Each optional event in USA Gymnastics lists Special Requirements (SRs). These are specific kinds of skills the routine must include, such as a cast to handstand or a salto dismount. The 2026–30 event charts say to deduct 0.50 from the Start Value for each missing SR. A routine can look complete from the stands and still miss an SR, because the skill was there but didn’t meet the requirement’s definition.
What an SR is
A Special Requirement isn’t “do something hard.” It’s “show this type of skill.” For example, the Level 8 bars chart asks for:
- One cast to handstand
- Two B elements: one with flight (or a B with at least a 180° turn), and one 360° clear circling element from specific groups
- A salto dismount, minimum A
Other events and levels have their own lists. Your coach has them. (Source: USAG 2026–30 Event Rules Charts.)
Why a routine can “look complete” and still miss one
Hypothetical: the cast looks close to handstand but doesn’t reach it. Or the turn on a skill comes up short of the required degree. The skill happened, but it didn’t fulfill the requirement as written, so 0.50 comes off the Start Value. Per the charts, one element can fulfill more than one SR unless the chart says otherwise. A routine can therefore be built tightly, and losing one skill can cost more than you’d expect.
How SRs add up with everything else
Start Value is built from value parts (difficulty), SRs (0.50 each), and at Levels 8–10, Composition Credit and Bonus. See our Value Parts and Composition Credit guides for those pieces.
Can a missed SR be reviewed?
For Development Program optionals, USAG’s 2026–27 Rules & Policies list “Awarding of Start Value” among the valid reasons a coach may file an inquiry. At State Championships and above, the Meet Referee may allow a panel to review video to check whether Special Requirements were fulfilled. Parents don’t file these; coaches do. (Source: USAG 2026–27 Rules & Policies.)
After the meet
Ask the coach: “Was every SR credited?” If you film where your meet allows, practice video can help you both see whether a cast or turn reached the requirement.
FAQ
- How much is a missing Special Requirement?
- 0.50 off the Start Value, per USAG's 2026–30 charts.
- Can one skill count for two SRs?
- Yes, unless the chart specifies otherwise.
- Who can ask the judges to look again?
- The coach, through the meet's inquiry process.
Rules checked against USA Gymnastics 2026–30 event charts and 2026–27 Rules & Policies on 2026-10-16. Confirm with your coach.