DP?
There is no universal answer.
Xcel and DP are structured differently, so comparing them as simply “easy” or “hard” can be misleading.
Xcel may offer more flexibility in routine composition and training commitments, depending on the gym and division. However, Xcel gymnasts still need strength, flexibility, technique, and consistent execution to compete successfully.
A better question for parents is:
Which program fits my child’s current skills, interests, and long-term goals?
Is Xcel a Good Option for Competitive Gymnasts?
Xcel can be a suitable option for athletes who want to compete while maintaining a training structure that fits their individual needs.
The program’s flexibility can be helpful for families balancing gymnastics with school, other activities, and personal commitments.
The best way to evaluate Xcel is to ask the coach about the division’s requirements, training schedule, competition opportunities, and how the program supports the athlete’s development.
3. What Is FIG / World Gymnastics?
FIG stands for Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique, the international gymnastics governing body now known as World Gymnastics.
World Gymnastics establishes international rules and technical standards for major international competitions, including the Olympic Games and World Championships.
Elite gymnasts competing internationally follow the applicable World Gymnastics rules.
It is important to understand that FIG is not another USAG level after Level 10.
Instead, it provides the international competition framework under which qualified elite athletes compete.
In the United States, athletes pursuing elite gymnastics must follow the applicable USA Gymnastics qualification and selection processes.
Not every Level 10 gymnast pursues elite gymnastics, and reaching Level 10 does not automatically qualify an athlete for elite competition.
4. What Is Elite Gymnastics?
Elite gymnastics is a high-performance pathway for athletes who pursue advanced national and international competition.
In the United States, elite athletes participate in a separate qualification and competition structure administered by USA Gymnastics.
Elite gymnastics involves advanced technical skills, physical preparation, consistency, and the ability to perform under competitive pressure.
Training schedules vary considerably depending on the athlete, coaching environment, goals, and stage of development.
Some athletes pursue elite gymnastics with the goal of qualifying for national teams or international competitions.
Others focus on the Development Program, Xcel, or college gymnastics.
Elite gymnastics is one possible pathway, not a requirement for every competitive gymnast.
A gymnast can have a meaningful and successful gymnastics career without pursuing elite competition.
5. Development Program vs. Xcel vs. Elite: What’s the Difference?
The following table provides a simplified comparison of the main competitive pathways in women’s artistic gymnastics.
| Feature | Development Program (DP) | Xcel Program | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | Numbered Levels 1–10 | Bronze through Sapphire | Separate high-performance pathway |
| Routine Format | Compulsory at Levels 4–5; optional at Levels 6–10 | Flexible routine composition within division rules | Advanced routines under applicable elite rules |
| Competition Focus | Progressive skill development and standardized requirements | Competitive participation with flexibility | High-performance national and international competition |
| Training Commitment | Varies by level and gym | Varies by division and gym | Often substantial; varies by athlete |
| College Opportunities | Some athletes pursue college gymnastics | Opportunities depend on college program and recruiting requirements | Some elite athletes also compete in college |
| Governing Rules | USA Gymnastics | USA Gymnastics | USAG qualification structure and applicable World Gymnastics rules |
This comparison is intended as a general guide. Training requirements, competition opportunities, and qualification standards may change.
6. Can a Gymnast Switch Between DP and Xcel?
Yes. Gymnasts may transition between the Development Program and Xcel, depending on their skills, goals, eligibility, and the policies of their gym.
For example, an athlete may move from DP to Xcel if the Xcel structure better fits their needs.
Another athlete may move from Xcel to DP if they want to pursue a different competitive structure and meet the applicable requirements.
However, switching programs does not always mean that an athlete will enter at an equivalent level.
The two programs have different rules, and the appropriate placement depends on the athlete’s skills and current USA Gymnastics requirements.
Parents should discuss the decision with their child’s coach before making a change.
7. How to Choose the Right Gymnastics Program for Your Child
Choosing a gymnastics program involves more than comparing levels.
Parents should consider their child’s interests, skill development, available training time, and the team’s competitive environment.
If your child hasn’t started classes yet, read our guide on what to expect in beginner gymnastics classes to understand how beginner programs work and what children typically learn.
What Does My Child Enjoy About Gymnastics?
Some children enjoy frequent competitions and working toward increasingly difficult skills.
Others prefer a more flexible schedule while still participating in competitive gymnastics.
Understanding what motivates your child can help you identify a program that supports long-term participation.
How Much Training Time Is Realistic for Our Family?
Training schedules vary between gyms and programs.
Ask the coach how many hours per week the team typically trains, how often athletes compete, and whether additional training is expected during the season.
Consider school, family activities, transportation, and recovery time.
For a more detailed breakdown of training frequency, read our guide: How Many Hours a Week Should a Gymnast Train?. It explains how training commitments can differ between recreational and competitive gymnastics.
What Skills Does My Child Need to Develop Next?
Rather than focusing only on the next level, ask the coach which skills and fundamentals your child needs to master.
A good development plan should consider technique, strength, flexibility, consistency, and safe progression.
What Are the Gym’s Expectations?
Different gyms may have different team structures, training schedules, competition calendars, and financial commitments.
Ask about:
Monthly tuition and additional fees
Competition and travel costs
Team practice schedules
Skill and level placement
Opportunities to change programs
How progress is evaluated
These details can help you understand whether a program is a practical fit for your family.
8. Frequently Asked Questions About Gymnastics Levels
What Are the Gymnastics Levels in the USA?
In women’s artistic gymnastics, the USA Gymnastics Development Program includes Levels 1–10. The Xcel Program includes Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Sapphire divisions.
Elite gymnastics follows a separate qualification and competition pathway.
What Is the Highest USAG Gymnastics Level?
Level 10 is the highest numbered level in the standard USAG Development Program.
Elite gymnastics is a separate pathway, not simply Level 11.
Is Xcel Lower Than DP?
Xcel and DP are different competitive programs. Their divisions and levels do not correspond through a simple one-to-one ranking system.
The appropriate program depends on the athlete’s skills, goals, and eligibility.
Can You Go from Xcel to Level 10?
An athlete may transition from Xcel to the Development Program if they meet the applicable requirements.
However, there is no automatic conversion from an Xcel division to a specific DP level. Placement should be discussed with the coach and evaluated under current rules.
What Age Should a Child Start Competitive Gymnastics?
There is no single age at which every child should begin competitive gymnastics.
The appropriate starting point depends on the child’s development, interest, experience, and the gym’s program.
Some children enter competitive programs at a young age, while others begin later.
If you’re still wondering when your child should begin, explore our guide on the best age to start gymnastics, which explains how age, experience, and individual goals can influence the decision.
Does a Gymnast Have to Reach Level 10 to Compete in College?
No. Level 10 is not a universal requirement for college gymnastics.
College opportunities depend on the college program, recruiting process, athlete’s skills, competitive experience, and applicable eligibility requirements.
Some athletes pursue college gymnastics through different competitive backgrounds.
Is Elite Gymnastics Required to Become a Professional Gymnast?
No. Elite gymnastics is a pathway for athletes pursuing high-performance national and international competition, but it is not the only way to build a meaningful career in gymnastics.
Coaching, judging, collegiate competition, and other gymnastics-related careers offer different opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Gymnastics Levels
Gymnastics levels help organize athlete development, competition requirements, and opportunities for progression.
The USAG Development Program offers a structured progression from Levels 1 through 10. The Xcel Program provides an alternative competitive structure with greater flexibility in routine composition. Elite gymnastics offers a separate high-performance pathway for athletes pursuing national and international competition.
For parents, the most important thing is to understand that there is no single gymnastics path that is right for every child.
A gymnast’s progress should be evaluated through skill development, consistency, confidence, enjoyment, and readiness for the next challenge.
Instead of focusing only on the next level, work with your child’s coach to understand what your child is learning, what goals are realistic, and which program best supports their development.
Gymnastics is a long-term journey. The right environment can help athletes build not only skills, but also discipline, confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for the sport.
New to the sport? Continue exploring Gymnastics Guide for practical advice on getting started with gymnastics, understanding training expectations, and supporting your child’s development.
About the Author
Andrey Sovenko — Former Russian National Team Gymnast & Gymnastics Coach
Andrey Sovenko is a former member of the Russian National Gymnastics Team (2003–2008) and an experienced gymnastics coach and club owner.
He coached gymnastics in the United States from 2014 to 2026 and founded and operated a gymnastics facility from 2016 to 2023, serving approximately 500 students with a team of 10 employees.
Through GymnasticsGuide.us, Andrey shares practical gymnastics knowledge to help parents and athletes better understand the sport, develop skills, and navigate the gymnastics journey. Learn more about Andrey Sovenko and his gymnastics background.
Official Gymnastics Resources
For the most current rules and requirements, consult these official organizations:
Rules and qualification requirements may change. Always consult the current official materials for the applicable competitive season.
