What is Rhythmic Gymnastics’ Code of Points?

On a previous article, we have introduced briefly how rhythmic gymnastics is scored. For an in-depth understanding of it, we are going to tackle the scoring system once again, but now more detailed.

According to Wikipedia, the Code of Points (CoP) and the entire gymnastics scoring system were completely overhauled in 2006. This change is a result of the judging controversy at 2004 Olympics in Athens, which brought the reliability and objectivity of the scoring system into question. After this change, the CoP has faced much opposition, but the leadership of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) who drafted it remained committed to the new Code.

Additionally, it is worth noting that there is no unified, international CoP as every oversight organization like FIG, NCAA Gymnastics, and most national gymnastics federations are designing their own unique Code. FIG recently just released their 2017-2020 Code of Points for Rhythmic Gymnastics and for people who are new to the sport, you can read it and familiarize yourself with how the scoring works.

However, for those of us who might not easily pick up the terms and technicality of the document, we have prepared a list in simple terms of what to look for when we want to judge a gymnast for ourselves.

What Juries Are Looking For

We all know that the Code of Points is complicated, but spectators can still identify great routines without knowing every nuance of it. When watching a routine, juries look for:

1) Routine: Of course, a great gymnast would perform a routine that looks different from the rest while at the same time not looking like a combination of difficult tricks one after another. It is important in gymnastics for the whole dance or routine to look fluid and smooth, containing risky throws and catches, complicated choreography, and extreme flexibility skills.

2) Flexibility: This might just be one of the most important skills a gymnast must exhibit. Rhythmic gymnasts must be able to perform a minimum of a 180-degree split on split leaps and jumps. Often times, they even go much further to demonstrate flexibility in her back, legs and shoulders.

3) Dance Composition: A gymnast’s choreography is very closely monitored, as well as the music used. The movements must be intricate and the music should not only be used simply as background music. Both of these aspects are scored accordingly, after all, rhythmic gymnastics is still dancing with the apparatus.

4) Apparatus: A gymnast’s true skill reflects on her handling of the equipment, aside from her flexibility. The apparatus must be kept moving and she should look like she has a complete control of it. Dropping, mishandling, or using the extra apparatus put on the floor before the start of a routine all has corresponding deductions.

5) Execution: Execution is so important that it is focused and scored by six juries. Good forms must be demonstrated to gain higher points. During leaps, a gymnast’s toes should be pointed, legs straight, and the tightness should be maintained in her body.

Basically, that is all we need to know to learn how rhythmic gymnastics is scored. Be the first one to read it by regularly visiting our blogs and official social media sites. Learn gymnastics from the best sports academy in Singapore, enroll today at Bianka Panova Sport and Art Academy! Join us and learn gymnastics for kids with us!