With my years of teaching gymnastics, I know how much effort goes into creating a routine that stands out in competitive acrobatics. Athletes pour their hearts into perfecting skills, while coaches work tirelessly to refine every detail. But here’s the truth: performing well isn’t just about big flips and impressive tricks—it’s also about understanding what judges want.
Judges are trained to spot every movement, assess technical precision, and evaluate artistry. They’re not just focused on how difficult a move is but how well it’s executed and how captivating the entire routine feels. Knowing what they prioritize can help you approach competitions with confidence.
In this guide, I’ll explain exactly what judges look for, share personal coaching insights, and offer tips to help athletes and teams create performances that leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re just starting or aiming for the top, this information will help you shine.
Judges have one of the toughest jobs in competitive acrobatics. They evaluate routines in a fair and objective way, often under tight time constraints. Their role is to score routines based on specific criteria, which ensures consistency across competitions.
The three main areas judges focus on are:
It’s important to remember that judges are also human. They appreciate routines that are not only technically strong but also visually appealing and enjoyable to watch. When athletes take the time to present a polished performance, it leaves a positive impression.
Let’s dive deeper into the specific categories that make or break a routine:
Difficulty is about showcasing advanced skills and combinations. Judges reward routines that push boundaries while maintaining control. For example, a double layout or a one-arm handstand demonstrates high-level difficulty.
However, the difficulty isn’t just about individual skills. The way skills are combined and connected plays a big role. Linking elements smoothly creates a seamless flow, which adds to the overall difficulty score. For instance, transitioning directly from a back handspring to a tuck shows advanced planning and execution.
As a coach, I always emphasize practising difficult moves under controlled conditions. It’s better to perform a slightly simpler move well than to attempt something overly challenging and risk deductions.
Execution is where many routines gain—or lose—points. Judges are watching for straight lines, pointed toes, and proper posture. Even the smallest errors, like bent knees or uneven arm placement, can lead to deductions.
Some common execution mistakes include:
One of the drills I use with my athletes is video playback. By recording practice sessions, we can identify small errors and correct them before competition day. This approach builds confidence and ensures cleaner performances.
Artistry is where routines come to life. Judges look for performances that tell a story, evoke emotion, or showcase personality. This includes the use of music, choreography, and expressions.
For example, a routine set to dramatic music should include bold, powerful movements that match the tone. On the other hand, a light, cheerful routine might use playful gestures and dynamic transitions to keep the audience engaged.
Artistry also extends to presentation. Smiling, maintaining eye contact, and showing confidence make a routine more enjoyable to watch. I often tell my athletes, “If you believe in your routine, the judges will too.”
Certain skills always catch a judge’s eye when performed flawlessly. Here are a few that consistently score well:
Judges appreciate routines that blend technical skill with artistic creativity. The goal is to keep them engaged from start to finish.
Even the best athletes can make mistakes under pressure. Here are some frequent errors and tips to avoid them:
One of my athletes used to struggle with landings, often stepping out of bounds. We added specific landing drills to her practice routine, focusing on absorbing impact and stabilizing her position. Over time, her scores improved significantly.
Want to wow the judges? Here are some actionable tips:
Confidence is key. If you approach your routine with self-assurance, it will show in your performance.
Scoring systems in gymnastics and acrobatics are designed to evaluate performances based on skill, precision, and presentation. While they vary slightly between disciplines, the core elements are similar.
Difficulty Score (D-Score):
This reflects the complexity of the routine, including the number and difficulty of skills performed. Higher scores are awarded for routines with challenging elements and transitions.
Execution Score (E-Score):
The E-score evaluates the cleanliness and precision of the performance. Starting from a perfect score, deductions are made for errors like bent knees, incomplete movements, or unsteady landings. A well-executed routine earns a higher E-score.
Artistry Score (A-Score):
In disciplines that emphasize creativity, such as acrobatics, artistry is scored separately. This includes elements like choreography, expression, and the ability to tell a story through movement. Artistic routines can significantly enhance the overall score.
Penalties and Final Score:
Additional deductions may be applied for infractions such as stepping out of bounds, taking extra steps, or exceeding time limits. The final score is typically calculated by adding the D-score and E-score, and in some cases, the A-score, with penalties subtracted as needed.
Overall, the scoring system rewards routines that balance technical difficulty, flawless execution, and engaging presentation, encouraging athletes to deliver well-rounded performances.
As a coach, my role is to guide athletes toward their goals. Here’s how I approach preparation:
Success is a team effort. When coaches and athletes collaborate, great things happen.
As acrobatics evolves, so do judging standards. New skills and innovative routines continue to raise the bar. Judges are increasingly valuing creativity and originality alongside technical excellence.
It is crucial to stay informed about trends. Watching high-level competitions, analyzing top-scoring routines, and attending workshops can provide valuable insights.
Take deep breaths to calm your body and mind, and focus on positive self-talk to build confidence. Visualize yourself completing the routine to create a sense of preparedness. Stay focused on what you can control, like your movements and timing.
Practice with a metronome to develop consistent timing and count movements aloud during routines. Watching recorded performances helps spot any misalignment that needs fixing. Regularly practising together builds trust and improves group rhythm.
Costumes don’t directly impact scores but can influence overall presentation. A well-fitted, non-distracting costume complements the routine and helps with visual appeal. Avoid costumes that restrict movement or draw attention away from the performance.
Routines should be updated when new skills are mastered, or competition trends shift. Staying current ensures your performance remains fresh and engaging to judges. Always prioritize a balance of difficulty and clean execution in new routines.
Competing in acrobatics is about more than just skills—it’s about creating a performance that resonates with judges and the audience. By focusing on clean execution, creative artistry, and a balanced routine, athletes can set themselves apart.
As someone who has coached many athletes through competitions, I know the journey is challenging but rewarding. With dedication, practice, and a clear understanding of judging criteria, you can achieve your goals.
Remember, every competition is a chance to grow. Learn from feedback, celebrate your progress, and keep striving for excellence. You’ve got what it takes to impress the judges—now go out there and show them!
