Limited spots available—Sign up now!
Flexible Competitive Opportunities for Aspiring Gymnasts
The Xcel Gymnastics Program is a national competitive program designed to provide a flexible, rewarding, and inclusive experience for gymnasts of all levels. It offers customized routines, reduced training hours, and opportunities for competition, making it an excellent alternative to the Development Program.
A Competitive Pathway with More Flexibility
The Xcel Gymnastics Program was introduced by USA Gymnastics (USAG) in 2013 to expand competitive opportunities for gymnasts outside the traditional Junior Olympic (JO)—now called the Development Program. It was created to:
1) Allow more gymnasts to compete without the time demands of high-level gymnastics.
2) Offer cost-effective training options for families.
3) Give gymnasts the freedom to design their own routines rather than follow strict compulsory skills
Today, Xcel has thousands of participants nationwide, with competitions held at local, state, and regional levels.
A Competitive Alternative to the Development Program
Unlike the Development Program, where gymnasts must master compulsory skills before advancing, Xcel allows for customized routines while still meeting minimum skill requirements. Gymnasts can progress based on ability rather than a fixed level system.
The Xcel Program has six divisions,
each requiring specific skills:
Bronze: Entry-level, emphasizing basic skills like cartwheels, handstands, and introductory beam work.
Silver: Introduces round-offs, handsprings, and more complex bar transitions.
Gold: Higher difficulty, focusing on connected tumbling passes and flight elements.
Platinum: Advanced elements, including back tucks, twisting vaults, and enhanced bar routines.
Diamond: The most advanced division, similar to JO Levels 6-7, requiring difficult skills and multiple flight elements.
Sapphire: Introduced in 2022 for gymnasts ready for elite-level routines but prefer the Xcel format.
Is Xcel Right for Your Child?
Pros
✅ Flexible Time Commitment – Gymnasts train 4-6 hours per week, allowing for school and other activities.
✅ Personalized Routines – Gymnasts can choose skills that showcase their strengths.
✅ Lower Cost – More affordable due to reduced training hours.
✅ Less Pressure – A fun and encouraging competitive environment.
✅ Opportunities for Late Starters – Ideal for older beginners who want to compete.
✅ College Pathway – Some higher-level Xcel gymnasts transition to NCAA Acrobatics & Tumbling teams.
Cons
❌ Limited College & Elite Opportunities – Not a direct pathway to NCAA or Elite gymnastics.
❌ Inconsistent Standards – Different gyms may have varying expectations.
❌ Fewer Meets Available – Some states have less frequent high-level Xcel meets.
❌ Lower Skill Progression Ceiling – Xcel focuses on fun and flexibility, but gymnasts may progress slower compared to JO/DP levels.
❌ Less Intensive Coaching – With fewer hours in the gym, gymnasts may not receive the same level of technical corrections and conditioning.
If she wants to compete in NCAA or elite gymnastics, the Development Program is better suited. If she wants competitive yet flexible gymnastics, Xcel is ideal.
Xcel requires fewer training hours, while the Development Program often demands 16-20+ hours per week.
Xcel allows for customized choreography and skills.
Xcel is more affordable than elite gymnastics.
Xcel allows for a well-rounded childhood with room for other sports and hobbies.
Steps to Get Started
Not all gyms have an Xcel team. Look for USAG-affiliated clubs.
Most gyms assess skills to determine starting division.
Learn about meet dates, costs, and travel requirements.
Xcel may require fewer hours, but consistent training is key.
Limited Time Only: $99 Consultation is FREE
Flipping Expectations. Inspiring Confidence. Redefining Futures.™
135 S Main St, Irving, TX 75060
469-242-1752
Programs | Testimonials | StrongGirls.com
A Competitive Pathway with More Flexibility
A Competitive Alternative to the Development Program
A Tiered System That Adapts to Each Gymnast's Strengths
The Xcel Program has six divisions, each requiring specific skills:
Is Xcel Right for Your Child?
Key Factors to Consider
If she wants to compete in NCAA or elite gymnastics, the Development Program is better suited. If she wants competitive yet flexible gymnastics, Xcel is ideal.
Xcel requires fewer training hours, while the Development Program often demands 16-20+ hours per week.
Xcel allows for customized choreography and skills.
Xcel is more affordable than elite gymnastics.
Xcel allows for a well-rounded childhood with room for other sports and hobbies.
Steps to Get Started
Not all gyms have an Xcel team. Look for USAG-affiliated clubs.
Most gyms assess skills to determine starting division.
Learn about meet dates, costs, and travel requirements.
Xcel may require fewer hours, but consistent training is key.
135 S Main St, Irving, TX 75060
469-242-1752
Programs | Testimonials | StrongGirls.com
Flipping Expectations. Inspiring Confidence. Redefining Futures.™
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
Youtube
TikTok