What is a "Poor Posture" deduction in gymnastics?
The "Poor Posture" deduction is taken for shoulders not back, head not neutral, poor presentation. The USAG Development Program code sets it at up to 0.10 on dance elements, and up to 0.30 for posture across the whole routine.
Posture in the dance or transition moments wasn't crisp.
What it costs
Under the USAG Development Program code, poor posture is up to 0.10 on dance elements, and up to 0.30 for posture across the whole routine. Judges scale it by how noticeable the error was.
| Deduction | Severity | Typical value | Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poor Posture / Presentation | Small | −0.10 | Balance Beam, Floor Exercise |
Poor Posture / Presentation: USAG DP: up to 0.10 on dance elements; up to 0.30 for posture across the whole routine
These are typical values used for practice feedback. Official values come from the code your meet is judged under: USA Gymnastics — Rules & Policies, FIG Code of Points.
Where it shows up
Events: Balance Beam, Floor Exercise.
Skills where poor posture is common:
- Step-On MountBalance Beam
How to fix it
Dance and carriage drills with mirror work to sharpen presentation and posture.
Muscles involved
Primary
- Upper Back: Trapezius and rhomboids for posture, handstand stability, and bar work
- Core: Abdominals and deep stabilizers for body tension and hollow/arch positions
Secondary
- Shoulders: Deltoids and rotator cuff for handstands, casts, and overhead positions
- Lower Back: Erector spinae for back extension, arch positions, and spinal stability
Drills that help
Related deductions
Common questions
- What is a "Poor Posture" deduction in gymnastics?
- Shoulders not back, head not neutral, poor presentation. It falls under the form category of deductions.
- How many tenths is the poor posture deduction?
- Under the USAG Development Program code, the poor posture deduction is up to 0.10 on dance elements, and up to 0.30 for posture across the whole routine; the judge scales it by how noticeable it was. Official values come from the USAG or FIG code your meet uses.
- Why do judges take the poor posture deduction?
- Carriage and presentation are an artistry component that compounds across the routine.
- How can my gymnast stop getting the poor posture deduction?
- Dance and carriage drills with mirror work to sharpen presentation and posture.
- Which events is the poor posture deduction called on?
- In Stickd's rule set, the poor posture deduction applies on Balance Beam and Floor Exercise.
- Which skills commonly get the poor posture deduction?
- Stickd's skill data links the poor posture deduction to 1 skill, including Step-On Mount (Balance Beam).
- What drills help fix the poor posture deduction?
- Standard Stickd drills that target the poor posture deduction include Beam Walking & Relevé Balance, Pointed Toe & Foot Articulation, Arm Swing Control Exercises, and Beam Arabesque & Scale Holds.
Get the deduction cheat-sheet
A plain-English reference to the most common deductions, straight to your inbox.
We’ll email you the cheat-sheet and occasional Stickd updates. Unsubscribe anytime.