Girls 4 years old and up
Gymnastics Canada adopted the USAG Development Program (formerly known as the JO program) created in the USA for use in the Provinces and Territories in July 2015. The USAG Development Program was created with the belief that all female athletes, regardless of their potential, must have a solid foundation of basic skills in order to advance safely. The program allows the gymnasts to advance at their own pace, competing in more than one level in a year, if they so choose.
There are 10 levels. Each level has required elements of difficulty and composition. All routines are scored from a possible 10.00.
- LEARN THE BASICS: Levels 1 & 2 are compulsory routines with set choreography and music. They allow gymnasts to develop good and strong basics and is an introduction to competition. Level 1 & 2 use a Gold/Silver/Bronze scoring system for all athletes. Athletes train 4-8 hours per week and some will compete at 3-4 local meets.
- COMPULSORIES: Levels 3-5 continue to use compulsory routines and choreography. These levels are progressive and build upon the skills required at the previous level. Level 5 requires excellent basics and is meant to deepen the athlete’s technical proficiency. This is an excellent preparation for athletes going toward the higher provincial or national competitive programs. Levels 3-5 will use a Gold/Silver/Bronze scoring system for any athletes under 7 years old and a ranking scoring system for all athletes 7 years and older. Athletes train 8-16 hours per week and compete at 4-6 meets within BC.
- OPTIONALS: Levels 6-10 are competitive programs using optional routines. These levels have difficulty restrictions where the requirements become progressively more difficult. Composition, including artistry will be evaluated in Levels 8-10. Levels 6-10 use a ranking scoring system for all athletes in all age categories. Athletes train 16-20 hours per week and compete at 5+ meets within Canada